China extends visa-free entry policy for several countries until December 2026

China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for several countries, including France, which will now remain in effect until December 31, 2026.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sweden will also be added to the scheme, with implementation starting from November 10.

Speaking at a routine press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning confirmed the extension. The policy, previously valid until the end of 2024, allows eligible travellers to visit China for up to 30 days without a visa for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, or transit.

Visa-free access expands to dozens of countries

China’s visa-free policy applies to citizens of dozens of countries across Europe, the Gulf, South America, and the Asia-Pacific region. The move forms part of Beijing’s broader strategy to revive the tourism sector hit by the pandemic. By lifting visa restrictions, China aims to attract more foreign visitors and restore pre-pandemic international engagement.

The extension comes as China seeks to strengthen ties with the European Union, one of its key trading partners. Following recent high-level meetings in Brussels, China has eased export restrictions on rare minerals for European countries, and both sides have agreed to maintain communication to ensure industrial and supply chain stability. Analysts suggest that China’s visa policy will not only boost tourism but also enhance public and trade relations with European countries.

Countries eligible for visa-free entry until December 31, 2026

The countries whose citizens can travel to China without a visa for up to 30 days include Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, and Uruguay. Pakistan is not included in this list.

Eligible travellers may stay in China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit purposes for up to 30 days without a visa. This latest measure is expected to boost tourism while also supporting global economic recovery and strengthening diplomatic relations.