Summary: China extends visa-free entry for 48 countries until 2026. Japan updates tax-free shopping and train seat policies. South Korea extends K‑ETA exemption. Vietnam expands visa waivers for Europeans. Plan ahead for a smooth trip.
Planning a trip to China or neighboring countries in 2026? Don't worry, we're here to help! Our guide covers the latest travel rules and updates, so you can travel with confidence and enjoy a stress-free journey. Keep scrolling and let's make your adventure safe and memorable!
China
1. Visa-free policy
48 citizens holding ordinary passports do not need a visa to enter China for short-term stays. The visa-free policy has been extended to December 31, 2026. Eligible travelers can stay up to 30 days.
Europe (34 countries): France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovenia, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Russia, Sweden
Oceania (2 countries): Australia, New Zealand
Asia (7 countries): Brunei, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain
South America (5 countries): Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay
Resource: National Immigration Administration
Japan
1. Revamped Tax-Free Shopping
The Tax-Free Shopping System will transition to a Refund Method (new tax-free shopping system) starting November 1, 2026. The following website contains the details for your reference.
Overview of the Refund Method: click here.
Tax-free purchases can be made quickly by registering with VJW: click here.
2. New rules for bullet train travel
Starting March 15, 2025, a change will take effect on the popular Nozomi bullet train.
Fewer non-reserved seats: To enhance passenger comfort, additional cars will be converted to reserved seating, particularly on lines such as the Tokaido and Sanyo bullet trains.
Advance booking recommended: Travelers especially those using the Japan Rail Pass, are encouraged to reserve seats in advance. Options for non-reserved seating will be limited.
Resource: JRP
3. Dual pricing for attractions and new fees
Dual pricing for attractions: Starting in 2025 and accelerating into 2026, Japan is introducing a 'dual pricing' system. It means international tourists may pay higher fees than local residents at selected popular landmarks. This is not a uniform nationwide mandate, but rather a localized strategy adopted by individual sites.
New fees: The mandatory hiking fee has been raised from ¥3,000 to ¥4,000. Click here for more details.
South Korea
1. K‑ETA Temporary Exemption Extended
The Ministry of Justice has extended the K‑ETA temporary exemption to December 31, 2026 (KST) to support tourism. Exemption starts from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (KST). Start a K‑ETA application (Click Here) to check if your nationality is exempt; a pop-up will confirm.
Resource: Korea Electronic Travel Authorization
Vietnam
1. Expanded Visa Exemptions for European Countries
Vietnam has introduced a new visa‑free entryfor several European countries as part of its tourism stimulus plan. From 15 August 2025 to 14 August 2028, citizens of 12 European countries (Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland) can enter Vietnam visa‑free for up to 45 days for tourism.
According to the related policy (Resolution No. 44/NQ‑CP), Vietnam also extends visa exemptions until March 2028 for citizens of 15 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Allow to stay up to 45 days regardless of travel purpose.
Resource: Immigration Department - Ministry of Public Security
We will continue to keep you updated. If you have any questions about traveling in China or across Asia, please feel free to reach out via WeChat at Expatsholiday or email us at [email protected].
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