CHINA

UK Citizens Gain Visa-Free China Access

As of February 2026, UK citizens can enter mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, short business trips or family visits. This change is part of China’s broader short-stay visa-exemption policy that already applies to a list of countries. The visa-free entry helps simplify travel planning and encourages cultural, leisure and business exchanges between the UK and China. Travelers must still meet normal passport and entry requirements and individual travel purposes should align with the allowed stay category. While this visa-free arrangement is currently valid through December 31, 2026, travelers should always check for the latest entry rules before booking, as immigration policies and implementation details can evolve.

Visa-Free Travel to China for Canadians Coming Soon

During an official visit to Beijing in mid-January 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with President Xi Jinping to discuss strengthening relations between Canada and China. Talks focused on expanding cooperation in key areas such as energy, trade, agriculture, innovation, security and cultural exchange.

A key outcome of the visit was China’s commitment to grant Canadian passport holders visa-free entry to mainland China for up to 30 days under its existing short-stay entry policy. Once formally implemented, Canada will join a growing list of countries whose citizens can visit China without a visa for tourism, short business travel or family visits. The visa-free arrangement is expected to be valid through December 31, 2026, although Chinese authorities have not yet announced the exact start date.

China Southern Launches New Guangzhou Flight

China Southern Airlines is expanding its Australia–China route network with enhanced services to Guangzhou (CAN). From March 2026, the carrier will operate year-round flights between Brisbane and Guangzhou, doubling direct connectivity and offering twice-daily nonstop services, making it easier for passengers to travel between Queensland and China.

In addition to Brisbane, China Southern has already boosted frequencies on other Australia–Guangzhou routes, including double-daily services from Melbourne and plans for Darwin–Guangzhou direct flights, reflecting growing demand for travel and trade between Australia and China.