Citizens of the United Kingdom and Canada can now enter China without a visa starting Tuesday, according to AP. The move brings the total number of eligible countries to 79. The policy aims to boost tourism and business ties.

AP reported that visitors can stay for up to 30 days. The visa-free entry covers travel for business, tourism, exchange programs and family visits. Most European nations already qualify under the scheme.

Citizens of countries such as the United States and Indonesia can enter China for up to 10 days if they are in transit. They must hold onward tickets to a third country. The broader policy has expanded significantly over the past two years.

The addition of the UK and Canada follows recent visits by Prime Ministers Keir Starmer and Mark Carney. Both leaders are seeking to improve relations with Beijing after several years of strained ties.

For most countries, the visa-free arrangement is set to expire at the end of this year. However, Chinese authorities have extended similar policies in the past.