This paper uses CiteSpace software to conduct a visual knowledge graph analysis of 867 documents related to the internationalization of higher vocational education from 2001 to 2024, sourced from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database. The research identifies three stages in the development of the field: the incubation stage, the growth stage, and the stabilization stage. The research hotspots are closely aligned with national policies. However, the field currently faces significant challenges, including superficial integration with national strategies, weak collaboration among research entities, and limited diversity in research methods. To advance the internationalization of higher vocational education research, it is recommended that future research focus on in-depth empirical analysis of the application effects and impact mechanisms of national policies. Furthermore, it is suggested that collaboration among research entities be strengthened, and the use of empirical methods be enhanced.