India has officially resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals, ending a five-year freeze that began in 2020 following the deadly Galwan Valley clash and pandemic-related travel restrictions. The move, which took effect on July 24, 2025, signals a significant step toward rebuilding diplomatic and people-to-people relations between the two Asian giants.
The announcement was made quietly through a statement posted in Mandarin by the Indian Embassy on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. While no formal press release was issued through India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Chinese authorities welcomed the decision, describing it as a constructive gesture toward improving bilateral ties.
India had halted the issuance of tourist visas to Chinese citizens in mid-2020, shortly after the violent border conflict in eastern Ladakh that left casualties on both sides. Since then, only limited categories of visas—such as for diplomats and certain business travelers—had been granted.
The resumption of tourist visa services is expected to encourage the return of Chinese visitors to India, especially those interested in cultural tourism, education, and wellness travel. In 2019, over 300,000 Chinese nationals visited India. The tourism sector is optimistic that the reopening will lead to a gradual revival of this important travel corridor.
Chinese travelers can now apply for Indian visas online and submit their documents through designated Indian Visa Application Centers in major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The digital application system remains in place to streamline processing and reduce in-person interactions.
This development also follows recent progress in India-China relations, including the restoration of direct flight routes and dialogue over border disputes. High-level meetings between the two governments have emphasized the need to rebuild mutual trust and avoid future conflicts, even as unresolved security concerns remain.
By reopening its borders to Chinese tourists, India is signaling a cautious but forward-looking approach to diplomacy, trade, and tourism. While challenges still exist, this move marks a positive step toward restoring normalcy and strengthening regional cooperation in Asia.