India Resumes Visas for Chinese Tourists in 2025

In a significant diplomatic development, the Government of India has officially resumed the issuance of tourist visas to Chinese citizens, ending a five-year-long suspension that began in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened bilateral tensions.

The decision was announced by the Indian Embassy in Beijing, which confirmed that Chinese nationals may now apply for tourist visas through the designated Indian Visa Application Centers (IVACs) in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The resumption is effective immediately.

Background

India had suspended all categories of tourist visas for Chinese nationals in February 2020 as part of its global COVID-19 restrictions. However, the suspension for Chinese citizens continued beyond the pandemic due to the deterioration of diplomatic ties following the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in casualties on both sides and a significant freeze in bilateral engagement.

Prior to the suspension, India saw a strong inflow of Chinese tourists. In 2019, over 200,000 Chinese nationals visited India for tourism, business, and pilgrimage. In contrast, the figure dropped to just 2,000 in 2024, highlighting the impact of the prolonged visa freeze.

A Step Toward Normalization

The move is being widely seen as a positive signal of thawing relations. Over the past year, both countries have engaged in a series of high-level talks focused on border de-escalation, economic cooperation, and restoration of cultural ties.

A senior official from India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated:

“Resuming tourist visas is a confidence-building measure. It reflects our commitment to re-engage constructively while continuing to address outstanding issues diplomatically.”

In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the decision, describing it as a “constructive gesture” that will support the resumption of people-to-people exchanges and bilateral tourism cooperation.

Visa Application Details

Chinese citizens can now apply for Indian tourist visas through the standard e-visa platform or by visiting IVACs. Required documentation includes:

• Valid passport
• Completed visa application form
• Travel itinerary and accommodation details
• Proof of sufficient funds and return tickets

Applicants will also undergo biometric verification and may be subject to additional scrutiny under revised security protocols.

Strategic and Economic Implications

India's tourism and hospitality sectors have welcomed the move, especially with expectations of a gradual recovery in inbound tourism. Travel operators and industry experts anticipate a measurable increase in Chinese arrivals during the upcoming festival and winter seasons.

This decision could also facilitate progress in other areas of cooperation, such as:

• Academic exchanges
• Business delegations
• Medical tourism
• Pilgrimage tourism, including renewed interest in routes to Bodh Gaya and Kailash Mansarovar

However, security analysts caution that bilateral normalization remains incomplete, and future steps will depend on the resolution of complex border and geopolitical issues.

Quick Facts

Category	Details
Visa Suspension Since	February 2020
Resumption Date	July 24, 2025
Application Locations	Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou (IVACs)
Pre-suspension Visitors	~200,000 Chinese tourists in 2019
2024 Tourist Volume	Fewer than 2,000

Conclusion

The resumption of tourist visas for Chinese citizens is a noteworthy move in India’s broader diplomatic outreach strategy. While the gesture does not signify full normalization, it sets the stage for renewed engagement, increased tourism, and the potential rebuilding of bilateral trust through soft diplomacy.