China Extends Visa-Free Access for European Nations, Adding Sweden Through 2026

The government of the People's Republic of China has unveiled a major policy shift aimed at deepening global engagement and providing substantial support to its vital tourism sector. On Monday, Mao Ning, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), confirmed the extension and expansion of the existing visa-free entry program for citizens hailing from several European nations. This strategic decision is explicitly designed to significantly boost both business and personal exchanges between China and the European continent.

The current visa-waiver arrangement, which was initially set to expire, has now been prolonged for countries including France, with the new cutoff date set firmly at December 31, 2026. This significant extension offers travelers and investors a much more stable and long-term horizon for planning their activities and journeys. Under the terms of the program, citizens from the designated countries are permitted to enter and remain in the PRC for a duration of up to 30 days. This allowance covers various purposes, including tourism, conducting business, visiting family members, or simply transiting through the country.

Crucially, the list of eligible nations is being expanded to formally welcome Sweden. Swedish citizens will gain the privilege of visa-free entry starting from November 10, 2025. This inclusion is the direct result of high-level diplomatic discussions. The agreement was finalized following a productive dialogue held in October 2025 between Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, and Maria Malmer Stenergard, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Sweden. This move underscores Beijing's commitment to fostering stronger bilateral ties with key partners across the European Union.

This maneuver forms an integral component of Beijing’s broader diplomatic strategy to solidify its relationship with the European Union, particularly amidst ongoing complex economic negotiations. Authorities view the simplification of these travel formalities not merely as an administrative adjustment but as a powerful catalyst intended to revitalize the national economy. The hospitality industry, which experienced significant setbacks following periods of stringent pandemic restrictions, is expected to be a primary beneficiary. Historically, such measures have proven highly effective: a unilateral visa-free policy was first introduced for five European nations toward the end of 2023, demonstrating immediate positive results and setting the precedent for the current expansion.

While the removal of administrative barriers is a clear invitation for deeper interaction, foreign visitors must prepare for the realities of China’s modern commercial landscape. To fully engage with the fast-paced rhythm of life in Chinese cities, international guests often need to familiarize themselves with local digital payment platforms, such as WeChat Pay or AliPay. This adaptation is necessary because many establishments do not readily accept international credit cards or physical cash. By extending these commitments until the close of 2026, the Chinese government is laying a stable foundation that benefits all participants in international exchange, ensuring predictability and encouraging sustained engagement over the coming years.