China returns to receive tourists from abroad for the first time since the outbreak of the Corona virus

Weather of Arabia - China will resume issuing visas to foreign tourists for the first time since the outbreak of the Covid epidemic three years ago, and this comes after Beijing declared victory over the virus and retreated from the "Zero Covid" strategy aimed at eliminating the epidemic completely, which affected its economy.

Valid visas that were issued before China closed its doors to the world on March 28, 2020, will be valid from the 15th of this month.

And visa-free entry to Hainan Island and Shanghai for cruise ships will resume.

Tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao are allowed entry without a visa, while Chinese consular offices abroad will resume accepting visa applications.

Tens of millions of international visitors came to China every year before the epidemic, but its tourism industry has been hit hard by the strict anti-COVID measures.

Analysts say the country can expect a significant increase in arrivals from abroad, after reopening its borders.

It will also allow Chinese citizens to travel in tourist groups to 60 countries, compared to 20 previously.

Also read: Countries Jordanians can travel to without a visa