In a dramatic shift echoing across the tourism and diplomatic landscapes, China has introduced sweeping visa-free access for citizens from over 70 countries, seeking to reinvigorate its travel sector and global engagement. Meanwhile, the United States—especially under the influence of former President Donald Trump’s ongoing views—has moved in the opposite direction, rolling out new restrictions, higher fees, and bans affecting travelers from a growing list of nations. These divergent paths are not only defining the international tourism recovery post-pandemic, but also symbolizing larger trends in global openness and isolationism—raising questions on what this means for Thai travelers, the region, and the future of cross-border mobility.
China’s latest visa reforms represent the country’s boldest tourism strategy in years. As of July 2024, China now permits citizens from 74 countries to enter without a visa for up to 30 days, aiming to boost economic activity and soft power through increased foreign arrivals (ABC Australia; Republic World). This significant opening marks a complete turnaround from the severe entry restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 crisis, when China’s borders were among the hardest for foreigners to cross. On the business side, Chinese authorities are banking on a tourism revival after international arrivals in 2023 lagged at less than half the pre-pandemic levels. In practical terms, tourism-related sectors have already reported surges—with some sources quoting up to a 45% increase in inbound tourism in anticipation of this measure (Times Now).
Conversely, the United States has adopted a more restrictive trajectory, particularly towards nations perceived to present a higher security or immigration risk. Recent developments include a 148% increase in tourist visa application costs (NDTV), new travel bans effective from June 2025, and a marked shortening of visa validity for citizens of multiple African countries—changes that are being justified by U.S. officials as a “global reciprocity realignment” (BBC; NBC News). Under these revisions, many categories of travelers are now only eligible for single-entry, three-month visas, a sharp contrast to previous policies that often permitted multiple entries over two or more years.
For Thai travelers, the implications of these global policy shifts are direct and complex. Historically, outbound Thai tourism has split markedly between Asia—including China, Japan, and South Korea—and the West, with the United States as a major aspirational destination for students, professionals, and holidaymakers. However, the growing ease of access to China could shift these patterns, especially if Chinese authorities extend the new visa-free regime to Thailand, a move likely given the strong diplomatic ties and Thailand’s status as one of the top sources of tourists to China. At the time of writing, the Thai government is in talks with Chinese counterparts to secure inclusion on the visa-free list, which industry insiders suggest could lead to a surge in both business and leisure trips (ABC Australia). Tourism-sector officials from Thailand note that streamlined Chinese entry will boost two-way flows and cultural exchange, potentially cementing Thailand’s standing as a key bridge in Sino-ASEAN relations.
In contrast, travel to the United States is becoming increasingly difficult for Thais and many others. Steep fee hikes—now roughly ฿6,900 per application for non-petition-based non-immigrant visas—coupled with lengthier processing times and heightened scrutiny, have already discouraged both leisure and business travelers. Educational institutions in Thailand express concern over reduced opportunities for academic exchange and research collaborations, warning that restrictive U.S. policies could diminish the country’s soft power and curb Thai students’ access to world-class higher education (NDTV).
The historical backdrop provides crucial context. In the decades following Deng Xiaoping’s reforms, China employed a tightly controlled visa regime to project sovereignty and filter outside influence, only softening in the late 2000s for mega events like the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The pandemic brought a new era of closure, but the stakes of remaining isolated became clear as economic headwinds and international competition mounted (MENAFN). Now, China’s reversal signals an understanding that attracting global visitors serves not only fiscal but also geopolitical aims—fostering people-to-people diplomacy and countering security narratives that dog the nation’s international image.
By contrast, U.S. visa policy has fluctuated over the years in response to waves of migration, economic shocks, and security incidents, such as 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Trump administration’s embrace of the “America First” doctrine brought unprecedented travel bans and tighter barriers, while the Biden administration had attempted a partial rollback—yet the 2025 return of more restrictive measures points to deepening anxiety about border control and globalization.
Expert commentary underscores the significance of these policy realignments. A leading tourism researcher from an ASEAN university noted, “China’s new visa policies are pragmatic, targeting economic recovery and soft power gains. In contrast, the United States’ retrenchment may have unintended consequences for its own competitiveness and cultural influence in Asia.” Diplomatic officials at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed this analysis, highlighting that “ease of access is a powerful tool in international relations. The newer Chinese approach enhances trust and cooperation, making the region more interconnected.”
Looking ahead, the long-term impacts of China’s open-door pivot and America’s insular turn may extend far beyond tourism. Economically, the Asia-Pacific region could see increasing trade and investment networks centering on China, as business travel and mobility become more accessible. In education and innovation, more Thai professionals and students may look east, leveraging China’s burgeoning tech and academic hubs rather than facing U.S. entry hurdles. Tourism boosters in Thailand predict that broader Chinese access will not only revive their own inbound market, but also increase regional connectivity—especially given the popularity of Yunnan, Shanghai, and historic cities among Thai holidaymakers.
However, some experts urge caution. “Visa-free entry is only one component of the broader travel experience,” emphasized an executive at the Thai Tourism Authority. “Language barriers, safety perceptions, and the quality of hospitality services also influence patterns of movement. Too rapid an influx, without proper planning, could create bottlenecks and dissatisfaction.” Security analysts in Thailand also warn that increased mobility must be balanced with robust systems to track and manage transnational crime and health risks—a lesson highlighted during the pandemic.
For Thai readers contemplating their next international journey, the message is clear: the global tourism map is shifting. Those seeking new business or holiday opportunities may find China an increasingly attractive—and accessible—destination. Families looking for education or work in the U.S. must prepare for stricter requirements and higher financial outlays. To maximize these changes, would-be travelers should monitor updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consult with licensed travel agents, and ensure full compliance with all entry procedures for both China and the United States. Business and education leaders are encouraged to seek Chinese partners and tap into emerging networks in East Asia, while advocating for bilateral arrangements that keep America open to Thai talent and investment.
In the face of these evolving policies, Thailand stands at a crossroads—able to leverage shifting global trends for the benefit of its travelers, students, and entrepreneurs. With diligent planning, Thai outbound and inbound tourism will not only recover, but thrive in a more open, dynamic Asia.
Sources:
- Republic World: China Visa-Free Entry Now Allowed for 70+ Countries
- ABC Australia: China extends visa-free entry to a record 74 countries
- Times Now: China Permits Visa-free Entry To Over 70 Countries
- NDTV: US Tourist Visa Will Now Cost 148% More
- NBC News: Trump administration travel ban on 12 countries has taken effect
- BBC: US cuts visa validity for applicants from four African countries
- MENAFN: China Extends Visa-Free Entry To 75 Countries