China extends visa-free travel for Australians until 2026

Good news for travellers – China is keeping its visa-free entry scheme open for Australians and 44 other nations until the end of 2026 in a bid to boost tourism. 

Dreaming of dumplings, dazzling cityscapes and gilded temples? China has just made things easier. In a move to reignite inbound tourism, the country has extended its visa-free policy for travellers from 45 countries – including Australia and New Zealand.  

While the scheme was initially set to expire at the end of 2025, China’s foreign ministry has just announced it will extend the policy until 31 December 2026, and expand it to include Sweden. The extension will take effect on 10 November 2025. 

The Forbidden City in Beijing is one of China’s most famous attractions. (Image: Unsplash / Ling Tang)

This means visitors from eligible countries can keep travelling to China for up to 30 days without a visa – whether it’s for business in Beijing, to catch up with family or chase adventures. From the buzz of Chengdu’s night markets and glittering Shanghai, to ancient Xi’an and incredible natural spectacles, China is a fascinating playground packed with cultural and natural delights. 

A bid to boost tourism

China has extended its visa-free entry scheme until 2026. (Image: Unsplash / Annie Spratt)

After lingering blows from pandemic restrictions, China’s tourism industry is ready for a serious comeback. Recent years have seen China create several visa-free policies, including a unilateral 15-day visa-free scheme for French, German, Italian, Dutch, Spanish and Malaysian passport holders announced in 2023. 

Part of a wider vision to increase tourism, boost foreign engagement and strengthen bonds with key European Union partners, the visa-free extension is a clear signal: China wants travellers back.

Who’s part of the no-visa club?

Visiting the Great Wall of China just got easier. (Image: Unsplash / Robert Nyman)

Europe makes up a significant percentage of the list, with 32 of the 45 countries included in China’s visa-free entry scheme. Other countries in the policy include Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea, along with several nations in South America and the Gulf region. The scheme will also expand to cover Sweden.  

Notably, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada are not included in the policy – but for many other parts of the world, the Great Wall just got a little easier to climb.

Need to know

• China will extend its visa-free entry policy for 45 countries until 31 December 2026 
• Countries part of the scheme include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and 32 European nations 
• The extension is effective on 10 November 2025