Published on
November 5, 2025
In a groundbreaking move to enhance global connectivity and tourism, China has extended its visa-free entry policy to 45 countries, including France, Germany, Japan, Bahrain, Australia, New Zealand, and more. This bold step, effective until December 31, 2026, allows citizens from these nations to travel to China for up to 30 days without the need for a visa, significantly simplifying travel for business, tourism, and family visits. The extension not only opens up exciting new travel opportunities but also strengthens China’s position as a leading destination for international visitors, fostering closer ties with key global partners and boosting tourism across the region.
China Extends Visa-Free Policy to 45 Countries, Welcoming More Global Visitors Through 2026
As part of its ongoing efforts to bolster international tourism and strengthen global ties, China has extended its visa-free entry policy for an additional year, now set to remain in place until December 31, 2026. The policy, which was initially slated to end in 2025, allows citizens from 45 countries to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days, a move that aims to further attract international tourists and foster greater connectivity between China and key global partners.
Among the significant updates, Sweden has been added to the list of countries eligible for visa-free access, expanding the policy’s reach into more European markets. With the extension, China is further solidifying its relationship with the European Union, one of its primary trading blocs, while simultaneously boosting its tourism potential.
Details of the Extended Visa-Free Policy
China’s newly extended visa-free policy covers travelers from 45 countries worldwide. Visitors from these countries can now stay in China for up to 30 days for business, tourism, or family visits without the need for a visa. In total, the extended policy includes nations from Europe, Asia, and beyond. Here are some of the key countries included:
European Countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Greece, Poland, Portugal, Finland, Sweden, and many more.Asian Countries: Japan, South Korea, and Bahrain.Other Key Global Partners: Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil, and others.
This expansion underscores China’s commitment to enhancing its tourism offerings while maintaining close ties with countries across continents. The inclusion of Sweden is especially notable, as it strengthens China’s ties with Scandinavian countries and further broadens the appeal of China as a travel destination for Europeans.
Enhanced Transit and Travel Flexibility
In addition to the extended visa-free policy, China is expanding its 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit program, which previously applied to select cities and transport hubs. This change will now cover more ports and allow travelers to stay for up to 10 days without a visa while waiting for onward travel arrangements. This initiative is particularly beneficial for international visitors passing through China en route to other destinations in Asia or beyond.
Newly added ports under this expanded program include popular entry points like Guangzhou, Zhuhai’s Hengqin, and Zhongshan, as well as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link. This expansion not only enhances the convenience for travelers but also provides smoother transit through China’s transport hubs, further positioning the country as an ideal stopover location for long-haul international travel.
Aiming for Growth in International Tourism
With these policy adjustments, China aims to strengthen its position as a global tourism destination, offering increased accessibility to travelers from around the world. The extended visa-free policy is expected to stimulate interest in both business and leisure travel, bringing more international visitors to China’s cultural landmarks, business districts, and tourist hotspots.
Key destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu are expected to see increased foot traffic from travelers taking advantage of the easier entry requirements. For those looking to explore the historical wonders of China, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, this visa-free policy offers a convenient gateway to immerse in the country’s rich heritage.
Moreover, with the Chinese government focusing on revitalizing tourism in the post-pandemic era, the visa-free policy aims to make travel to China more seamless, convenient, and attractive for tourists from eligible countries.
What This Means for Travelers
For travelers from the countries listed under the extended visa-free policy, this move provides greater ease and flexibility when planning trips to China. Whether they’re interested in business, cultural exploration, or family visits, they can now bypass the lengthy visa application process and travel to one of the world’s most fascinating destinations with fewer hurdles.
For those planning longer stays or more complex travel arrangements, the expanded transit visa program adds yet another layer of convenience, allowing for more extended stays while waiting for connecting flights or other travel plans.
China has extended its visa-free entry policy to 45 countries, including France, Germany, Japan, Bahrain, Australia, and New Zealand, offering up to 30 days of hassle-free travel. This move boosts tourism and strengthens global connections, making China more accessible than ever before.
China’s extension of its visa-free entry policy is a step forward in making the country more accessible to the global community. By adding Sweden to the list and expanding transit hubs, China continues to position itself as a premier destination for international tourists. As this policy unfolds, more countries may see China as an attractive travel destination, helping to stimulate its economy, support the tourism industry, and reinforce its global influence.
