Expanded Access Aligns With 50 Other Nations
With the change, the United Kingdom and Canada join roughly 50 other countries already benefiting from similar access, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan.
For British travelers alone, the potential impact is significant. About 620,000 U.K. residents traveled to China in 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics. That figure could climb if the administrative hurdle of obtaining a visa disappears.
Trade Ties in Focus — Without a Free Trade Deal
During January’s talks, Starmer and Xi also agreed to deepen cooperation in services, healthcare, green technology and finance. Yet despite the optimistic rhetoric, no comprehensive free trade agreement emerged.
The visit marked the first trip to China by a British prime minister since Theresa May traveled there in 2018 — underscoring how rarely such high-level engagements occur.
Still, the diplomatic reset has stirred controversy at home.
Critics Raise Security and Human Rights Concerns
Opposition figures have accused Downing Street of overlooking human rights and national security issues in its effort to rebuild ties with Beijing.
Shortly before departing for China, Starmer’s government approved plans for a major new Chinese embassy in central London. Critics warned the facility could pose security risks or be used for espionage — claims the government has not endorsed.
Supporters argue the visa waiver is a practical step toward restoring dialogue and commercial momentum. Skeptics counter that smoother travel does not erase deeper tensions.
For now, though, the runway is clear: starting Feb. 17, travelers from the U.K. and Canada will be able to board a flight to China without the paperwork that once stood in the way — a small stamp removed, but a potentially significant shift in international relations.
