Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree granting a wide range of Chinese citizens the right to a visa-free stay in Russia for up to 30 days, Reuters reports, News.bg reports.
Among the categories covered by the new rules are tourists, businessmen, scientists, artists and athletes.
The decree states that the decision reflects China's efforts to provide similar visa-free access for Russian citizens. The new rules will remain in effect until September 14, 2026.
However, they do not apply to Chinese migrant workers, long-term students or employees in the transport and logistics sector.
The decision comes against the backdrop of a strategic partnership between Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signed days before Russia sent tens of thousands of troops to Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, Moscow has relied heavily on imports from China to overcome Western sanctions.
In September, China's Foreign Ministry announced that it would grant 30-day visa-free travel to Russian passport holders for a period of one year, starting September 15, 2025.