China Set To Ease Entry Rules For British Travellers After Starmer–Xi Talks
China has agreed in principle to grant British passport holders visa-free access for stays of up to 30 days, the UK government has confirmed.
The development followed a high-level meeting in Beijing between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping, marking the first official visit to China by a British leader in eight years.
Downing Street said the proposed arrangement is part of broader efforts to strengthen economic and trade relations with Beijing as the UK looks to drive growth and expand international partnerships.
While welcoming the move, some critics have urged caution, warning that closer ties with China could pose national security concerns and raise questions around human rights.
No timeline has been announced for when the visa-free policy will take effect, but officials say both sides are pushing for it to be implemented as soon as possible. If finalised, the UK would join around 50 other countries whose citizens can already enter China without a visa, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia and Japan.
Sir Keir said the decision would benefit both businesses and tourists, making it easier for UK firms to operate in China and for individuals to travel for leisure without bureaucratic barriers.
He noted that British companies have long sought simpler access to the Chinese market, describing the relaxed travel rules as a step towards helping them grow internationally while supporting jobs and economic expansion at home.
In addition, the UK and China have agreed to explore the possibility of negotiating a services trade agreement. According to Downing Street, such a deal would set clear and legally binding rules for UK companies operating in China.
The UK is currently the world’s second-largest exporter of services, with strengths in sectors such as finance, healthcare and legal services. Government officials say demand for these services in China is increasing, and a formal agreement could open up new opportunities, including mutual recognition of professional qualifications.
