Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens Resumed
The Indian government has decided to resume tourist visas for Chinese citizens after a five-year hiatus. This process commenced on July 24, 2025. The Indian Embassy in Beijing announced that Chinese citizens can now obtain tourist visas by completing an online application, scheduling an appointment, and submitting their passports and other necessary documents to Indian visa application centres in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
Reason for Visa Service Suspension
Tensions between India and China escalated significantly in 2020 following the Galwan Valley clash, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst rising tensions with China, the Indian government suspended tourist visa services for Chinese citizens.
Positive Step Towards Improving Bilateral Relations
A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed this move by India. The decision to lift the ban on tourist visas and resume the service has been described as a positive step towards improving India-China relations.