Can international tourists visit China? Everything you need to know about the country's reopening

Some potentially good news for travelers hoping to visit China in 2023. After nearly three years of being largely cut off from the world, Chinese authorities announced the lifting of several major Covid-related entry restrictions that take effect on January 8. Among these, China has dropped quarantine requirements for all international arrivals, its most significant move yet as it veers away from its stringent zero-Covid policy. But who can visit?

Here, we address some of the major questions that might be on travelers' minds right now as they start planning their 2023 journeys.

China isn't rolling out the red carpet for international leisure tourists looking to experience the country's many attractions just yet. Borders remain largely closed to foreigners, apart from business or family visits, though the government has signaled it is looking to ease restrictions in this area, too. No timeline has been announced. According to the government notices, for now it plans to focus on facilitating visa applications for foreign nationals traveling to China for business, employment, study, family visits and reunions.

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