China extends visa-free entry policy until 2026, adds Sweden to the scheme — here’s what travelers need to know

China broadens its visa-free travel policy to more than 40 countries — making it easier for global visitors to explore the world’s second-largest economy through 2026.

In a major push to revive international tourism and strengthen global ties, China has extended its visa-free entry policy for citizens from more than 40 countries until December 31, 2026, adding Sweden to the list of eligible nations, according to the government official. The announcement underscores Beijing’s commitment to greater openness, cross-border exchange, and post-pandemic recovery of its travel and hospitality sectors.

The extended visa-free policy allows travelers from 32 European nations — including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain — along with non-European countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and select Gulf and South American nations, to stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits.

New Ports and Transit Flexibility

China has also expanded its 240-hour visa-free transit program to more entry points, making travel smoother for foreign visitors. Five new ports have been added — Guangzhou, Zhuhai’s Hengqin and Zhongshan, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the West Kowloon Station of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link.

This expansion increases the total number of ports eligible for visa-free transit from 60 to 65, enabling visitors from 55 countries to stay in China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa before continuing to a third destination.

Additionally, 10 more international airports in cities like Tianjin, Nanjing, and Chongqing will now allow 24-hour direct transits without border checks, simplifying entry for short-term travelers.

Digital Convenience for Travelers

In a bid to make travel even more seamless, starting November 20, 2025, foreign travelers will be able to complete their entry cards online before arrival. They can also choose to fill them out electronically at inspection points or use traditional paper cards.

Boost to Tourism and Business Mobility

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the visa extension aligns with the country’s high-level opening-up policy and its broader economic goals outlined by the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee.

According to the National Immigration Administration (NIA), foreign nationals made 7.25 million visits to China under visa-free policies in Q3 2025, marking a 48.3% year-on-year increase. These visits accounted for 72.2% of all foreign entries, highlighting the growing popularity of China as a global travel destination.

The visa-free scheme is also expected to stimulate growth across sectors like hospitality, retail, transportation, and cultural industries, while encouraging business travel, conferences, educational exchanges, and family reunions.

Strategic Diplomacy and Global Engagement

The inclusion of Sweden and the extension for European nations reflect China’s focus on maintaining strong China-EU relations amid global economic challenges. While the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom remain excluded from the current list, the move signals China’s intent to foster stability, trade cooperation, and people-to-people connectivity with key global partners.

A Step Toward Openness

By simplifying entry processes, expanding digital access, and enhancing cross-border mobility, China is reinforcing its role as a welcoming destination for global travelers and investors. As the world’s second-largest economy reopens further, these initiatives are expected to significantly boost both tourism revenues and international confidence in the nation’s continued global engagement.