Beijing approves 72-hour visa waiver for tourists

Foreign tourists from 45 countries will be able to enjoy a 72-hour visa-free stay in Beijing from Jan 1, the city government announced Wednesday morning. 

The policy is aimed at making Beijing more accessible to the world and is expected to attract more overseas travelers.

However, visitors without a visa will not be allowed to travel outside the capital once they arrive. Doing so will be deemed illegal entry, the government said.