On July 24, 2025, India made a major and positive decision — it officially resumed tourist visas for Chinese citizens. Back in 2020, India had suspended these visas due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the military standoff in the Galwan Valley. But now, this new move brings hope for improving ties between the two nations.
In this article, we’ll explain in simple terms why Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens decision was made, what Chinese tourists love about India, how they can apply for a visa, and how this could benefit India’s tourism industry. We’ll also explore whether this could open a new chapter in India-China friendship.
The Backstory: Why Was This Decision Made?
Relations between India and China became tense in 2020 after the deadly clash between their soldiers in the Galwan Valley. Along with the global travel restrictions during the COVID-19 outbreak, India suspended tourist visas for Chinese nationals — effectively cutting off travel for leisure or cultural visits.
Now, things are starting to change. Both countries are trying to rebuild their relationship. In October 2024, during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping. They agreed on the need to increase cooperation.
Later, in June 2025, Indian and Chinese officials met in New Delhi and discussed restarting the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and increasing flight connections. The decision to resume tourist visas fits into this same framework — a sign that both countries want to build trust and friendship again.
From When Are Visas Available?
India started issuing tourist visas for Chinese citizens from July 24, 2025. The Indian Embassy in Beijing announced this update on social media.
Chinese applicants must apply online first and then submit documents at Indian Visa Centers located in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. As of now, e-visas (online visas) are not available for Chinese citizens, so they will need to apply the traditional way — with physical documents.
Why Is This Important for India-China Relations?
Over the past few years, India and China have had several disagreements, especially along their shared border. But restarting Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens is a step that could help both sides move toward better understanding. Here’s why it matters:
- People-to-people connection: Chinese tourists will get a closer look at Indian culture, food, and historical sites. This helps people from both nations understand each other better.
- Economic boost: Tourists spend money on hotels, food, shopping, and more — which supports the local economy.
- Diplomatic signal: This move comes ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in August 2025, showing that India and China want to improve ties.
While border issues still remain, this is a positive start that could lead to more cooperation in the future.
What Do Chinese Tourists Love About India?
Before the visa ban in 2020, around 300,000 Chinese tourists visited India in 2019. Though fewer than visitors from countries like Bangladesh or the U.S., this was still a significant number.
Some of the top things Chinese tourists enjoy in India.
- Historical and cultural landmarks: The Taj Mahal, Jaipur forts, Red Fort, and Ajanta-Ellora caves.
- Spiritual destinations: Buddhist sites like Bodh Gaya, Sanchi, and Kushinagar; cities like Varanasi and Amritsar are also popular.
- Natural beauty: Trekking in the Himalayas, the valleys of Ladakh, and the mountains of Sikkim.
- Wildlife and nature: National parks like Kaziranga, Gir, and Ranthambore.
Challenges they face
- Language barrier: Few tourists guides in India speak Mandarin, which creates communication gaps.
- Limited amenities: Cleanliness and quality hotels can be lacking in some places.
- Lack of awareness: Many Chinese citizens don’t know much about what India has to offer.
To address this, India has opened a tourism office in Beijing and created Mandarin-language websites and guidebooks. Indian movies and TV shows have also sparked interest among young Chinese audiences. A recent survey showed that 90% of Chinese people want to know more about India, and 69% wish to visit.
Visa Process: What Documents Are Needed?
Chinese citizens will need to submit the following documents to apply for a tourist visa to India.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months and have 2 blank pages.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-size photos with a white background.
- Application form: Filled online and signed.
- Travel letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit.
- Proof of funds: Bank statements or financial proof showing you can afford the trip (around 100,000 Chinese Yuan).
- Confirmed tickets: Proof of return travel to and from India.
- Travel plan: A basic itinerary of where you plan to go in India.
- Chinese ID copy: If applicable.
Steps to apply for Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens
- Fill out the visa form on the Indian Embassy’s website and print it.
- Book an appointment at a visa center in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
- Submit your documents and pay the visa fee.
- Wait a few days to receive your visa.
How Will Indian Tourism Benefit?
The return of Chinese tourists could be a big win for India’s travel industry.
- More revenue: Chinese travelers are among the highest spenders globally. In 2016, they spent $261 billion on foreign trips. In India, they’re likely to spend on hotels, food, and tours.
- More jobs: More visitors mean more work for hotel staff, tour guides, taxi drivers, and others.
- Support for local businesses: Places like Buddhist sites, Himalayan regions, and South Indian temples will see a rise in footfall and sales.
- Better image for India: As tourists share their positive experiences back home, more Chinese people may want to visit India.
The Indian government is also working to improve tourist infrastructure through schemes like Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD, which focus on cleanliness, better roads, and improved facilities at key sites.
What Do Chinese Tourists Enjoy Most in India?
They usually travel in groups and prefer well-organized tours. Their interests include,
- Heritage sites: Taj Mahal, Jaipur palaces, and Red Fort.
- Spiritual trips: Bodh Gaya and Sanchi are top picks for Buddhist travelers; Varanasi and Amritsar also attract many.
- Scenic views: Himalayan treks, Ladakh, and Sikkim mountains.
- Wildlife: National parks like Kaziranga and Ranthambore.
- Cultural experiences: Yoga, Ayurveda, and Indian festivals.
- Food: Indo-Chinese dishes like Manchurian and noodles are especially popular.
Returns Report for Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens
What Has China Said About This Move?
China has welcomed India’s decision (Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens). The Chinese Foreign Ministry called it a “positive step” and said it will make travel between the two countries easier. The Chinese newspaper Global Times said it shows progress in India-China ties. China also expressed interest in working more closely with India so that people from both countries can connect better.
Will This Decision Shape Future Relations?
This move could mark a new beginning for India-China relations. Here’s why:
- People-to-people ties: As tourists meet locals, many misunderstandings can disappear.
- Economic benefits: The money spent by Chinese tourists can help grow both travel and trade.
- Diplomatic progress: This move adds to other recent efforts like restarting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and preparing for the SCO Summit — all signs of warming ties.
Yes, there are still unresolved border issues. But this decision sends a clear message: both countries are willing to build trust and move forward.
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Conclusion
India’s decision (Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens) to reopen tourist visas for Chinese citizens is more than just a policy change — it’s a signal of hope. It will help boost tourism, strengthen the economy, and build new bridges between two ancient civilizations. If both countries keep taking small, positive steps, their relationship could grow stronger over time.
What do you think? Could this be a turning point in India-China relations? Share your thoughts in the comments!
When did India start issuing tourist visas again for Chinese citizens?
India resumed Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens on July 24, 2025, after a five-year suspension due to COVID-19 and border tensions. Chinese travelers can now apply through the Indian Visa Centers in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
Can Chinese citizens apply for an Indian e-visa online?
No, as of now, e-visa services are not available for Chinese citizens. Applicants must follow the traditional paper-based visa process — fill out the online form, print it, and submit it with the required documents at a visa center.
Why is this decision important for India-China relations?
Restarting tourist visas is a positive diplomatic move that encourages people-to-people connection, supports economic growth through tourism, and signals that both countries are willing to improve ties despite ongoing border issues.
