Travelling to China generally requires a visa, with some exceptions for short-term stays and transit. People most commonly visit for tourism, business, work, study, or to reunite with family. Each purpose calls for a separate visa, which comes with its own eligibility criteria and application requirements. The process is simple if applicants know what to do.
First, they have to complete an online application process through the China Online Visa Application (COVA) platform. After submitting the completed form, they will need to arrange an appointment at their local Chinese embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). Processing time may vary, usually ranging from four to seven business days. National holidays and weekends may affect the collection date. The amount you need to pay for a standard visa varies between countries, so it is advisable to check with local embassies or consulates before applying. Additionally, expedited services are available for an extra fee.
It is essential to be aware of all the guidelines and to gather the complete list of documents relevant to your specific situation. These can be categorised into two groups: core documents that all applicants must submit and supporting paperwork that you may be required to provide for specific cases.
For more detailed information, please consult our China visa application process guide. However, before you do that, continue reading to learn more about general application requirements.
General Requirements for a China Visa: Passport, Application Form and Photos
Regardless of your nationality or where you are applying from, if you require a China visa, there is a set of standard documents you will have to present at your designated embassy, consulate, or Visa Application Service Centre.
Passport – This is arguably the most crucial element of international travel. It must have at least six months’ validity beyond your intended departure date from China, as well as blank pages to receive the entry and exit stamps. You will also need to provide photocopies of the passport’s data page, as well as the photo page if it is separate.
Recent Photograph – It is important to submit a recently taken photograph in colour, with a white background and a neutral facial expression (bare head, full face). The dimensions must conform to the standard size for a passport photograph, which is 33 mm width x 44 mm height. Every diplomatic representative may have different China visa application photo requirements, so it is best to consult your local representative, embassy or consulate website for more details.
Visa Application Form – Form V.2013 is typically available on the official website of your local Chinese embassy, consulate, or Chinese Visa Application Service Centre. It is crucial to complete the visa application form thoroughly to avoid delays or potential rejection. You will need to print it out and sign it before submission.
Proof of Legal Stay or Residence Status – Individuals applying from their country of residence rather than their country of origin must present valid documentation confirming their legal stay or residence status in that country. That may include a visa, a residence permit, a work visa, or an equivalent document.
Photocopy of Previous Chinese Passports or Visas – Applicants who have previously held a Chinese nationality must provide a copy of their former Chinese passport or any Chinese visas they possessed.
What Supporting Documents Do You Need for Tourist and Business Visas?
If you are applying for a tourist visa (L)
If you are travelling to China as a tourist or visiting family or friends, you must demonstrate that you intend to leave the country. For that reason, you may be required to provide:
Flight Tickets – Applicants are often required to submit proof of round-trip airline tickets and, sometimes, a complete itinerary that outlines their entry and exit dates from China.
Proof of Accommodation – Hotel reservations or an invitation letter may also be necessary for a tourist.
Invitation Letter – An invitation letter from an individual or relevant Chinese entity should include basic information about the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport details) as well as details about the inviting person or entity (name, contact number, address, official stamp, signature). It should also specify the arrival and departure dates, place of stay in China, purpose of travel, the travel itinerary, and the date of signature.
Proof of Financial Means – You may be asked to provide evidence demonstrating your financial capability to travel to China and cover all expenses. Have a bank statement or an employment letter proving your income ready!
If you are applying for a business visa (M)
Those who are applying for a China business visa will need to present additional documentation. Whether you are visiting for a short-term business meeting, trade fair, or commercial negotiations, you must provide an official invitation letter from a registered Chinese business entity or a trade partner. This letter should include the applicant’s full name, gender, date of birth, details of the trip, and information about the hosting party.
Chinese officials may also request proof of the company’s commercial activity, a trade fair invitation, or other invitation letters issued by relevant parties.
If you are applying for a non-commercial Visit Visa (F)
When applying for a non-commercial visit visa type, usually issued for academic visits, exhibitions, cultural exchanges, workshops, or internships, applicants may need to provide an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. The applicant’s personal information (full name, gender, date of birth, and passport details), details of the trip, arrival and departure dates, and information about the hosting party should be provided.
If you are applying for a transit visa (G)
Applicants applying for the China transit visa must provide onward travel tickets to the third country, a valid visa (if required), and, sometimes, a detailed transit itinerary. The latter is required if you are travelling through multiple Chinese cities.
Useful Tips
- Start preparing early: Begin your China visa application at least one month before your planned trip to allow for unexpected delays or additional document requests.
- Use original documents: Always bring original documents and clear photocopies to your visa appointments.
- Adhere to the photograph guidelines: Follow official China visa photo requirements, including background colour, facial expression, and size.
- Ensure your personal information is accurate: Details on the application form must match your passport and other documentation.
- Print supporting documents in advance: Bring physical copies of flight tickets, hotel bookings, and invitation letters to your visa appointment.
- Plan for visa collection: Be aware of your visa collection date, and remember to bring the receipt with you. Some visa centres offer delivery services, while others allow third parties to collect on your behalf, provided an authorisation is presented.
- Stay Informed: Visa requirements are subject to change. Before applying, check the latest updates on the website of your local embassy or consulate, or visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre website.
- Apply on the China Online Visa Application (COVA) website.
When Applying for a Chinese Visa, Remember...
Each case is assessed individually by the Chinese consulate or embassy. For instance, individuals with previous criminal records or visa denials will not be automatically rejected; however, the local visa office may request additional documentation.
Additionally, applicants with previous Chinese visas may be asked to submit copies of those visas. Travellers who have visited restricted regions may also be required to provide further information or clarification.