Travelling to China will continue to be a little easier on the wallet. China is keeping its lower visa fees for longer. What started as a one-year move to make travel cheaper is now officially extended until December 31, 2026.
The confirmation came last week, giving travellers and businesses more time to plan trips without worrying about higher visa costs returning anytime soon.
China Visa Fees Stay 25% Lower
Here is what this extension means in simple terms. If you need a Chinese visa, you will continue to pay less visa fees than before.
The reduced fees apply to single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry visas. Overall, the prices are about 25 per cent lower than the standard visa fees that were in place before 2023. That can make a real difference, especially for frequent travellers or business visitors.
Announced by Chinese Embassies Worldwide
Chinese embassies across the globe have confirmed the extension. This includes diplomatic missions in countries such as France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Saudi Arabia.
The rules have not changed. Eligibility stays the same. Application steps stay the same. Only the lower fees continue.
Fingerprint Exemption Also Stays in Place
In addition to the lower visa fees for travellers, China also extends its fingerprint exemption for short-term visas until the end of 2026. Eligible applicants will not need to give fingerprints when applying for a short-term Chinese visa. The stay must be 180 days or less.
This applies to:
- Tourist visas
- Business visas
- Family visit visas
- Transit visas
Together, these two steps reduce paperwork, save time, and make the visa process feel less heavy for short stays.
A Quick Note on Extra Service Fees
It is worth noting here that the discounted fees apply only to the official visa fee charged by embassies and consulates.
In many countries, applications go through visa application centres. These centres charge their own service fees. Those extra charges still apply and have not been reduced. Travellers should factor this in when budgeting.
Part of a Bigger Push to Welcome Visitors Back
China is also keeping its unilateral 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of 45 countries until December 31, 2026.
When you look at everything together, the message is clear. China wants travel to be easier, more predictable, and more affordable again.
For anyone planning a trip in 2026, this extension removes one more question mark from the process.
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