A visa-free regime between Kazakhstan and China took effect on Friday, providing increased freedom for citizens to pursue their travel aspirations.
The visa-free arrangement permits stays of up to 30 days at a time, allowing citizens of both China and Kazakhstan to travel between the two countries without requiring a visa from the border crossing date. However, individuals are restricted from exceeding 90 days of visa-free travel within a 180-day period.
The governments of Kazakhstan and China signed the visa-free agreement on July 26, sparking mixed reactions and concerns about the transparency of the system from some critics.
Efforts are underway to address flight shortages resulting from the newfound freedom. The agreement allows Kazakhstan and China to operate 84 flights per week. Air Astana has announced plans to expand flights from Almaty to Beijing, Astana to Beijing, and Almaty to Ürümqi. Additionally, new flights are scheduled for Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
China, renowned as the world’s most populous country, attracts millions of tourists annually with its rich history and diverse landscapes. Key destinations include the Great Wall of China, the ancient city of Xi’an with the Terracotta Army, the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, and the picturesque landscapes of Guilin. The Forbidden City in Beijing, the vibrant markets of Hong Kong, and the iconic Yangtze River cruise contribute to China’s allure.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country in Central Asia and Eastern Europe, is drawing an increasing number of tourists each year. With a diverse landscape encompassing vast steppes and soaring mountain ranges, visitors are captivated by the cultural richness of cities like Almaty, the historical significance of Turkestan, and the natural beauty of Charyn Canyon. The bustling markets of Shymkent, the futuristic architecture of Nursultan (formerly Astana), and the serene beauty of Lake Balkhash contribute to the country’s appeal as an emerging tourist destination.