China to waive visas for 6 countries including France from Dec 1
From December 1, citizens of six countries — including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia — can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days as Beijing seeks to boost tourism and trade.
Starting on December 1, passport holders from six countries — including France🇫🇷, Germany🇩🇪, Italy🇮🇹, the Netherlands🇳🇱, Spain🇪🇸, and Malaysia🇲🇾 — can travel to China without a visa for stays of up to 15 days. The initiative is designed to encourage economic and tourism exchanges between China and the selected countries.
French Foreign Minister Christine Colonna announced the move during an event marking the 60th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between France and China.
Business and tourist travel included
The visa exemption applies to a range of travel purposes including business visits, tourism, family visits, and transits. It covers travelers with ordinary passports recognized as valid by Chinese authorities.
The two countries also agreed that Chinese students who earn a master’s degree in France will be able to stay in France for an additional five years.
Long stays and other travel purposes
Travel longer than 15 days or visits for purposes not covered above still require applying for a visa from the appropriate Chinese authorities.
Visa-free transit
Previously, travelers from a limited set of countries could transit China without a visa for up to 144 hours. The new policy widens eligibility for more European and Malaysian nationals. Separately, travelers from about 50 countries — including France — remain eligible for a transit visa valid for 72–144 hours. Such visas allow short stays in a designated city or area, provided the traveler continues onward to a third country.
EU Chamber of Commerce urges broader visa-free access
While hailed as a practical step likely to bolster business confidence and attract foreign investment, the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China voiced hope that more European countries will soon benefit from visa-free entry.
Economic boost expected for China
Timed to ease an economy facing headwinds, these visa waivers should help China gradually revive growth while deepening political and trade ties with the selected partners. The policy will remain in a one-year trial period — through November 30, 2024 — according to the Chinese embassy in Paris.
Announcement from the Embassy of China in France
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