By In a significant move that reflects a strengthening of people-to-people ties between two of Asia’s largest economies, the Chinese Embassy in India has announced that it has issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens from January 1 to April 9, 2025. This development comes at a time of growing global geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding U.S. foreign policies under President Donald Trump.
According to Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, “As of April 9, 2025, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in India have issued more than 85,000 visas to Indian citizens traveling to China this year. We welcome more Indian friends to visit China, experience an open, safe, vibrant, sincere, and friendly China.” This message was shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing China’s effort to rebuild trust and cultural diplomacy with India.
Visa Relaxations Encourage Travel
The large number of visas issued is partly due to several new relaxations that China has introduced to make the visa application process easier and more accessible for Indian travelers. These measures include:
- No Prior Online Appointment: Applicants from India can now submit their visa applications directly at Chinese visa centers without needing an online appointment. This simplifies the application process and saves time for travelers.
- Biometric Data Exemption: Short-term travelers to China are now exempt from providing biometric data, which significantly reduces the processing time and improves convenience.
- Lower Visa Fees: China has revised its visa fees, making travel more affordable. This is especially beneficial for students, businesspeople, and tourists planning trips on a budget.
- Faster Processing: The Chinese consular services have streamlined their visa approval timelines, making it easier for Indian citizens to receive their visas quickly.
- Tourism Promotion: China has stepped up its efforts to attract Indian tourists by showcasing its diverse cultural and seasonal attractions such as Chinese New Year festivals, historical landmarks, scenic landscapes, and culinary experiences.
These steps have made China a more accessible destination for Indian citizens, particularly students, entrepreneurs, and tourists.
Boosting Educational and Business Ties
Thousands of Indian students, especially those pursuing medical and engineering degrees, have traditionally chosen China for higher education due to the country’s reputable universities and affordable tuition fees. After disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many Indian students faced challenges returning to China. The resumption of student travel has brought relief to families and educational institutions alike.
Moreover, the increase in visa issuance also benefits Indian businesses and entrepreneurs looking to explore trade opportunities with Chinese firms. With China hosting several international expos and trade fairs, easier access means more Indian companies can attend these events, explore partnerships, and expand their market reach.
China’s Soft Power Strategy
This generous visa issuance can also be seen as part of a broader soft power strategy by China to improve its image in India, particularly against the backdrop of long-standing border tensions and ongoing military standoffs along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). While political relations have been strained, especially after the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, China’s recent approach signals a willingness to engage positively at the cultural and civilian level.
Soft power, in this context, involves influencing through attraction rather than coercion. By promoting tourism, education, and cultural exchanges, China appears to be adopting a bottom-up approach to restoring mutual trust between the two nations.
Economic and Geopolitical Context
This development comes at a time when President Donald Trump, having returned to office, has renewed his tough stance on China. His administration has been issuing threats of increased tariffs and economic sanctions, positioning China as a major adversary on the global trade front. In this context, China appears to be reaching out to allies and neighboring countries — including India — to counterbalance the pressure from the United States.
Chinese Embassy spokesperson Yu Jing emphasized the significance of India-China economic cooperation by stating, “China-India economic and trade relationship is based on complementarity and mutual benefit. Facing the U.S. abuse of tariffs, the two largest developing countries should stand together to overcome the difficulties.” She added, “Trade and tariff wars have no winners. All countries should uphold the principles of extensive consultation, practice true multilateralism, and jointly oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism.”
A Step Toward Normalization
Although India and China continue to have differences on several key issues, especially border security and geopolitical strategies, the latest move by China could be a step toward gradual normalization. Encouraging people-to-people contact can lay the groundwork for improved diplomatic dialogue and cultural understanding, which are essential components of long-term peace and cooperation.
As visa relaxations continue and Indian travelers begin to explore opportunities in China once again, the relationship between the two nations may evolve beyond political disputes. The hope is that through tourism, education, and trade, both countries can create a new chapter in their shared history—one based on mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.
