China Waives Visa Requirements for Slovenia and Greece Citizens

In a significant move aimed at bolstering diplomatic and economic ties, China has announced the abolition of visa requirements for citizens of Slovenia and Greece. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the announcement during the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York, signaling a pivotal step in promoting tourism, business, and familial exchanges between the countries.

On September 25, 2024, Wang Yi met with Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister Tanja Fajon and Greek Foreign Minister Georgios Gerapetritis. During these meetings, Wang Yi declared that citizens from Slovenia and Greece will be able to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 15 days. This new policy is set to foster stronger bilateral opportunities for mutual growth.

By facilitating easier travel, China aims to deepen mutual trust and cooperation with Slovenia and Greece. Wang Yi emphasized that the move would significantly enhance economic cooperation and other bilateral exchanges. He also extended China’s support for Slovenia’s role as the rotating chair of the UN Security Council.

Alongside Slovenia and Greece, citizens from Denmark and Cyprus will also benefit from the visa-free entry to China. This is an extension of the earlier policy changes announced this month, which included Norway. The broader initiative strives to enhance China’s connections with multiple European countries.

China’s recent visa-free policies reflect a continuing trend. Since December 1, 2023, citizens from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Malaysia have enjoyed 15-day visa-free stays in China. The list expanded in March 2024 to include Belgium, Ireland, Austria, Hungary, and Luxembourg, and again in July 2024 to incorporate Poland, Australia, and New Zealand.

This policy is anticipated to boost China’s tourism industry, which is recovering to pre-pandemic levels. Business ventures are expected to thrive as the policy simplifies short-term business trips, making it easier for business representatives to negotiate and form partnerships with Chinese enterprises.

For nationals who still require a visa, China has made the process considerably simpler. The need for appointments for visa submissions has been abolished, consular fees reduced, and the requirement for fingerprinting waived until December 31, 2025. These modifications are part of broader efforts to make travel to China more accessible.

This announcement spotlights China’s ongoing efforts to enhance diplomatic and economic ties with European nations, fostering international cooperation and amicable travel experiences.