China Expands Visa-Free List to 55 Countries — India Still Excluded

China has added Indonesia to its 10-day visa-free transit programme, bringing the total number of eligible countries to 55. Despite rising travel demand, India remains excluded from the list—highlighting ongoing strains in bilateral relations between the two nations.

Under this scheme, travellers from select countries—including the US, UK, Japan, France, Australia, and now Indonesia—can enter China visa-free for up to 10 days via designated ports, provided they are en route to a third destination. According to China’s National Immigration Administration, the move is aimed at strengthening regional integration, particularly with ASEAN nations.

Analysts see this expansion as a sign of China’s push for greater regional cooperation and global openness. Yet, Indian travellers remain sidelined, as unresolved border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and broader geopolitical rivalry continue to obstruct similar benefits for India. Strategic mistrust continues to shape India-China ties, despite regional overtures.

India’s reservations are rooted in China’s backing of Pakistan and initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which runs through disputed territory. Unless these contentious issues are diplomatically addressed, the gap in travel access and ease of movement between India and China is unlikely to close.