The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, India, reopened to tourists on Monday, September 23, 2020, after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
India announced it would begin accepting tourist visa applications from Chinese citizens starting July 24, 2025. This marks the first time in five years that India has resumed tourist visa applications for Chinese citizens, after suspending them in February 2020. Chinese citizens can apply online, schedule an appointment, and submit their passport and required documents at designated visa application centers in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson acknowledged the positive move, emphasizing the benefits of easing cross-border travel and stating China's commitment to further facilitating travel between the two countries through continued communication and consultation with India. Chinese experts view this as a significant step in improving relations and fostering people-to-people exchanges.
Prior to the suspension, both tourist and business visa applications from Chinese nationals had shown positive year-on-year growth in 2019. It is estimated that India issued approximately 200,000 visas to Chinese nationals in 2019, a number that drastically decreased to only 2,000 in 2024.
Recent developments indicate a positive trajectory in the relationship between China and India. Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar visited China in July, marking his first dedicated visit since the 2020 military standoff. During talks, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of harmonious coexistence and mutual success, advocating for a path of mutual respect, trust, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.
The easing of bilateral relations also coincides with a period of global trade tensions, including those initiated by the US. In June, a group of Indian pilgrims resumed pilgrimages to Mount Gang Renpoche and Lake Mapam Yun Tso in Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, after a five-year hiatus.
Both Chinese and Indian officials, along with major airlines, have been working towards the resumption of direct flights. Experts highlight the complementary nature of the Chinese and Indian economies, suggesting that improved bilateral relations would benefit both countries and the wider region.
While the resumption of tourist visa issuance is a positive development, some experts note that further support from relevant authorities is needed for the market to fully recover. Challenges remain in obtaining work visas, which are subject to a lengthy approval process and strict requirements.
Experts emphasize the importance of aligning strategic perceptions between the two countries, with the Indian side viewing China as a partner rather than a threat. The resumption of direct flights is seen as crucial for facilitating cross-border travel and cooperation.
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