China and Australia will provide each other’s citizens with multiple-entry visas of up to five years for tourism and business from Friday, the Chinese foreign ministry says.
The background: The announcement is another sign of improving ties between the two countries following a milestone trip by China’s Premier Li Qiang to Australia this week.
What else to know: Previously, Chinese citizens could apply for visas of up to one year to visit Australia, or up to 10 years for frequent travellers.
Since 2023, China has been easing entry requirements for visitors from some countries to facilitate travel for business and pleasure, following three years of harsh COVID-19 restrictions that had largely shut its international borders.
What happens next: During Li’s trip to Australia, he said China would also include Australia in its visa-waiver scheme, allowing Australians to visit the country for up to 15 days without a visa.