India will resume issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals starting July 24, 2025, marking a significant diplomatic shift after years of strained relations. The decision, announced by the Indian Embassy in Beijing, signals a cautious move toward restoring normalcy following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, which severely disrupted bilateral ties.
The resumption of visas is part of a broader set of confidence-building measures agreed upon during recent high-level engagements. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong, laid the groundwork for this development. Their discussions built on the informal exchange between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during the October 2024 Kazan summit.
Applicants must now submit online forms and schedule in-person appointments at Indian visa centres in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The move follows earlier agreements to restart direct flights and allow Indian pilgrims to access Mount Kailash, reflecting growing efforts to stabilise ties.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met President Xi at the recent SCO Summit in Beijing, reiterating the need for a steady and long-term resolution to border disputes. In talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Jaishankar emphasised the principles of mutual respect and sensitivity, especially concerning the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The 2020 Galwan clash, which killed 20 Indian soldiers, led to hardened stances, military buildup, and economic restrictions. The visa freeze, initially linked to the pandemic, deepened due to China’s delayed return of Indian students.
India’s latest step reflects a strategic recalibration—reopening dialogue while holding firm on core concerns. Whether this diplomatic thaw can evolve into lasting cooperation remains a critical test for both nations.
