Travel to China will remain more affordable for the foreseeable future. Chinese authorities have officially confirmed that reduced visa fees will continue until 31 December 2026, extending a policy that was originally introduced as a temporary measure to encourage international travel.
The confirmation was issued in late December 2025, providing clarity for travelers, businesses, and frequent visitors planning trips to China over the next two years.
China Visa Costs Remain About 25% Lower
Under the extension, applicants for Chinese visas will continue to pay approximately 25% less than the standard visa fees in place before 2023.
The reduced fees apply to:
- Single-entry visas
- Double-entry visas
- Multiple-entry visas
This reduction can result in meaningful savings, especially for business travelers, frequent visitors, and applicants requesting multiple-entry visas.
Confirmed by Chinese Embassies Worldwide
Chinese embassies and consulates across the globe have confirmed the continuation of the reduced fees. Diplomatic missions in countries such as:
- United Kingdom
- France
- Saudi Arabia
- Canada
have all issued notices verifying that the lower visa charges remain in effect.
Importantly, eligibility rules, application requirements, and processing procedures remain unchanged. Only the cost structure continues at the reduced level.
Fingerprint Exemption Still Applies for Short-Term Visas
In addition to lower visa costs, China has also extended its fingerprint exemption policy for short-term visas until the end of 2026.
Applicants will not be required to submit fingerprints if:
- The visa is for a stay of six months or less
- The application falls under an eligible short-term category
The fingerprint waiver applies to:
- Tourist visas
- Business visas
- Family visit visas
- Transit visas
Together, the fee reduction and fingerprint exemption significantly simplify the visa process for temporary visits.
A Note on Visa Application Centre Service Fees
Travelers should note that the reduced fees apply only to the official visa charges set by Chinese consulates.
In many countries, visa applications are submitted through Visa Application Centres (VACs), which charge separate service fees.
- These service fees remain unchanged
- The discount does not apply to VAC processing charges
Applicants should factor these additional costs into their overall travel budget.
Part of China’s Broader Travel Facilitation Strategy
The extension of reduced visa costs aligns with China’s wider efforts to revive tourism and international mobility.
In addition to lower visa fees and fingerprint exemptions, China is also:
- Maintaining its one-month unilateral visa-free policy for nationals of 45 countries until 31 December 2026
- Simplifying arrival procedures through digital entry systems at major airports
Taken together, these measures signal a long-term strategy to make travel to China more accessible, predictable, and cost-effective.
What This Means for Travelers in 2026
For anyone planning to visit China in 2026—whether for tourism, business, or family reasons—the extension removes a major uncertainty.
- Visa fees remain reduced
- Short-term visitors avoid fingerprint appointments
- Application rules remain stable
This consistency allows travelers and businesses to plan ahead without concern that higher visa fees will return suddenly.
Conclusion
China’s decision to extend reduced visa costs until the end of 2026 is a clear signal of its commitment to reopening and welcoming international visitors. Combined with ongoing fingerprint exemptions and visa-free access for selected nationalities, the move makes short- and medium-term travel significantly easier.
For travelers looking ahead to 2026, this extension simplifies budgeting, reduces paperwork, and removes another barrier to visiting China.