Turkish Airlines are pleased to share exciting updates regarding flight operations to China and recent developments on the visa-free travel policy introduced by the Government of the People’s Republic of China.

Expanded Flight Frequencies Between Istanbul and Major Chinese Cities

Effective October 26, 2025, Turkish Airlines will significantly enhance its flight capacity to Guangzhou (CAN), Shanghai (PVG), and Beijing (PEK) to meet the growing travel demand between Türkiye and China.

Istanbul – Guangzhou (CAN) – Istanbul
• Frequency increased from 7 to 10 flights per week
• New flights: TK298/299 and TK318/319
• Start dates: October 26 and November 1, 2025
• Additional operating days: Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays

Istanbul – Shanghai (PVG) – Istanbul
• Frequency increased from 7 to 11 flights per week
• New flights: TK280/281 (operating on multiple additional days)
• Effective from October 26, 2025

Istanbul – Beijing (PEK) – Istanbul
• Frequency increased from 7 to 10 flights per week
• New flights: TK196/197
• Effective from October 26, 2025

These additional flights will provide more flexible options for both business and leisure travelers, enhancing connectivity between Türkiye and China.

China Extends Visa-Free Policy Until December 31, 2026

The Government of the People’s Republic of China has announced the extension of its unilateral visa-free policy for citizens of multiple countries until 23:59 on December 31, 2026.

Eligible countries include:
France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus (except TRNC Passport), Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Andorra, South Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain.

Additionally, Sweden will be included in this visa-free list from November 10, 2025, through December 31, 2026.

Key Points:
• Applicable to ordinary passport holders
• Purpose of travel: business, tourism, family visits, exchanges, or transit
• Maximum stay: up to 30 days per visit
• Travelers who do not meet visa-free conditions must still obtain an appropriate visa prior to entry.