China extends reduced visa fees until December 31, 2026, keeping Chinese visa costs 25% lower. Fingerprint exemptions and visa-free entry continue, offering major advantages for B2B travel agents and corporate travel planners.

Travelling to China just became more predictable—and more affordable—for the next two years. In a move welcomed by the global travel trade, Chinese authorities have officially confirmed that reduced visa fees will remain valid until December 31, 2026.

For B2B travel agents, consolidators, and corporate travel managers, this extension removes uncertainty around pricing and simplifies long-term travel planning for both leisure and business clients.

💰 China Visa Fees Remain 25% Lower

The extension means travellers will continue to benefit from approximately 25% lower visa fees compared to pre-2023 rates.

These reduced charges apply across all major visa categories, including:

Single-entry visas
Double-entry visas
Multiple-entry visas

For frequent business travellers and group movements, this translates into meaningful cost savings—especially when planning repeated trips or annual travel programs.

🌍 Confirmed by Chinese Embassies Worldwide

Chinese embassies and consulates across key global markets—including Europe, the Middle East, and North America—have issued confirmations of the extension.

Importantly for agents:

This consistency allows travel professionals to advise clients with confidence and avoid last-minute policy surprises.

🖐️ Fingerprint Exemption Extended Until 2026

Alongside reduced fees, China is also continuing its fingerprint exemption for short-term visas until the end of 2026.

Applicants travelling for 180 days or less will not be required to submit biometric fingerprints for the following visa types:

Tourist visas
Business visas
Family visit visas
Transit visas

For agents, this means faster processing, fewer appointment delays, and smoother documentation workflows—a strong selling point for short-duration travel.

⚠️ Important Note on Visa Application Centre Fees

While the visa fee discount remains in place, it applies only to the official embassy or consulate fee.

In many countries, applications are handled by third-party visa application centres.

Clear communication here helps avoid confusion and ensures transparent pricing for customers.

✈️ Part of China’s Broader Tourism Revival Strategy

The visa fee extension aligns with China’s wider efforts to revive inbound travel. Authorities have also confirmed that the unilateral 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of 45 countries will continue until December 31, 2026.

Taken together, these measures signal a clear direction:

Easier entry
Lower costs

📌 Key Takeaway for B2B Travel Professionals

For the travel trade, this update is more than just a fee extension. It provides pricing stability, operational simplicity, and stronger value propositions for clients planning China travel through 2026.

Agents can now confidently promote China itineraries, corporate visits, MICE travel, and group tours without concerns over sudden visa cost hikes.

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