- Download a visa application from the Chinese embassy. The easiest way to access the form is to find it online, but you can also get it from any Chinese ...
- Choose a visa category to apply for. The visa category indicates your reason for visiting China. ...
- Fill out the visa form with a photo and personal information. At the top of the form, you will see a space to glue on a passport-style photo.
- Speak with a travel agency to get special permits for restricted areas. Look for a travel agency near you that offers tours to China.
- Take the visa and permit application to embassy or consulate. To submit the visa application, you have to deliver it in person.
- Pay the fee and wait for your visa to be approved. As of 2018, the application fee is around $140 USD.
How much does a visa to China cost?
How much does a China tourist visa cost? The fee is $140 for U.S. citizens regardless of the number of entries. Applicants can pay the fee with Visa, MasterCard, money order, cashier's check or company check. The visa office does not accept personal checks or cash.
How do I get a tourist visa in China?
What Are the Requirements for China Tourist Visa?
- Your passport, which should be valid for at least six months
- A complete Chinese Tourist Visa Application Form attached with your passport style photo
- Round-trip tickets and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from from a travel agency in China
What are the requirements for China visa?
- Be completed online
- Include answers for all required fields (NA where not applicable)
- List the name of the traveler exactly as it is written in the passport
- Be printed single-sided
- Be dated and signed in blue or black ink
- Be enclosed with all other documents in your visa application kit
Is China issuing visas?
You can enter China if you belong to one the three situations: hold diplomatic, Service and Courtesy, C Visa; granted China Visa for scientific/technological matters, urgent humanitarian needs and new Chinese Visa issued after March 28, 2020. China Discovery will still focus on and update the visa and entry policy of China for you!
How do I get a tourist visa for China?
The tourism visa requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months and it must have at least two blank pages. You must also have an invitation letter from a china travel agency or an individual or round-trip tickets and a hotel booking. The China Embassy has suspended visa services for Tourist visas.
How long does it take to get a Chinese visa?
What is the duration to get a visa to go to China? On a general note, a Chinese visa will take 6-8 business days if you choose the standard processing time. The duration to get your Chinese visa can be as fast as 3 days if you choose a rush service, or with express service it could take between 4 to 5 business days.
Is it hard to get a visa for China?
1: China. Chinese Embassies are getting increasingly strict when it comes to visa applications. The Embassy will require a long list of documents including flights in and out of China and a hotel booking confirmation for every night of your stay.
How much does a Chinese tourist visa cost?
China visa fees vary enormously according to your nationality, the number of entries required, the country you are applying in, and whether you want an express service. Generally the cost is $140 for an American citizen, and for citizens of other countries, the fee ranges from $30 to $90.
How long can I stay in China on a tourist visa?
30 daysNormally the duration of stay of a "L" visa is 30 days, which means the holder of the visa may stay in China for up to 30 days from the date of entry.
How far in advance should I apply for a Chinese visa?
It is advisable that you apply for a visa one month before your intended date of entry into China but not earlier than three months. The Chinese visa is typically valid for three months. If you apply for a visa too early, the visa may expire before your departure.
Do U.S. citizens need Chinese visa?
Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit China? Yes. U.S. citizens planning to visit China's mainland must apply for an entry visa through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General.
Can you enter China right now?
Yes. China currently allows foreign nationals with valid residence permits and visas to enter the country under certain very limited conditions.
How long can you stay in China without a visa?
The government of the People's Republic of China allows holders of ordinary passports issued by some countries to travel to Mainland China for tourism or business purposes for up to 15, 30, 60 or 90 days without having to obtain a visa.
Which is the most difficult visa to get?
Hardest countries to get a visaNorth Korea.China.Russia.Saudi Arabia.Bhutan.Pakistan.Nigeria.Turkmenistan.More items...
How much is a 10-year Chinese visa?
Save your money. The cost of a 10-year visa is the same as other short-term visas for US citizens. The $140+ fee will only have to be paid once and then you're covered for 10 years.
Is 10 years Chinese visa still valid?
The "10-year Chinese Visa" is multi-year and multi-entry business, tourism, and family-visit visa issued for Canadians who meet the requirements in terms of the agreement on facilitation of people-to-people exchanges between China and Canada on March 9, 2015. The visa is valid for up to 10 years.
How much is a Chinese visa for US citizens?
$140Number of EntryU.S. CitizensCitizens of Third CountriesSingle Entry$140$30Double Entries$140$45Multiple Entries for 6 Months$140$60Multiple Entries for 12 Months or more$140$90
How much is a visa to China from NZ?
Nationality / Number of Entries / Visa CategoryVisa feeNew ZealandSingle entry$140Double entry$2106 Month Multiple Entry$28012 month and above, multiple entry$42017 more rows
Which country is most difficult to get visa?
