A significant show of friendliness and forward-thinking integration for the ten ASEAN nations and observer state Timor-Leste, China has formally launched its new “ASEAN Visa” program in a historic diplomatic and economic step. On June 3, 2025, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the announcement at a press briefing.
What is the New “ASEAN Visa”?
The recently introduced “ASEAN Visa” is a five-year, multi-entry visa intended exclusively for business workers, their spouses, and their kids from:
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Timor-Leste (ASEAN observer)
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The Highlights:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Validity | Up to 5 years with multiple entries |
| ⏱️ Duration of Each Stay | Maximum 180 days per entry |
| Eligible Dependents | Includes spouses and children of business travelers |
More Than a Visa — A Vision of Regional Unity
The introduction of the ASEAN Visa enhances the Lancang-Mekong Visa program for Mekong-region cooperation and builds on China’s current mutual visa exemption agreements with Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Beyond ASEAN: China’s Expanding Visa-Free Diplomacy
Days earlier, on June 1, 2025, China unilaterally allowed nationals of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay to enter the country without a visa. Additionally, it has accepted all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations into its framework of visa-free travel.
China’s exceptional openness and intentional diplomatic outreach are demonstrated by the 43 countries that now have unilateral visa-free entry to the country.
Economic Pulse: China’s Opening Pays Off
The results of China’s open-door policy are already evident:
- 9 million+ foreigners entered China in Q1 2025 — up 40% year-on-year
- Between January and April 2025, more than 18,000 new foreign-invested businesses were founded, representing a 12.1% rise.
These figures highlight China’s obvious goal of developing international alliances via investment, travel, and intercultural interaction.
What’s Next?
In order to establish China as a global center for trade, tourism, and cooperation, China intends to increase the number of nations that do not require visas and keep improving its entry-facilitating procedures, according to spokeswoman Lin.
Conclusion
An important turning point in China’s diplomatic and economic outreach is the ASEAN Visa program, which provides previously unheard-of access and chances for sustained interaction with Southeast Asia. This program, which offers longer stay periods, family-friendliness, and easier entry, is a reflection of China’s approach to fortify regional relations and establish itself as a friendly center for international trade and collaboration. China is demonstrating its commitment to further integration with ASEAN and beyond by expanding its visa-free and multi-entry policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ASEAN Visa introduced by China?
China offers business professionals, their spouses, and their kids from ASEAN member states and observer Timor-Leste a five-year multi-entry visa known as the ASEAN Visa.
Who is eligible for the ASEAN Visa?
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste.
