URGENT UPDATE: China has just announced an extension of its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, now set to last until December 31, 2026. This significant move, effective November 10, aims to bolster the nation’s tourism sector and enhance foreign engagement following years of strict COVID-19 controls.
The visa-free entry scheme will now also include Sweden, expanding its reach across 32 European nations, as well as countries like Japan, South Korea, and several states in South America and the Gulf region. Previously, the policy was set to expire at the end of this year for many of these nations, making this extension a critical development for international travelers.
Under this policy, eligible visitors can enter China for up to 30 days without a visa, facilitating travel for business, tourism, family visits, or transit. However, it’s important to note that citizens from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are excluded from this arrangement, which may impact their travel plans.
This strategic decision is part of China’s broader efforts to revive its tourism industry, which has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. The move also demonstrates China’s increasing outreach to the European Union, a vital trading partner, amid ongoing trade tensions.
In a related development, China confirmed that its one-year suspension of expanded rare earth export controls will also apply to the European Union. This announcement followed a meeting between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump in South Korea last week, emphasizing China’s commitment to maintaining stable trading relations.
As travel resumes and international connections strengthen, this policy extension highlights China’s desire to welcome back tourists and foster economic recovery. Travelers from the newly included countries are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to explore China freely.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and share this news to keep others informed about these critical changes in travel policy!
