ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday signed off on a decree introducing visa-free entry into Russia for some categories of Chinese citizens for a period of up to 30 days.

The decree, published on the government portal, provides visa-free entry into Russia for Chinese citizens who arrive in the country for reasons such as business and tourism, as well as participation in scientific, cultural, and sports events.

The measure will stay in effect until Sept. 14, 2026, the decree said, adding that it does not apply to some categories of Chinese citizens, including those coming for work or education.

In September, China announced a visa-free regime for Russian citizens starting from Sept. 15, 2025 to Sept. 14, 2026.

Earlier this month, Putin said at a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Moscow that bolstering bilateral contacts between their peoples will be facilitated by Beijing’s decision to introduce a visa-free regime for Russian citizens, and that mirror decisions will come into effect in Russia "very soon."

"I am confident that this will have very significant consequences in both the economic and humanitarian spheres. In my view, this will be a positive boost to the development of our relations," the Russian president added.