In the context of the development of Russia–China relations, special attention should be paid to visa regime liberalization between Russia and China or its complete abolishment. In addition to the positive influence it would undoubtedly have on the business climate of the two countries, especially in crossborder and inter-regional cooperation, it would also significantly improve the conditions for cultural and civilizational dialogue. Analyzing international experience, as well as economic and political significance that a visa-free regime would have for modern Russia will provide insight into the issue.
In the context of the development of Russia–China relations, special attention should be paid to visa regime liberalization between Russia and China or its complete abolishment. In addition to the positive influence it would undoubtedly have on the business climate of the two countries, especially in crossborder and inter-regional cooperation, it would also significantly improve the conditions for cultural and civilizational dialogue. Analyzing international experience, as well as economic and political significance that a visa-free regime would have for modern Russia will provide insight into the issue.
Recommendations
1. Sign an updated Russia–China agreement on visa-free travel for tourist groups as soon as possible.
2. Expand the practice of visa-free transit for Russian nationals in China and Chinese nationals in Russia on a reciprocal basis.
3. Expand the rules on the simplified procedure for tourists and investors entering the Russian Far East to other regions of the Russian Federation.
4. Simplify the procedure for issuing multiple-entry visas for Russian and Chinese nationals and increase their term of stay.
5. Resolve the issue of granting student visas on a reciprocal basis with the right to engage in temporary employment.
6. Greatly simplify mutual trips for residents of neighbouring regions in Russia and China as part of cross-border and inter-regional cooperation.
7. Study and adapt the practice of simplifying the procedure for Russian nationals obtaining Schengen visas, including free and multiple-entry visas.
8. Study and adapt the practice of simplifying the visa regime prior to the introduction of a visa-free programme, as was the case with Russia and South Korea.
9. Sign an agreement on the introduction of a visa-free regime between Russia and China along the lines of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Belarus and the Government of the People’s Republic of China on Mutual Visa Exemption for Holders of Common Passports.
Prospects for Liberalizing Visa Regime between Russia and China, 1.4 Mb
