Türkiye has officially introduced visa-free travel for citizens of the People’s Republic of China, marking a strategic milestone in the country’s international tourism and investment policy. Effective January 2, 2026, Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports may now enter Türkiye without a visa for tourism or transit purposes, for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period

This landmark decision is expected to significantly increase travel flows from one of the world’s largest outbound tourism and investment markets—creating new opportunities across hospitality, commerce, and real estate.

The Details: What You Need to Know

The new regulation, signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, simplifies entry for millions of potential visitors. Here are the key highlights of the policy:

• Who Qualifies: Citizens of the People’s Republic of China holding ordinary passports.

• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

• Permitted Purposes: The exemption applies to tourism and transit travel.

• Effective Date: The policy officially began on January 2, 2026.

Note: For those planning to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, traditional visa and residence permit applications still apply.

Top Destinations for Your Turkish Adventure

With the visa barrier gone, there’s never been a better time to plan a trip. Here are the “must-visit” spots trending for 2026:

1. Istanbul: The bridge between East and West. From the Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, it’s a city of endless discovery.

2. Antalya & the Aegean Coast: Perfect for those seeking luxury resorts, ancient ruins like Ephesus, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

3. Cappadocia: Famous for its “fairy chimneys” and sunrise balloon flights, this remains a top favorite for Chinese photography enthusiasts.

4. Pamukkale: The stunning white travertine terraces are a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks like something out of a dream.

Planning Your Visit

While the visa is no longer required, travelers should still ensure they have:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.

• Proof of onward or return travel.

• Travel insurance (highly recommended for peace of mind).

Why This Decision Matters

China remains one of the fastest-growing sources of global travelers and overseas investors. By removing visa requirements, Türkiye positions itself as a more accessible, competitive, and welcoming destination for:

• High-net-worth individuals

• International investors

• Lifestyle buyers and second-home seekers

• Business travelers exploring cross-border opportunities

According to official statements, the policy aims to strengthen bilateral relations while boosting tourism revenues and economic cooperation

A Direct Impact on Türkiye’s Real Estate Market

Historically, easier entry policies have translated into stronger demand for real estate—particularly in countries offering lifestyle appeal, investment stability, and residency incentives.

With visa-free access now in place, Chinese buyers can:

• Visit properties without administrative barriers

• Spend more time exploring regions and developments

• Build long-term confidence before committing to investment

This is especially relevant for luxury real estate, branded residences, resort-style developments, and citizenship-eligible properties across Türkiye’s most desirable destinations.

Strategic Advantage for International Investors

Türkiye already offers a compelling combination of:

• Competitive real estate pricing compared to global peers

• Strong rental yields in key tourism hubs

• A well-established citizenship-by-investment program

• A lifestyle that blends Mediterranean living with modern infrastructure

The introduction of visa-free travel for Chinese citizens further enhances Türkiye’s appeal as a gateway market between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

How Best Invest | Forbes Global Properties Supports Global Buyers

As the sole representative of Forbes Global Properties in Türkiye, Best Invest | Forbes Global Properties connects international investors with an exclusive portfolio of premium real estate opportunities.

Our services include:

• Curated luxury and investment-grade properties

• Expert guidance on Turkish citizenship and legal processes

• Multilingual, end-to-end advisory tailored to global clients

• Access to properties featured on the Forbes Global Properties platform

For Chinese investors and global buyers alike, visa-free travel removes the first barrier—expert local representation ensures the right investment follows.

Türkiye’s visa-free policy for Chinese citizens is more than a tourism initiative—it is a strategic move that reinforces the country’s openness to global capital and international lifestyles.

As interest from China and the wider Asia-Pacific region grows, Türkiye’s real estate market stands poised for increased international engagement—particularly at the luxury and investment level.

Now is the time to explore what Türkiye has to offer.