In a significant boost to bilateral relations, Maltese citizens can now travel to China visa-free for up to 30 days. The agreement, effective from November 30, 2024, and lasting until December 31, 2025, covers visits for purposes including business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, and transit. This development highlights growing cooperation between Malta and China, fostering mutual trust and enabling opportunities for tourism, cultural exchange, and international trade.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Foreign Affairs Minister Ian Borg described the agreement as a milestone in the long-standing relations between the two nations:
"This visa-free agreement reflects strong mutual trust and opens avenues for deeper cooperation"
Malta Foreign Affairs Minister Ian Borg
Economic and Cultural Implications
China’s move to expand visa-free entry aligns with its strategy to revive tourism and business after strict restrictions implemented during the Covid pandemic. The initiative now includes nine countries: Malta, Japan, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia, and Latvia. With 38 countries now benefiting from visa-free access, the program marks China's efforts to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, attract tourists, and boost its economy.
For Maltese travellers, this facilitates easier access to China, potentially increasing trade and cultural connections. It is also part of a broader global trend of countries fostering mobility and cooperation through eased travel restrictions.
A Broader Strategy
China's visa-free expansion is part of a broader policy shift. Since 2023, the country has restored and expanded visa-free programs to various nations, reflecting its intent to rebuild global ties. This latest development highlights its dual focus on economic revival and diplomatic relations.
This agreement represents a win-win for Malta and China, strengthening ties while providing new opportunities for citizens of both nations. It paves the way for continued collaboration in business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Accessing Opportunities the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations
Acquiring Maltese citizenship through investment provides access to a range of global mobility benefits, including the recent visa-free travel arrangement with China and visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries. These include key jurisdictions such as the Schengen Zone, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, facilitating international travel and fostering global connectivity.
