China Visa: Exemption extended for citizens of 45 countries until December 31, 2026

China recently announced the extension of its visa-free entry policy for citizens of forty-five countries, a measure that will remain in force until December 31, 2026. This initiative was introduced with the specific aim of encouraging tourism, cultural exchanges and business, following the relaxation of travel restrictions linked to COVID-19.

Following the Press Conference November 03, 2025Mao Ning, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed the extension of visa-free travel for several nationalities.

What nationalities are involved?

The extension covers a wide range of nations. European countries include France, Germany and Spain. Notably, the Suede will be added to the list of beneficiaries from November 10, 2025. A total of thirty-two European countries are involved, in addition to key non-European countries such as the United States and Japan.Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Koreaas well as several nations in South America and the Gulf region.

Eligible travellers may enter China for a maximum period of thirty days without having to obtain a visa first, for a variety of reasons including tourism, family visits, transit or business. To benefit from this exemption, travelers must be in possession of biometric passports and meet standard entry requirements.

Visa exemption to boost tourism in China

This decision reflects China's broader strategy to relaunch its tourism sector one of the world's largest, which was severely impacted by the strict controls imposed during the pandemic.

1. Simplifying entry formalities : The easing of administrative procedures is designed to reduce bureaucratic barriers and meet the growing demand from travelers for greater flexibility and convenience in international mobility.
2. European commitment : By maintaining preferential entry conditions, China seeks to tap into the substantial European travel market. The inclusion of Sweden, in particular, aims to foster deeper engagement with Scandinavia and the Nordic region.
3. Diplomatic and commercial support : Visa facilitation is also a lever that supports commercial and economic interactions, facilitating business travel and cultural cooperation. This is taking place in a complex geopolitical context where China-EU trade relations are experiencing challenges, but also cautious efforts to maintain dialogue and stability. The visa policy thus illustrates China's commitment to openness and partnership.

Facilitating international travel

For travellers, this program offers greater convenience about administrative formalities when planning international trips. For the Chinese economy, the expected increase in visitor numbers should generate measurable benefits for a variety of sectors, including the hotel, retail, transport and cultural industries.

It is essential to stress, however, that this visa waiver program does not include countries such as the United States and Canada. United States, Canada and the United Kingdomwhose citizens are still required to obtain traditional visas to travel to China.

• China

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