China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for several countries, including France, which will now remain in effect until December 31, 2026. According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sweden has also been added to the program, with implementation scheduled to begin on November 10. The extension was confirmed by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a routine press briefing.
Originally set to expire at the end of 2024, the policy now allows eligible travelers to enter China for up to 30 days without a visa for purposes such as business, tourism, family visits, or transit. The visa-free scheme applies to dozens of countries across Europe, the Gulf region, South America, and the Asia-Pacific.
Authorities say the initiative is part of China’s broader strategy to revive its tourism sector—which was severely impacted by the pandemic—and restore pre-pandemic levels of international connectivity. The policy also aligns with Beijing’s aim to attract more foreign visitors and strengthen global economic engagement.
The decision comes at a time when China is working to deepen its ties with the European Union, one of its key trade partners. Following recent high-level meetings in Brussels, China eased export restrictions on rare minerals for European countries, with both sides agreeing to maintain cooperation for industrial and supply chain stability.
Analysts believe the extended visa-free policy will not only boost tourism but also enhance people-to-people exchanges and trade relations between China and European nations.
Citizens of the following countries can now travel to China without a visa until December 31, 2026:
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 the list.
This latest move is expected to support global tourism revival, strengthen diplomatic ties, and help boost international economic activity.
