France And Germany Joins UAE, Sweden, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, And Over Sixty-Seven Countries In Accelerating China Tourism In 2025 With Unprecedented New Visa-Free Access

Published on December 24, 2025

France and Germany joins UAE, Sweden, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, and over sixty-seven countries in accelerating China tourism in 2025 with unprecedented new visa-free access, significantly boosting international travel to the country. This groundbreaking move, part of China’s strategic effort to open its doors wider to global visitors, has already led to a surge in foreign arrivals, creating exciting new opportunities for cultural exchange, business, and leisure. With countries across Europe, Asia, and beyond benefiting from simplified entry requirements, China is set to become one of the world’s top destinations for international travelers in 2025.

In 2025, China is set to become one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, thanks to an impressive surge in international arrivals, powered by the government’s proactive efforts to streamline visa policies. As part of these ambitious plans, France and Germany are among the countries that have joined forces with over sixty-seven nations, including the UAE, Sweden, Russia, South Korea, and the Netherlands, to accelerate China’s tourism growth. This unprecedented global cooperation is expected to not only drive foreign visitor numbers but also spark a transformative moment for China’s tourism industry.

China’s Strategic Push to Boost Tourism

In recent years, China has made significant strides to position itself as an appealing destination for international travelers. With a rapidly expanding global tourism market, the country’s government has been focusing on initiatives designed to improve access and incentivize international visitors. One of the most effective tools in China’s strategy has been the introduction of visa-free policies and exemptions for a wide range of countries. By 2025, China’s open-door policies are set to make an indelible impact on inbound tourism.

The key to this tourism boom lies in China’s expansive visa exemptions. Countries such as France, Germany, and South Korea are now able to send travelers to China with minimal hassle, thanks to mutual and unilateral agreements that have broadened the scope of visa-free entry. This development has spurred significant interest among tourists who previously faced long visa processes. More than 38 million visa-free entries have already been recorded in the first half of 2025 alone, with foreign arrivals climbing by 30% compared to the previous year.

France and Germany’s Role in the Tourism Surge

Both France and Germany’s inclusion in the visa exemption programs highlights their growing importance as major source markets for Chinese tourism. French and German travelers, accustomed to the convenience of visa-free access, are now taking full advantage of the opportunity to explore China’s rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring landscapes, and modern metropolises. From the cultural wonders of Beijing and Xi’an to the vibrant cities of Shanghai and Shenzhen, French and German tourists are flocking to China in record numbers.

Germany, a global leader in tourism and trade, has long had strong economic and cultural ties with China. The new visa-free policy is expected to further deepen these connections and open new avenues for cultural exchange and tourism collaboration. Similarly, France, with its deep historical and cultural links to China, is experiencing a tourism resurgence to the Middle Kingdom. Travelers are attracted by China’s iconic landmarks, such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, as well as the growing array of luxury hotels, exquisite dining experiences, and high-end shopping.

The collaboration between China and these European countries is indicative of the broader international interest in the country. By removing bureaucratic barriers, China is creating a welcoming environment for tourists, which is contributing significantly to the influx of foreign visitors. This development has proven to be a win-win for both China and its European partners, fueling not just tourism, but also fostering mutual understanding and stronger diplomatic ties.

UAE, Sweden, and Other Key Contributors

The UAE, Sweden, Netherlands, Russia, and South Korea are also key contributors to China’s tourism success story in 2025. For the UAE, the long-standing connections with China are bearing fruit as more Emirati nationals and residents are traveling to the country for leisure, business, and cultural exchanges. Meanwhile, Sweden’s robust relationship with China, particularly in the fields of innovation, technology, and design, is attracting Swedish tourists interested in China’s advancements in technology and infrastructure.

South Korea, a neighboring powerhouse, has seen an increase in its tourism to China due to the close cultural and economic ties between the two nations. South Korean tourists are often drawn to China’s historical sites, vibrant street food culture, and the opportunity to experience China’s modern cities, which are making significant strides in global tourism.

Russia, a long-time ally and trade partner of China, is also witnessing a sharp increase in the number of its citizens visiting the country. With the easing of visa requirements, Russian tourists are flocking to China to explore everything from the ancient wonders of the Silk Road to the dynamic urban landscapes of Beijing and Shanghai.

The introduction of outdoor heaters and dazzling light installations in cities like Harbin, part of China’s Winter Wonderland spectacles, further demonstrates the attraction of these unique seasonal experiences, and has become a significant draw for tourists from the UAE, Russia, and South Korea. The Winter Festivals in cities like Harbin, which feature massive ice sculptures and glimmering light displays, have been instrumental in attracting visitors during the colder months.

Beijing, Xiamen, and Harbin Lead the Charge

The latest tourism data showcases that Beijing, Xiamen, and Harbin are the biggest beneficiaries of this tourism boom. By late November 2025, Beijing alone recorded an astounding 5.78 million foreign arrivals, with 60% of these visitors coming via the newly introduced exemptions. European countries, especially from France, Germany, and the Netherlands, have been key contributors to this surge.

Harbin, located in northeast China, is capitalizing on its world-renowned ice festivals, which have drawn international visitors who are captivated by the city’s sub-zero temperatures and stunning frozen landscapes. The city’s Central Street, a century-old landmark, is now adorned with mesmerizing light displays and attracts tourists eager to experience winter magic.

Xiamen, known for its picturesque coastal views and historical significance, has also experienced a significant uptick in tourism, thanks to the relaxed visa policies that allow more visitors from overseas to explore its cultural gems. This city’s blend of modern architecture and traditional Chinese heritage offers a balanced experience that appeals to both international tourists and local Chinese residents.

Airlines Respond to the Tourism Surge

As the demand for travel to China increases, airlines have stepped up to meet the surge by adding more routes from countries benefiting from the visa-free policies. Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and other major carriers have bolstered their networks to accommodate the growing number of visitors arriving from France, Germany, South Korea, and other key markets.

These expanded flight routes are expected to create more convenience for travelers, further boosting China’s tourism industry. The easing of travel restrictions and the increase in available flights have positioned China as a destination of choice for international travelers in 2025.

The Future of China Tourism in 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, China’s tourism industry is set to continue thriving in 2025 and beyond, thanks to its aggressive policy reforms and global partnerships. The country’s ongoing focus on tourism infrastructure, including high-speed rail networks, luxury accommodations, and cultural tourism experiences, is helping to solidify its position as a premier global tourism hub.

As international relations between China and key countries like France, Germany, the UAE, and South Korea continue to strengthen, the influx of global travelers is expected to grow exponentially. By leveraging visa exemptions and improving travel accessibility, China is paving the way for a new era in international tourism that will not only benefit its economy but also foster greater cultural exchange and international collaboration.

France and Germany join UAE, Sweden, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, and over sixty-seven countries in accelerating China tourism in 2025 with unprecedented new visa-free access, driving a surge in international arrivals. This strategic move is set to boost China’s global appeal by removing visa barriers and attracting travelers from key source markets.

The efforts of France, Germany, UAE, Sweden, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, and over sixty-seven countries are reshaping the future of Chinese tourism. With improved visa policies, expanded airline routes, and vibrant seasonal attractions, 2025 is poised to be a record-breaking year for tourism in China, marking a major milestone in the country’s ongoing tourism revolution.