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China has officially launched a new visa policy aimed at boosting travel and cooperation with countries in Southeast Asia. The announcement, made on June 3, 2025, marks the introduction of a dedicated ASEAN visa to facilitate cross-border exchanges between China and ten ASEAN member states along with Timor-Leste.

The special visa will be available to businesspeople from the 11 participating countries, as well as their spouses and children, provided they meet the requirements. According to a diplomat quoted in the report, the visa will be valid for five years, allow multiple entries, and permit stays of up to 180 days per visit.

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The countries included in this special visa policy are: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste. The initiative is described as being part of a wider effort to foster people-to-people exchanges and create a more connected and cooperative regional environment.


The program was implemented with the intention of strengthening China's cooperation with its neighbours in the region and streamlining travel procedures. The State Council of China's official announcement states that the goal of the visa program is to increase cooperation in the tourism, cultural, and economic spheres and to encourage greater openness.

According to a report, the move reflects China's broader diplomatic stance of maintaining close and friendly relations with ASEAN nations. A spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China said that the government is working to create a more open and convenient travel environment for citizens of ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste.

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The launch of the ASEAN visa comes as ASEAN–China relations continue to grow stronger. The timing of the policy suggests a concerted effort to support regional stability and integration through increased mobility.

Following the COVID-19 outbreak, China has been making steady efforts to boost its inbound travel industry. This move is seen as a significant step to get international arrivals, particularly from Southeast Asia, back on track. It is especially significant to note that Timor-Leste, which is not yet a full ASEAN member, is included.

The introduction of a special ASEAN visa by China is a key diplomatic and practical initiative aimed at improving cross-border travel and enhancing regional ties. With the implementation of this policy, China is taking a clear step toward closer integration and cooperation with Southeast Asian countries.