China allows visa-free travel for five European countries
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Jan 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 27
China has introduced visa-free access for citizens of 38 European countries, along with select nations from other continents, allowing short stays of up to 30 days.
China has recently introduced new visa-free entry for citizens of five European nations: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.
This policy, implemented to boost tourism, allows eligible travelers to visit for short stays without the usual visa application process. The move aligns with China's broader strategy to attract international visitors post-pandemic.
China has also resumed issuing various visa types, including tourist and multi-entry visas, and extended the validity of previously issued visas. These changes reflect efforts to revitalize its tourism industry.
38 European countries
Citizens of 38 European countries can now stay in China visa-free for up to 30 days, as part of China's efforts to boost tourism and strengthen international ties.
The full list of eligible European countries includes: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Switzerland. Tourists from these countries can enjoy short-term stays in China without a visa until the end of next year.
Revitalize its tourism
In addition to European nations, China has extended visa-free entry privileges to countries from other continents. These include Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates from Asia; Brazil and Argentina from South America; South Africa and Mauritius from Africa; and the Bahamas, Barbados, and Fiji from the Americas and Oceania. This initiative reflects China’s broader strategy to revitalize its tourism industry and enhance global connections.
