Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree granting Chinese citizens visa-free entry to Russia, expanding travel access between the two countries under a reciprocal arrangement.
According to the decree, effective immediately and valid until September 14, 2026, citizens of the People’s Republic of China may enter and stay in Russia for up to 30 days without a visa.
Eligible purposes include visiting relatives or acquaintances, tourism, work-related travel, and participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic or sporting events.
The decree also permits visa-free transit through Russian territory for Chinese travelers holding an ordinary passport. However, the exemption does not apply to those entering Russia for employment, including journalism, or for academic study.
The measure took effect upon signing on 1 December.
China introduced its own pilot visa-waiver program for Russian citizens on 2 September, allowing 30-day stays for tourism, business travel, humanitarian exchanges, family visits and transit. That one-year trial applies to holders of ordinary passports.
The new Russian policy reinforces expanding mobility and cooperation between Moscow and Beijing at a time of deepening bilateral ties.
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