Chinese nationals will soon be able to travel to Russia without needing a visa, President Vladimir Putin confirmed on Thursday at a meeting in Vladivostok.
Putin held talks with the Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, Li Hongzhong, on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum.
Putin commended the “very kind gesture” from the leadership of the Chinese government – a unilateral decision to introduce a visa-free regime for Russian citizens travelling to China.
China’s Foreign Affairs Ministry on Tuesday announced a visa waiver programme for Russians, running from September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026. The maximum stay per person is 30 days.
At the meeting with Li Hongzhong, Putin called the development “a significant step” in bilateral relations, revealing that he and President Xi Jinping did not discuss the topic during their private session in Beijing.
The Russian leader described China’s goodwill as “far from ordinary, as it directly affects, without exaggeration, hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of our citizens.”
The decision, according to Putin, would encourage more Russian citizens to travel to China and foster the growth of business, professional, and personal ties.
“I would be very grateful if you could pass along my warm regards and sincere appreciation to the leadership of the People’s Republic of China,” Putin told Li Hongzhong.
The head of state asked the official to inform the Chinese government and President Xi that Russia “will respond to this friendly gesture in kind and take reciprocal steps.”
Putin also praised China on the “outstanding hosting” of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit and on the “far-reaching and timely initiatives” put forward by President Xi.
Russia to approve visa-free travel for Chinese citizens – Putin
