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China Extends Visa-Free Entry for 46 Countries Until 2026, Welcomes Sweden to the List

November 8, 2025 3:36 am

China Extends Visa-Free Entry for 46 Countries Until 2026, Welcomes Sweden to the List

China has taken a significant step to enhance its appeal to international travellers by extending visa-free entry for citizens from 46 countries, including major nations like France, Germany, and Japan. This policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2026, making it easier for millions to explore the rich culture and landscapes of China.

A notable introduction to this initiative is the new Digital Arrival Card, which simplifies the entry process by eliminating the need for paper forms at key airports.

Visa-Free Travel Extended for 46 Countries

The extension of visa-free travel allows citizens from 46 countries to enter China without a visa for short visits. These visitors can stay for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family reasons. This progressive measure reflects China’s commitment to fostering international relationships and encouraging tourism, especially as global travel restrictions ease.

Sweden Joins the Visa-Free List

In an exciting development, Sweden has been added to the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry. From November 10, 2025, Swedish citizens can enjoy a 30-day stay in China without needing a visa until the end of 2026. This addition further broadens the scope of this welcoming policy and highlights China’s desire to strengthen ties with more nations.

List of Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry

China’s extensive visa-free travel program now includes a diverse array of countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. The complete list encompasses:

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
Sweden
Switzerland
Uruguay

China’s New Digital Arrival Card System

In addition to the visa extension, China has introduced the Digital Arrival Card system for incoming travellers. This innovative online form replaces traditional paper documents, allowing visitors to complete their entry details, including health and travel history, via a mobile-friendly app prior to arrival. This transition to digital forms speeds up the immigration process and enhances the overall travel experience.

Major airports like Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, and Guangzhou Baiyun have already adopted the Digital Arrival Card system. Travellers can conveniently fill out their information on their smartphones or at designated airport kiosks.

Tourism and Travel Impact

Recent statistics from China’s National Immigration Administration reveal that over 7.25 million foreign visitors entered the country without a visa in the third quarter of 2025. This represents a remarkable 48% increase compared to the previous year, with visa-free entries now accounting for over 70% of total foreign arrivals. This dramatic rise illustrates how much easier it is for international travellers to visit China.

Final Thoughts

By extending its visa-free policy and embracing digital solutions, China is clearly eager to attract more international visitors. For travelers, this means reduced paperwork, shorter waiting times, and increased opportunities to explore the nation’s beauty and culture.

If you’re considering a trip to China, ensure your country is on the visa-free list and complete your Digital Arrival Card before you arrive. Embrace the adventure that awaits in this vibrant country!