China Signals Willingness to Consider Visa-Free Entry for UK Citizens

China’s visa policy regarding UK citizens is under review following discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in early 2026. The topic is relevant as it could affect travel arrangements and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Starmer, President Xi stated that China is willing to "actively consider" allowing UK citizens to enter China without a visa. The two leaders also discussed the possible timing for the start of such a visa-free arrangement, according to statements made after their meeting.

Currently, China grants visa-free entry for up to 30 days to citizens of many countries, particularly in Europe, but the UK is not included in this group. As of mid-2025, China’s visa-free policy covered about 74 countries, while UK citizens remained eligible only for a 10-day transit visa exemption.

China extended its visa-free entry policy for eligible countries through December 31, 2026, and added Sweden to the list during this period. Despite these updates, the UK continued to be excluded from the full 30-day visa-free entry scheme.

What the numbers show

• China’s visa-free policy covered around 74 countries as of mid-2025
• UK citizens are eligible for a 10-day transit visa-free policy, not the 30-day scheme
• The current visa-free policy for eligible countries is extended until December 31, 2026

Efforts to include the UK in China’s visa waiver programme have been ongoing. British Airways has been actively engaging with both the UK and Chinese governments to advocate for the UK’s participation in the 30-day visa-free entry scheme.

The Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways stated that the airline is working with the relevant authorities in both countries to secure the UK’s inclusion in China’s visa waiver programme. This reflects the airline’s interest in facilitating easier travel for UK citizens to China.

Industry reaction

British Airways has confirmed its ongoing efforts to promote the UK’s inclusion in China’s visa-free scheme. The airline has communicated its position to both the UK and Chinese governments and continues to support changes to the current policy.

British Airways’ engagement with officials highlights the interest of the travel sector in expanding visa-free access for UK citizens visiting China. The airline’s statements indicate a procedural approach to influencing policy developments in this area.

As discussions continue between the UK and China, any changes to the visa policy would be subject to official confirmation and implementation by the respective governments. The situation remains under consideration following the recent high-level talks.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.