China prolongs visa-free entry for dozens of countries, adds Sweden to the list

China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for business, tourism, family visits or transit for up to 30 days for citizens of 45 countries — including France, Germany and Spain — until Dec. 31, 2026. The policy will also be expanded to include Sweden starting Nov. 10, 2025, Reuters reported.

According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry’s Department of Consular Affairs, 32 European nations are eligible for the extension, along with Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and several countries in South America and the Gulf region. Notably, under the original plan, the program was scheduled to expire for many of these countries by the end of this year.

The move underscores China’s continued efforts to attract foreign visitors, revive its tourism industry — which has been severely affected by years of strict COVID-19 controls — and strengthen international engagement.

Separately, in September, South Korea launched a visa-free policy for Chinese tourists traveling in groups, valid until June 30, 2026, allowing them to stay for 15 days. This move was first announced in August, following China’s decision announced in November 2024 to grant visa-free entry to South Korean nationals.