China extends visa-free entry policy for several countries until 2026 – check details

China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for several countries, including France, allowing travellers to visit without a visa until December 31, 2026. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed that Sweden will join the visa-free list starting from November 10.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning shared the update during a press briefing on Monday. The policy, which was earlier set to expire at the end of 2024, lets visitors from eligible countries stay in China for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits, or transit.

Expanding Visa-Free Access

China’s visa-free policy now covers citizens from dozens of countries across Europe, the Gulf, South America, and the Asia-Pacific.

This move is part of Beijing’s effort to revive its tourism industry, which was heavily affected by the pandemic. By easing entry rules, China hopes to attract more international visitors and rebuild global connections.

The extension also reflects China’s efforts to strengthen ties with the European Union (EU), one of its main trading partners. After recent high-level meetings in Brussels, China has eased export restrictions on certain rare minerals for Europe. Analysts believe this visa policy will help boost tourism, trade, and diplomatic relations with European nations.

Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry Until 2026

Citizens from the following countries can visit China without a visa for up to 30 days:
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.

This latest step is expected to boost tourism, support global economic recovery, and strengthen China’s international relations over the next two years.

Read More: PM’s Defamation Case Nears End After 8 Years: Atta Tarar