China has just announced the extension of its visa-free travel program for 45 countries , including France, until December 31, 2026. This measure could transform how tourism professionals approach travel to China. A must-do, or a missed opportunity… here’s why.
Summary
What exactly does the measure entail and why is it strategic?
China has extended until the end of 2026 the visa-free entry policy for citizens of 45 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family purposes. Among the countries included are France, Germany, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. This decision reflects a desire to revive tourism and international trade after years of isolation due to health restrictions.
What are the immediate impacts for travel professionals?
- The "China" offer is once again a product with strong potential : the absence of a visa reduces a major obstacle to sales.
- Include the mention “China Visa” in your product sheets, sales pitches and marketing materials.
- Please note: certain formalities remain mandatory (insurance, accommodation, local registration). The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends having insurance that covers medical and repatriation expenses.
- For customers transiting through Hong Kong or Macao, or not meeting the exemption criteria, a standard visa is still required (average processing time: 4 days).
Discover our practical page on China and prepare your "China Visa" application here
Comparative table of the scenarios considered
| Scenario | Assumption | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|
| Strong acceleration | Numerous "China Visa" bookings within the last 6 months | Launch targeted campaigns, create “Visa-free China” tours, differentiate the offer |
| Moderate progression | Real interest, but formalities still hinder progress | Communicate clearly, reassure customers, include insurance in the packages |
| Limited effect | Exemption not well known to the general public | Maintain vigilance and promote “China Visa 2026” as a differentiating asset |
Frequently asked questions that your customers or partners will ask
1. What exactly is meant by "China Visa"?
This refers to the 30-day visa exemption for certain countries: entry into China does not require a formal visa for tourism, business or family visits, under specific conditions.
2. Can a "Visa-Free China" product be promoted immediately?
Yes, if your clientele is from one of the 45 countries concerned. However, you must check accommodation, insurance, and entry requirements before departure.
3. What formalities remain?
Return ticket, hotel reservation or proof of accommodation, medical insurance covering hospitalization/repatriation, and for some journeys via Hong Kong or Macao: a standard visa is required.
4. Does this measure cover all types of stays?
No: the exemption is limited to 30 days for tourism, business, visits, or transit. Long-term business trips or studies require a standard visa.
5. How to derive a commercial advantage from this?
By incorporating the "China Visa" into your communications: "simplified entry", "revived destination", "opportunity until the end of 2026". Combine it with an accommodation + insurance package.
Discover our practical page on China and prepare your "China Visa" application here
Concrete example: tourism revival and an opportunity to seize
The extension applies from November 10, 2025, for certain countries, including the newly added Sweden. For your French clients, this opens a new phase of easier access. For professionals (agencies, tour operators, hoteliers), you must adapt your "China Visa 2026" offers now: itineraries, communication, local partners, and insurance. This measure can become a major marketing tool for the 2026 season.
Key takeaways: your quick action plan
- Include "China Visa" in your product descriptions and digital campaigns.
- Check compliance with the exemption conditions (30 days, accepted reasons, countries concerned).
- Always include compliant insurance and accommodation.
- Train your advisors to explain the exemption and its limitations in simple terms.
- Communicate the limited duration of the benefit: valid until the end of 2026.
- Implement proactive monitoring of updates to the list of exempted countries.
- Create “China Visa – Simplified Entry” offers to differentiate yourself.
Updates
China extends visa-free entry for 45 countries until December 31, 2026. Sweden joins the scheme from November 10, 2025.
Sources
https://www.boursier.com/actualites/reuters/la-chine-prolonge-sa-politique-dexemption-de-visa-jusqua-fin-2026-405180.html
https://visasnews.com/en/china-extends-visa-free-policy-for-france-and-other-countries-until-december-31-2026/
https://www.abc.net.au/news/china-extends-visa-freee-policy-to-2026-australia-included/105968854
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