Russia and China Open Doors: Visa-Free Travel Pact Unveiled

Russia offers visa-free entry to Chinese citizens for various categories, reflecting a reciprocal gesture by China. Signed by President Putin, this move strengthens ties with China amid Western sanctions. This agreement remains effective until 2026 but excludes Chinese long-term students, workers, and laborers.

In a significant diplomatic development, President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing visa-free entry for many categories of Chinese citizens into Russia. This includes tourists, businesspeople, academics, artists, and athletes, permitting stays up to 30 days.

The initiative mirrors China's recent decision to extend similar privileges to Russian citizens, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between Moscow and Beijing. The bilateral agreement, set to last until 2026, comes amid Russia's increasing economic dependence on China following Western sanctions.

However, the decree does not encompass Chinese migrant workers, long-term students, or those in logistics and transport sectors seeking to travel to Russia. Beijing's Foreign Ministry remarked that the visa-free offer for Russians would remain effective for one year, starting September 15.

(With inputs from agencies.)