China has officially extended its visa-free travel policy until December 31, 2026, reinforcing its efforts to stimulate international tourism, support global mobility, and strengthen cross-border cooperation.

This development represents an important opportunity for travelers and businesses seeking easier access to China, while also highlighting the need to clearly understand China visa rules and travel limitations.

Under the extended policy, eligible travelers may enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, depending on nationality and purpose of travel.

The initiative simplifies short-term travel planning and positions China as a more accessible destination for international visitors.

Who Can Travel to China Without a Visa?

The updated China visa-free policy currently applies to citizens of 46 countries, with Sweden added most recently, effective November 10, 2025.

Travelers from eligible countries may enter China for:

• Tourism

• Business visits

• Family visits

• Cultural or educational exchanges

• Transit

The visa-free entry remains valid until the end of 2026, offering greater flexibility for short-term stays and regional travel planning.

Compliance Rules Travelers Should Know

While visa-free travel to China offers significant convenience, it also comes with strict compliance requirements.

Travelers entering China without a visa must not engage in any employment activities, whether paid or unpaid.

Any form of work, local service delivery, or long-term assignment is not permitted under the visa-free regime.

Violations of these rules may result in:

• Fines

• Deportation

• Restrictions on future entry

Both individual travelers and companies are advised to carefully assess the purpose of travel before departure.

Employers sending staff to China should ensure that business trips fall within the scope of allowed activities. If work-related tasks are involved, the appropriate China work visa or residence permit must be secured in advance.

List of Countries Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to China

At present, the following countries are included in China’s visa-free travel program:

• 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

Travelers should always verify eligibility and entry requirements prior to travel, as immigration policies may change.

Special Visa-Free Travel for Russian Citizens

In addition to the general policy, Russian passport holders are covered under a separate visa-free arrangement announced in September 2025.

Between September 15, 2025, and September 14, 2026, Russian citizens may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for:

• Business

• Tourism

• Family visits

• Cultural or educational exchanges

• Transit

This arrangement will expire earlier than the general visa-free policy, making it especially important for travelers to plan ahead.

What This Means for Travelers and Businesses

The extension of China’s visa-free policy supports short-term mobility and international cooperation, particularly for travelers seeking simplified entry procedures.

For businesses, it creates opportunities for:

• Meetings

• Market research

• Relationship building

Travel activities must remain compliant with immigration regulations.

Understanding the difference between visa-free travel and visa-required employment is essential to avoiding unnecessary risks and travel disruptions.

Disclaimer

*This article is intended for informational purposes only and provides a general overview of current visa-free travel policies for China.Travel conditions, eligibility criteria, and entry rules may vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances.

If planning travel to China and guidance is needed on visa options, travel eligibility, or documentation requirements, the Easytovisa team is available to help navigate the process and make informed decisions based on specific travel plans.