China Launches 5-Year “ASEAN Visa” with 180-Day Stay for Southeast Asian Business Travelers

In a major diplomatic and economic move, China has launched the new ASEAN Visa—valid for 5 years with 180-day stays—to deepen ties with Southeast Asia. Here’s everything you need to know.

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What is the China “ASEAN Visa”?

China’s newly introduced ASEAN Visa is a multi-entry visa valid for 5 years, designed to allow business travelers and their families from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste to stay in China for up to 180 days per visit.

This visa supports long-term cooperation in trade, innovation, and people-to-people connectivity across Asia.

Key Details of the ASEAN Visa:

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Who Can Apply for China’s ASEAN Visa?

This visa is available to nationals of all 10 ASEAN member countries and Timor-Leste, which holds observer status in ASEAN. The list includes:

• Brunei

• Cambodia

• Indonesia

• Laos

• Malaysia

• Myanmar

• Philippines

• Singapore

• Thailand

• Vietnam

• Timor-Leste

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Why is China Introducing This ASEAN Visa?

This strategic visa initiative promotes:

• Regional unity: Reflects China’s commitment to ASEAN integration

• Business cooperation: Encourages cross-border investments and joint ventures

• Cultural exchange: Facilitates easier movement for families of businesspeople

• Peace and prosperity: Supports regional peace and mutual development goals

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said this visa represents “a vision for a shared future that emphasizes regional peace, prosperity, and environmental beauty.”

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Complementing Other China-ASEAN Agreements

China already offers visa-free access to nationals of:

• Singapore

• Malaysia

• Thailand

The ASEAN Visa enhances this cooperation and complements the Lancang-Mekong Visa that was designed for the Mekong subregion. Together, these policies establish a new standard for regional mobility and trust-building.

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China’s Broader Visa-Free Strategy

Just days before launching the ASEAN Visa, China expanded its unilateral visa-free access to the following Latin American countries:

• Brazil

• Argentina

• Chile

• Peru

• Uruguay

Furthermore, all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states are now included in China’s visa-free regime. With these additions:

43 countries now enjoy visa-free access to China, signaling a massive shift in China’s foreign policy and global engagement strategy.

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Early Results of China’s Visa Reforms

China’s open-door policies are already showing results:

• 9.05 million foreign entries in Q1 2025 — a 40% increase year-on-year

• 18,000+ new foreign-invested companies registered between January–April 2025 — up by 12.1%

These metrics confirm the country’s goal to become a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation.

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What’s Next for Travelers?

Spokesperson Lin Jian noted that China plans to expand visa-free access to more countries and improve entry facilitation systems. This includes digital platforms, AI-based processing, and smart border controls.

Benefits Travelers Can Expect:

• Shorter wait times at entry points

• Improved digital visa systems

• More transparency in the application process

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Final Thoughts: Is the ASEAN Visa a Game-Changer?

Absolutely. This move transforms China’s relationship with Southeast Asia. By offering a 180-day stay on a 5-year visa, China is setting a precedent in Asia-Pacific mobility.

The ASEAN Visa will:

• Simplify long-term travel

• Boost business cooperation

• Deepen diplomatic relations

• Encourage mutual cultural understanding

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the ASEAN Visa?
Business professionals, their spouses, and children from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste.

2. How long can I stay in China with the ASEAN Visa?
Up to 180 days per entry, with multiple entries allowed over 5 years.

3. Does this mean visa-free access?
No. The ASEAN Visa is not visa-free but a facilitated visa with relaxed terms.

4. Can tourists apply for the ASEAN Visa?
Currently, it is limited to business travelers and their families.

5. When did this visa come into effect?
It was officially announced on June 3, 2025, and is now open for application.

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Sources and References

• Official Press Release – Chinese Government News Portal

• ASEAN.org | Diplomatic Engagement Updates

• Nikkei Asia | Regional Mobility Policy Reports

• CGTN | China–ASEAN Business Forums