Visa-Free Journey to China Coming Quickly for Canadians, Confirms Prime Minister Carney

Guiyang, China. (Photo Credit: SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced a brand new partnership between Canada and China on January 16, 2026, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations.

After practically a decade with no Canadian prime ministerial go to to Beijing, Carney confirmed that Canadian residents will quickly have the ability to enter China with no visa.

“I’m very pleased to share that President Xi in our meeting today has committed to ensuring visa-free access for Canadians travelling to China,” Carney instructed reporters.

“The Prime Minister welcomed President Xi’s commitment to introducing visa-free access for Canadians travelling to China,” a statement added, noting the step goals to strengthen tourism, schooling, and cultural exchanges between the 2 international locations.

Carney highlighted the prevailing ties between the nations, together with a Canadian Chinese diaspora of about 2 million folks and greater than 300,000 Chinese guests to Canada in 2024. “These links position both nations to benefit from enhanced travel,” he stated.

“At its best, the Canada-China relationship has created massive opportunities for both our peoples. By leveraging our strengths and focusing on trade, energy, agri-food, and areas where we can make huge gains, we are forging a new strategic partnership that builds on the best of our past, reflects the world as it is today, and benefits the people of both our nations,” Carney added.

No begin date has been set, however as soon as applied, Canada will be a part of 45 international locations whose residents can keep in China visa-free for as much as 30 days by way of 2026.

The agreement additionally covers cooperation in public security and safety, international governance, and local weather motion. 

Canada will permit 49,000 Chinese electrical autos at preferential tariffs, “with an import price of $35,000 CAD or less,” whereas China will reduce canola seed tariffs to fifteen% and carry limitations on key Canadian exports, unlocking practically $3 billion in commerce.

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