China has announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for citizens from 45 countries, including Australia, France, Germany, and Sweden, until December 31, 2026. This policy, set to take effect on November 10, was confirmed by the foreign ministry on Monday. The decision aims to bolster tourism and international engagement as the country continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The extension encompasses 32 European nations, alongside countries in South America, the Gulf region, and key Asia-Pacific partners such as New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea. Under this policy, visitors from the eligible countries can enter China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit for up to 30 days without needing a visa.
Boosting Tourism and International Relations
The move is part of China’s broader strategy to rejuvenate its tourism industry, which was severely affected by stringent COVID-19 restrictions. By offering visa-free entry, China hopes to attract more foreign visitors and strengthen its international ties. The United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, however, remain excluded from this arrangement.
In recent years, China has actively sought to enhance its relationships with the European Union, a critical trading partner. This comes amid ongoing global trade tensions. Notably, Beijing has agreed to suspend its expanded rare earth export controls to the EU, a decision made following discussions between Chinese President Xi Jinping and former US President Donald Trump.
Economic Implications
According to the National Immigration Administration, more than 20 million foreign visitors entered China without a visa in 2024, representing nearly one-third of the total foreign arrivals and more than double the previous year’s figures. This surge is expected to continue, with travel companies and tour guides preparing for an increased influx of tourists, particularly during peak holiday seasons.
“The visa-free policy has significantly boosted tourism,” said a spokesperson from Trip.com Group, a leading online travel agency based in Shanghai. “Air, hotel, and other bookings for travel to China doubled in the first three months of this year compared to last year, with 75% of the visitors coming from visa-free regions.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. Most tourist sites in China still see a higher number of domestic tourists compared to international visitors. However, the extended visa-free policy is expected to gradually shift this balance, enticing more international travelers to explore China’s rich cultural and historical landmarks.
Experts believe that this policy could serve as a model for other countries looking to boost tourism post-pandemic. “China’s approach to easing travel restrictions while maintaining health protocols could inspire similar strategies globally,” noted Dr. Li Wei, a professor of international tourism at Beijing University.
Looking Ahead
As China continues to open its doors to the world, the extended visa-free policy is likely to play a pivotal role in strengthening its global presence and economic recovery. The Chinese government has emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication with international partners to ensure the stability and smooth operation of industrial and supply chains.
With the policy set to remain in place until the end of 2026, the coming years will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of these measures on China’s tourism industry and its broader economic landscape. As the world adapts to new travel norms, China’s initiative may well set a precedent for international tourism and diplomatic engagement.
