China extends visa-free entry for short trips through the end of 2026
If you have been eyeing China for a while, 2026 might be a convenient time for a trip: the country has extended its unilateral visa-free regime for citizens of 45 countries until December 31, 2026. For tourists, this means fewer formalities before traveling — but only if your passport is on the list and meets the program requirements.
Who can enter without a visa
The rule applies to holders of ordinary passports from specified countries. The list includes, among others, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Portugal, Norway, Sweden, and several other European states.
Ukraine is not mentioned in the published list of 45 countries. Therefore, for Ukrainian citizens, the mere fact of the visa extension does not mean automatic rights to enter without a visa — it is important to focus on citizenship and passport type, rather than the route or country of residence.
For how long and for what purpose
Visa-free entry allows you to stay in China for no more than 30 days. The trip can be for tourism, business, visiting relatives or friends, exchange, or transit.
This is a good option for an action-packed vacation: you can combine Beijing and Shanghai, add Xi'an, Chengdu, or southern cities — without applying for a separate tourist visa for each short trip. But 30 days is the maximum period, not a recommendation: exceeding it without proper permission is not allowed.
Is it worth going
Yes, if you have a passport from a participating country, plan a short trip, and want to see China without lengthy visa preparations. The extension of the regime until the end of 2026 provides more freedom in choosing dates and allows for calmer route planning.
However, if you are counting on a long stay, studying, working, or a purpose that is not included in the allowed list, visa-free entry will not be suitable. In such cases, a corresponding Chinese visa is required before arrival.
So, China is indeed worth a trip — especially if you are attracted to big cities, ancient history, and a completely different travel rhythm, and your passport grants you the right to a 30-day visa-free stay. Would you choose Beijing, Shanghai, or a completely different route?