China Extends Visa-Free Entry for 40+ Countries Until 2026

China has decided to extend its visa-free entry policy for travelers from several countries, including France, until December 31, 2026. The program, which has already benefited millions of visitors, will also be expanded to include Sweden starting November 10, according to an announcement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

This decision reflects Beijing’s continued effort to make international travel easier and to encourage more people from around the world to visit China for business, tourism, family visits, or short-term transit.

Official Announcement from the Chinese Government

During a regular press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning confirmed that the visa-free entry policy would remain in effect for two more years. She emphasized that this decision aims to deepen international cooperation, promote people-to-people connections, and support economic recovery in the post-pandemic era.

The policy, which was originally scheduled to expire at the end of 2024, allows eligible travelers to enter and stay in China for up to 30 days without applying for a visa. This benefit applies to short business trips, sightseeing, visiting relatives, or simply stopping over in China while traveling to another country.

Mao Ning noted that China is committed to creating a more open and friendly environment for international visitors, adding that the country welcomes tourists, investors, and students who contribute to cross-cultural understanding and trade growth.

Reviving Tourism and Global Connections

China’s tourism sector was one of the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict travel restrictions and long quarantines limiting the number of visitors for nearly three years. Since reopening its borders, China has focused on reviving international tourism and restoring the confidence of global travelers.

The visa-free policy has already shown promising results. In the first half of 2025, China recorded a significant increase in international arrivals, especially from European and Asian countries. Many travelers found it easier to plan spontaneous trips to Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu without the lengthy visa process.

Officials believe that extending the visa-free policy will help China reach pre-pandemic tourism levels by the end of 2026. It is also expected to boost airline travel, hotel bookings, cultural exchanges, and local businesses that depend heavily on international tourists.

Strengthening Ties with the European Union

The extension also comes at a time when China is actively enhancing relations with the European Union (EU)—a crucial economic and political partner. Recent high-level talks held in Brussels focused on trade stability, investment cooperation, and environmental collaboration.

During these discussions, China reportedly agreed to suspend expanded rare earth export controls for EU member states, signaling a more cooperative approach in trade relations. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to keep communication channels open to ensure industrial and supply chain stability.

Analysts see the visa-free extension as part of this diplomatic outreach, designed to build trust and goodwill between China and Europe. Allowing easier travel for EU citizens encourages business visits, joint projects, and educational exchanges—further strengthening the bond between China and European countries.

Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Travel to China (Until December 31, 2026)

Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Asia-Pacific and Middle East: Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia.

South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay.

Travelers from these countries can enter China for up to 30 days without applying for a visa for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, or transit.

Why This Policy Matters

By extending this visa-free policy, China aims to achieve several important goals:

1. Boost Tourism Revenue: Easier travel encourages more foreign tourists to visit China’s historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders, helping local economies recover.
2. Encourage Business and Investment: Visa-free entry supports short business trips, making it simpler for foreign investors and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in China.
3. Strengthen Diplomacy: The initiative builds stronger relationships with partner nations, particularly in Europe and Asia.
4. Promote Cultural Exchange: It allows people from different countries to experience Chinese traditions, festivals, and cuisine, improving mutual understanding.
5. Support Economic Recovery: Tourism and international engagement play a key role in boosting China’s post-pandemic economic growth.

China’s Vision for the Future

The Chinese government’s long-term goal is to make travel easier, safer, and more inclusive. Officials say the country is considering further steps, such as expanding e-visa services and introducing multi-entry travel options for frequent visitors.

China’s broader plan also includes improving tourism infrastructure, upgrading airports and public transportation, and creating more English-friendly travel environments for global tourists.

As the world continues to reconnect after years of travel restrictions, China’s decision to extend its visa-free policy sends a clear message—it wants to welcome the world with open arms. The move is widely viewed as a positive step toward global cooperation, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism growth.

China’s decision to extend the visa-free entry policy until December 31, 2026, and add Sweden to the list of eligible countries is a strategic and welcoming gesture. It aims to make travel easier, encourage economic partnerships, and strengthen global ties.

With more than 40 countries now enjoying visa-free access, China continues to position itself as a key global destination for travelers, investors, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

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