Foreign Visitor Arrivals to China in 2023 Decline Over 60% Compared to Pre-Pandemic Levels

Despite China’s border reopening a year ago and the relaxation of strict Covid-19 restrictions, the return of foreign travelers to the country has been sluggish, with numbers still more than 60% below pre-pandemic levels. According to the National Immigration Administration, China recorded 35.5 million entries and exits by foreign nationals in 2023, a significant increase from 2022, but only 36% of the 97.7 million recorded in 2019. The data indicates a slow recovery, although momentum improved toward the end of the year, with more than half of the border crossings occurring in the last three months of 2023.

The number of foreign nationals residing in China, however, has rebounded to 85% of the level at the end of 2019, as stated by Zhang Ning, a spokeswoman for the National Immigration Administration. In 2023, Chinese authorities issued a total of 711,000 residency permits to foreign nationals.

The slow return of foreign visitors has prompted various measures by Beijing to attract tourists and boost economic activity. Recent efforts include granting unilateral visa-free entry to citizens of Switzerland and Ireland, following Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visits to both countries. China has also extended visa-free treatments to several European and Asian countries. In November, a trial program was announced, allowing visitors from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia to enter China visa-free for 15 days. In December, 118,000 travelers from these nations entered China without a visa under the new policy, with over 77% visiting for sightseeing, leisure, or business activities.

In January, China and Thailand reached a reciprocal agreement to permanently waive visa requirements for each other’s citizens starting in March. Additionally, China simplified the visa application process for American tourists, eliminating the need for proof of round-trip air tickets, hotel reservations, itinerary, or an invitation letter to apply for a tourist visa.

China has progressively eased measures to facilitate international travel in the latter part of 2023. In August, pre-entry Covid-19 test requirements for inbound passengers were removed, and business travelers were given the option to obtain visas on arrival. Visitors from certain countries were exempted from fingerprint collection. In the summer, WeChat and Alipay allowed foreign visitors to link their credit cards, enhancing their ability to make transactions across China.

These initiatives are part of China’s broader strategy to revive its tourism sector and strengthen ties with various countries. The government aims to stimulate consumption and enhance business relations by providing visa-free treatments and simplifying travel procedures for foreigners. The ongoing efforts signal a commitment to making China more accessible and attractive to international visitors, contributing to the country’s economic recovery post-pandemic.