SINGAPORE: A 30-day mutual visa-free travel agreement between Singapore and China is expected to be operational by early next year, Deputy Prime Minis
SINGAPORE: A 30-day mutual visa-free travel agreement between Singapore and China is expected to be operational by early next year, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced during his official visit to Beijing and Tianjin. Wong emphasized the strengthening ties between the two countries, noting that flight availability between Singapore and China is now close to pre-pandemic levels.
In tandem with this initiative, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced that it is collaborating with the People’s Bank of China on a pilot program enabling travelers from both nations to use China’s e-CNY digital currency within each other’s borders. “The mutual 30-day visa exemption will further support these developments, promoting smoother exchanges and reinforcing the foundation of bilateral relations,” Wong remarked, as quoted by Lianhe Zaobao.
Invited by China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, Wong is leading Singapore’s delegation for the 19th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Tianjin from Dec 5 to Dec 8. During this session, Ding highlighted the presence of over 40,000 Chinese students in Singapore and underscored how the visa exemption would facilitate greater people-to-people exchanges.
Currently, Singaporeans can visit China for up to 15 days without a visa, while Chinese citizens need a visa to visit Singapore. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) stated that both countries are finalizing the visa-free arrangement details to initiate the 30-day policy by early 2024.
During his visit, Wong will meet with Singaporeans in Beijing and hold discussions with key Chinese officials, including Premier Li Qiang, Vice Premier He Lifeng, and Finance Minister Lan Fo’an. Joining Wong in China are several ministers, including those overseeing trade, education, health, communications, and national development.
This milestone arrangement marks a significant step in strengthening the bilateral ties and connectivity between Singapore and China.
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