China Grants Visa-Free Travel for Britons as Starmer Seeks Economic Boost
GeokHub
Beijing, Jan. 29 (GeokHub) China has agreed to allow British citizens to enter the country without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, a move announced on Thursday during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Beijing and billed by London as a significant win for business and economic growth.
Starmer said the visa-free access would make it easier for British companies to expand operations in China, responding to long-standing complaints from firms seeking smoother access to the world’s second-largest economy.
Focus on Services and Growth
The policy change forms part of what Britain described as a new partnership with China, aimed at strengthening trade ties — particularly in services, which underpin the UK economy.
British officials said the two sides also agreed to carry out a feasibility study that could eventually lead to a bilateral services agreement, easing market access for UK firms in sectors such as healthcare, finance, legal and professional services, education, and skills development.
Britain currently exports around £13 billion worth of services to China each year, according to government figures, with demand continuing to rise.
Economic Pressure at Home
Injecting momentum into Britain’s sluggish economy has been a central goal of Starmer’s four-day trip to China. His Labour government has prioritised trade expansion and foreign investment as it seeks to deliver on promises of higher growth and job creation.
In a statement, Starmer said British businesses had been “crying out” for better access to China, adding that easier travel would help companies grow their presence abroad while supporting employment at home.
Part of a Broader Diplomatic Reset
The visa decision follows a wider effort by London and Beijing to stabilise relations after years of strain marked by security concerns and political disagreements. While sensitive issues remain, both governments have framed the latest agreements as practical steps to rebuild trust and unlock economic opportunities.
