Tuesday, February 17, 2026-Canada is signaling a diplomatic reset with China after Beijing announced that Canadian passport holders can now enter mainland China without a visa for short stays of up to 30 days. Prime Minister Mark Carney described the move as a sign of renewing bilateral relations and a key outcome of a new phase in engagement between Ottawa and Beijing. Canadian officials view the visa-free access as a tangible indicator of improving trust and cooperation following several challenging years in the relationship.
China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that beginning February 17, 2026, ordinary passport holders from Canada — along with the United Kingdom — will be granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days for purposes including tourism, business, family visits, exchanges and transit. The policy will remain in effect through December 31, 2026. The expansion reflects China’s broader push to reopen and strengthen global mobility as international travel demand continues to rebound.
For Canada, the development follows high-level discussions in Beijing earlier this year focused on trade, mobility and cultural cooperation. Foreign Minister Anita Anand welcomed the announcement, emphasizing its potential to support business exchanges and deepen personal connections between citizens of both countries. The policy shift signals momentum toward stabilizing and growing economic and diplomatic engagement at a time when global partnerships are increasingly strategic.
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