Russia introduces visa-free entry for China
Chinese citizens can now enter Russia visa-free for up to 30 days until September 2026.
On 1 December, Russia introduced a temporary visa-free regime for citizens of China. The decree, signed by President Vladimir Putin, allows Chinese visitors to enter Russia without a visa until 14 September 2026.
Under the new rules, Chinese citizens may stay in Russia for up to 30 days for a guest, business, or tourist visit, as well as for participation in scientific, cultural, economic, and sporting events. Visa-free entry also applies to transit travel through Russian territory. Entry is permitted on the basis of a regular Chinese passport.
The decree does not apply to travellers arriving in Russia for work, journalism, studies, long-term residence, or to drivers of international freight transport and their crews, as well as interpreters accompanying them.
China introduced a similar visa-free regime for Russian citizens with ordinary passports on 15 September, allowing stays of up to 30 days.
Together, these measures simplify travel between the two countries and strengthen tourism and cultural exchange.