China Extends Visa-Free Policy for 45 Countries Until End of 2026, Adds Sweden

Policy Extension Announced

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning announced on Monday, November 3, 2025, that the country will extend its visa-free entry policy for citizens of 45 countries until December 31, 2026. This move aims to facilitate cross-border travel and expand high-standard opening up, according to official statements. The policy, which was initially set to expire at the end of 2025 for many of these nations, allows for stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, or transit.

Included Nations and New Additions

The extended visa-free policy applies to a broad range of countries across Europe, Asia, Oceania, and South America. The 45 countries benefiting from this extension include:

• 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
• Uruguay

Additionally, Sweden will be newly included in China's visa-free program, with its citizens eligible for visa-free entry from November 10, 2025, until December 31, 2026.

Objectives Behind the Extension

The decision to prolong the visa-free policy underscores China's commitment to reviving its tourism industry and strengthening international engagement following years of pandemic-related restrictions. Spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the extension is intended 'to implement the guiding principles of the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, expand high-standard opening up, and continue to facilitate cross-border travel.' This initiative is part of Beijing's broader efforts to attract more foreign visitors and investment while easing diplomatic strains.

Policy Details and Background

The unilateral visa exemption policy allows ordinary passport holders from the eligible countries to enter China without a visa for up to 30 days. The initial experimental visa waiver for countries like France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia was introduced in December 2023, initially for 15 days, and later expanded to 30 days and more countries from November 30, 2024. This latest extension ensures the continuation of these facilitated entry conditions for an additional year.