Summary: China has expanded its visa-free entry policy to include all Nordic nations—Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden—allowing ordinary passport holders to stay up to 30 days for specified short-term purposes through December 31, 2026.

China visa-free entry rules have been broadened to cover the five Nordic countries. The change, announced on February 16, 2026, permits citizens of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden to enter China without a visa for visits lasting up to 30 days.

Who the New Policy Covers

The expansion applies to ordinary passport holders from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. It forms part of a wider temporary exemption that now covers 50 countries overall and remains in effect until December 31, 2026.

Permitted Visit Purposes and Limits

Under the updated rules, Nordic visitors may enter China visa-free for a range of short-term activities provided their stay does not exceed 30 days. Allowed purposes include tourism, business, visiting family or friends, exchanges, transit, sports competitions, conferences, exhibitions and study tours.

  • Duration: Up to 30 days per visit
  • Eligible passport holders: Ordinary passports from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden
  • Covered purposes: tourism, business, family visits, exchanges, transit, sports events, conferences, exhibitions and study tours

Travelers are advised to carry documentation supporting their trip—such as return tickets, hotel reservations or event invitations—to facilitate immigration checks on arrival.

Nordic travelers exploring an urban area in China, reflecting visa-free travel from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland
Nordic visitors will be able to enter China for short stays of up to 30 days without a visa under the temporary policy

Important Exclusions and Conditions

The visa-free exemption does not cover employment, formal study, or journalistic work. Travelers intending to work, study long-term, or perform news reporting in China must still obtain the appropriate visa before or during their stay.

Why China Is Adjusting Entry Rules

Officials framed the expansion as part of broader efforts to deepen diplomatic and economic engagement with the Nordic region. China is aiming to make short-term travel for tourism, business and cultural exchange easier as it strengthens ties with Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.

Practical Guidance for Travelers

  • Bring supporting documents such as tickets, hotel bookings or event invitations.
  • Do not plan to work, study, or report news under the visa-free arrangement.
  • If you need to stay beyond 30 days, apply for an extension or an appropriate visa.
  • Check for any health protocols or entry updates before travel.

Although this visa exemption runs through December 31, 2026, travelers should monitor official guidance for any changes and verify local health or entry requirements before departure.

Conclusion — What This Means for Travelers and Industry

The temporary expansion of China visa-free entry to Nordic citizens simplifies short-term travel and is likely to encourage more spontaneous visits for tourism, business meetings and cultural exchange. For travel industry stakeholders, easier access may translate into new route opportunities and stronger bilateral cooperation.

So what? Nordic travelers gain more flexibility for brief trips to China, while businesses and cultural organisations can expect smoother short-term exchanges. Those planning longer stays, employment or journalistic assignments must still secure the correct visas before travel.