Latin American travellers are arriving in growing numbers to China after the country launched a unilateral visa-free policy for five South American nations on Sunday.
Citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay can now enter China without a visa for short-term stays, a move welcomed by both tourists and officials.
Cross-border traffic surged at key entry points such as Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station, which links directly to Shenzhen via high-speed rail.
The route allows travellers to complete both Hong Kong and mainland China immigration checks in one facility.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for South American people,” said a Peruvian tourist arriving in Shenzhen. China and South America have strong relationships. This will help both countries grow.”
Another traveller from Argentina said the visa-free access would strengthen bilateral ties.
“It’s amazing — we can now go back and forth. This will generate a better partnership,” the visitor said.
A Brazilian tourist also welcomed the move, saying:
“I didn’t need to apply for a visa. I’m really happy with this. I’ll probably return sooner now.”
According to official immigration data, nearly 500,000 foreigners passed through West Kowloon Station in the first five months of 2025 — a 33% increase year-on-year. Among them, more than 115,000 travellers entered China under the new visa-free arrangements.
“Most visits were for tourism, business, or family reasons,” said Huang Chun, an immigration officer stationed on the Shenzhen side of the terminal. “The top nationalities included travellers from the United States, Singapore, and Malaysia.”
The latest visa exemption is part of Beijing’s broader effort to revive inbound tourism and deepen ties with the Global South. The initiative also reflects China’s push for greater economic and cultural cooperation with Latin America, amid growing global competition for influence in emerging markets.
