China’s outbound tourism is rebounding strongly, with visa application volumes in Q1 2026 nearly returning to 2019 levels, according to VFS Global. Schengen visa applications rose 20% YoY, and COO Simon Peachey expects overall performance to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year. Canada, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the UK, and the US remain top destinations, driven by study abroad, family visits, and business travel. Despite geopolitical uncertainty and rising airfares, Chinese airlines are expanding overseas routes. Retirees have emerged as a major segment, accounting for over one-third of visa applicants since last year, favoring long-haul European cultural trips and cruises.

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