Unexpectedly Difficult Countries to Visit in 2025

4. China: The Complex Biometric and In-Person Visa Process

While China has rolled out visa-free entry for citizens of some European countries, the process for many nationalities remains a significant bureaucratic hurdle. As of 2025, securing a standard visa often requires a mandatory in-person embassy appointment and the collection of biometric data (fingerprints). This can involve long wait times for appointments and meticulous documentation. The challenge is in the sheer effort and time required, making last-minute trips difficult and forcing travelers to endure a strict, multi-step vetting process.