China extends visa-free stay until 2026 for 45 countries

China will extend its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries, including France, Germany, and Spain, until December 31, 2026, and will also extend it to Sweden from November 10, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Monday.

The extension applies to 32 European countries as well as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several countries in South America and the Gulf region. The policy was originally set to expire at the end of this year for many of these countries.

In recent years, China has introduced visa-free entry for citizens of numerous countries in order to attract foreign tourists, revive tourism after years of strict COVID-19 measures, and strengthen international contacts.

The program does not apply to the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Visitors from eligible countries may enter China for up to 30 days without a visa for business, tourism, family visits, or transit.

At the same time, Beijing is further expanding its cooperation with the European Union, an important trading partner, at a time of tense trade relations. China confirmed that the one-year suspension of extended export controls on rare earths will also apply to the EU, as agreed by representatives at a meeting in Brussels.

(reuters, lud)