Japan, South Korea attract Chinese tourists with relaxed visa policies

Rajashree Seal December 31, 2024

SiGMA news

Japan and South Korea are making it simpler for Chinese tourists to visit, by easing visa rules that could help grow their tourism sectors, especially the casino industry. The new policies aim to attract more Chinese visitors, who have been important customers in these countries’ casinos.

On December 25, Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi announced that the country will offer a 10-year tourist visa for Chinese citizens and extend the stay for group tourists from 15 to 30 days. These changes, which will start in the spring of 2025, are designed to bring in wealthier Chinese tourists.

Japan is still building its casino industry, with the MGM Osaka resort set to open in 2030. The new visa rules are a step toward attracting more Chinese visitors who are likely to enjoy gambling once the resort opens.

South Korea’s visa-free plan

South Korea is also easing visa rules for Chinese tourists. The country is planning a visa-free pilot program for Chinese tour groups and will continue to waive visa fees for group tourists from China and other countries until December 2025.

Chinese visitors are key to South Korea’s tourism and casino business. South Korea has 17 casinos, 16 of which are for foreign tourists. Chinese gamblers make up a large portion of those visiting these casinos. By making it easier for Chinese tourists to travel to South Korea, the government hopes to boost both tourism and casino revenue.

How the changes will affect tourism

South Korea aims to bring in 18.5 million foreign visitors in 2025, with a target of generating $22.8 billion in tourism sales. A big part of that will come from the casino sector, where Chinese visitors play an important role.

Japan is also focusing on attracting Chinese tourists as it builds its casino industry. The MGM Osaka resort, which will open in 2030, is expected to draw many Chinese gamblers, who will benefit from the new visa rules.

Growth in casino tourism

Both Japan and South Korea see easing visa rules as a way to boost tourism and strengthen their casino industries. With Chinese tourists being major players in the casino world, these changes are expected to bring more visitors and more revenue to both countries. As the new visa policies roll out, Japan and South Korea are preparing for more Chinese visitors, especially in their casino resorts.

Join the biggest iGaming Community in the world with SiGMA’s Top 10 news countdown. Subscribe for weekly updates from the world’s iGaming authority and exclusive subscriber-only offers.