China Expands Visa-Free Entry to More European Countries: Full List

European travellers rejoice! China has expanded its visa-free entry program to include four additional European countries, making it easier than ever to explore the wonders of this vast nation.

This update provides the complete list of European countries now eligible for visa-free travel to China.

China Visa-Free Entry Initiative

This move, following the inclusion of seven other European nations and Malaysia in December 2023, aims to revitalize tourism and business travel.

Citizens of Austria, Belgium, Hungary, and Luxembourg can now join those from France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland, will now be permitted to enter China without the need for a visa

The initiative, announced in November, is part of China’s efforts to facilitate high-quality development in exchanges between Chinese and foreign individuals and enhance openness to the global community, as stated by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a briefing.

Under the trial program, visa-free entry will be granted for up to 15 days and will remain in effect for one year. Despite the lifting of strict pandemic measures and quarantine requirements for arrivals early last year, international travel to China has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Also Read: China Unveils 5 Visa Changes for Easier Travel: Re-Entry, Faster Visas, & More!

Recovering from the Pandemic

While China lifted strict pandemic measures in 2023, international travel has yet to fully rebound. Visa-free entry for Brunei and Singapore was reinstated in July, but Japan remains excluded from the program.

In 2023, China saw a significant drop in foreign entries compared to pre-pandemic levels (35.5 million vs. 97.7 million in 2019).

Attracting Investment and Tourists

China actively seeks foreign investment, and this visa-free program is expected to attract business travellers for meetings and trade fairs.

Additionally, Europe has shown increasing interest in China as a tourist destination, with a reported 663% rise in bookings from Europe in 2023 compared to the previous year. Popular destinations include Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Sanya, and Chengdu.

Investing in the Future of Tourism

To further entice European tourists, China is actively promoting its cultural and historical treasures. Investments are being made in tourism infrastructure, including technology, travel guides, and e-payment systems, to create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

So, pack your bags, Europe! China awaits with open arms (and a simplified entry process).