In a move aimed at strengthening international mobility and economic engagement, China has extended its 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of France and 44 other countries through December 31, 2026. The policy, which was initially scheduled to expire at the close of 2025, will now remain in effect for an additional year, according to an announcement made by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a press briefing on Monday.
The extension is part of Beijing’s broader strategy to enhance cross-border exchanges and promote high-level openness, aligning with the directives set forth during the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Mao emphasized that the decision reflects China’s commitment to facilitating international travel and deepening global cooperation.
Visa-Free Access Expanded to 45 Countries
The updated policy applies to travelers from a diverse group of 45 countries and territories, including France, Germany, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia. Citizens of these nations are permitted to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family.
The full list includes: 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.
Sweden Joins Visa-Free List Starting November 10
In addition to the extension, China has also added Sweden to its visa-free entry program. Beginning November 10, 2025, Swedish passport holders will be eligible for 30-day stays in China without a visa, with the policy valid through the end of 2026. This inclusion further expands the reach of China’s visa facilitation efforts and signals a continued push to attract more international visitors.
Tourism and Business Travel on the Rise
Recent figures from China’s National Immigration Administration highlight the growing impact of visa-free travel. In the third quarter of 2025 alone, 7.25 million foreign nationals entered China under visa exemption arrangements — a 48.3% increase compared to the same period in 2024. These travelers accounted for more than 72% of all foreign arrivals during that time, underscoring the role of simplified entry policies in boosting tourism and business activity.
Chinese officials view the surge in visa-free entries as a validation of the country’s open-door approach. The policy not only supports the recovery of the tourism sector but also enhances China’s global connectivity and soft power.
Looking Ahead
As global travel continues to rebound, China’s decision to extend and expand its visa-free policy positions the country as a more accessible destination for international visitors. With the inclusion of Sweden and the continuation of visa-free access for key global partners, Beijing is signaling its intent to remain a central player in global tourism, trade, and diplomacy.
The move is expected to further stimulate inbound travel, foster people-to-people exchanges, and contribute to the broader goal of building a more interconnected global economy.
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