China offers 30-day visa-free access to citizens of 74 countries, but Pakistan misses out

By Imran Malik, Webdesk | July 9, 2025

China has expanded its visa-free policy to cover 74 countries, allowing tourists to stay for up to 30 days without a visa in one of the most significant moves to boost post-pandemic tourism, economic growth, and cultural influence.

Despite the much-publicized narrative of a friendship “deeper than the ocean and sweeter than honey,” Pakistan has been left out of China’s newly announced list of 74 countries eligible for 30-day visa-free entry. The list, which includes several Middle Eastern, European, and Latin American nations, is part of Beijing’s broader push to revive tourism and expand global influence in the post-pandemic era.

Foreign Policy Angle:
The exclusion of Pakistan — a self-declared “iron brother” of China — has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of Pakistan’s foreign office. With decades of strategic, military, and economic ties between the two nations, analysts are now asking: Why couldn’t Pakistan secure a place on this list? Some see it as a diplomatic oversight, while others view it as a missed opportunity in foreign lobbying and bilateral negotiation at a time when global mobility is becoming a key component of soft power.

The new list includes most European nations, five from Latin America, Uzbekistan, and seven Middle Eastern countries, with Azerbaijan slated to join on July 16. The policy reportedly welcomed over 20 million visa-free visitors in 2024, nearly doubling the previous year’s total.

Who qualifies — and who doesn’t?

• 30-day visa-free access: Mostly Europe and selected Asia, Latin American, and Middle Eastern nations.
• 10-day transit policy: Applies to eligible nationalities not on the 30-day list, provided they exit to a different country.

Is Pakistan included?

No. Despite strong diplomatic ties, Pakistan is not among the 74 countries granted visa-free access. Citizens of Pakistan, along with all major African and many South Asian countries, must still apply for visas before travel.

Chinese travel companies and guides report a surge in bookings, with demand doubling and new tour services being launched to keep pace. However, travelers from countries not on the list can still visit under the 10-day transit rule if they meet specific itinerary requirements.

China’s visa policy expansion marks a strategic step toward reclaiming its position as a top global tourist destination, though it also underscores geopolitical nuances, as key regional allies still await entry privileges.