What are the Hardest Countries to Get a Visa To?Russia.Cuba.Iran.Turkmenistan.Chad.Bhutan.Saudi Arabia.Afghanistan.More items...
Do you need to make an appointment to get a Chinese visa?
Appointment is compulsory to submit your application-News. Please be kindly reminded that an on-line appointment must be booked before you come to the Chinese Visa Application Centre to submit your application. The Centre can't accept any application without an appointemnt. Express service is available from 9:00- 12:00 ...
How to apply for a Chinese visa?
To apply for a China visa, you need to complete an application form attached with your recently-taken color photo, prepare a valid passport, and submit them along with other supporting documents to the Chinese embassy or consulate which is in charge of your residence area . Check the step-by-step guide on how to apply for a China visa below for details.
How to get a passport back from China?
Go to the place where you apply for China visa on the date appointed at the pick-up slip. Pay the fee and you will get your passport back with visa. See China Visa Fees.
What documents are needed for a visa?
Documents required for all types of visa include passport and visa application form attached with a recently-taken photo. Besides, other supporting documents are required, but they vary according to the visa type you are applying for. For instance, if you apply for a tourist L visa, the supporting documents will refer to round-trip tickets, ...
How long before a visa expires can you renew it?
The best way is to renew the current visa to a temporary visa at least 5 days before it expires. At the same time, try to find a new job, and then change the temporary visa to a work visa.
How to get a visa for China?
Step 1. Find out if you need a visa. The first thing is to check whether you need a visa or not. You usually need to apply for a Chinese visa unless you meet one of China's visa-free policies. 72- and 144-hour visa-free transit offer great convenience if you have a layover in China. Step 2.
How to apply for a Chinese visa?
The following list of documents are required for any China visa application: 1 A valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you enter China. 2 A complete visa application form (The visa application form can be downloaded from the Chinese embassy website or from our website. You complete it by computer, print and sign it. In some countries such as UK you should complete an online form. See details on https://www.visafo rchina.org. On the form, you might find an item “Serial number of invitation letter of the authorized organization”, you may skip this item if you don’t have an invitation letter, or the invitation letter is not of this type.) 3 A recent passport-type photograph (head and shoulders only, front view, with a white background, approximately 48mmx33mm)
How long does a passport need to be valid in China?
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you enter China. A complete visa application form (The visa application form can be downloaded from the Chinese embassy website or from our website. You complete it by computer, print and sign it. In some countries such as UK you should complete an online form.
How long is a visa valid for?
It is important to get your visa early, but not too early because it is only valid for 90/180 days for single/double-entry visas from the issue date.
What is China Highlights?
China Highlights is your China tour tailor-making expert. See the recommended tours below for inspiration.
Where to apply for a visa in China?
You may submit the application to the Visa Office at Chinese embassies or consulates, or China Visa Application Service Centers (also called CVASC) if they are operating in your country.
Can you use an invitation letter to travel to China?
An invitation letter can replace the air ticket and hotel booking if you are planning to stay with friends or family who live in China and can' t provide the hotel confirmation, or if your travel is being organized by a travel agency (or other duly authorized organization) in China.
How to get a visa for China?
You can find your nearest Chinese consulate, embassy, or visit a China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC).
What is a business visa type in China?
Are you visiting China for your current job? Business visa type F is for those visiting for non-commercial reasons on behalf of their employer, like conferences, scientific research, or cultural exchange, while business visa type M is available for those involved in trade or commercial purposes while in the country.
How long does it take to get a visa?
Usually it takes 4-5 business days to process, although times vary, so prepare accordingly. Keep in mind you won’t want to apply too early, as the visa is only valid for 90/180 days depending on whether it’s for single or double entry. If you apply 1-2 months in advance you should be golden!
How long does a work visa last in China?
Valid for 3 months, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit within 30 days, and this residency permit will actually determine how long you are able to stay.
How long does it take to get a temporary residence permit in China?
Student visas have similar fees as other types of visas, and X1 visa holders should apply for a temporary residence permit within 30 days of arrival. It’s important to note that you cannot work while on a China student visa.
How long can a US citizen stay in China?
So, what types of visas exist and how do you apply for a China visa as a US citizen? Most likely, you’ll want an L-Visa, or tourist visa that allows a single entry with a stay for up to 30 days. However, as a US citizen, you could also apply for a multiple-entry 10-year visa, which may be worth it if you plan on bouncing around Asia or spending more time in the country (understandable, there’s a lot to explore!).
Is China a country?
China is a vast, ethnically diverse country of many languages, peoples, and cultures making it an extraordinary place to travel, work, and explore. If you’re planning on visiting this remarkable country, you’ll want to do your research and prepare for your trip. The most important piece of prep is undoubtedly the Chinese visa, and how you go about securing one. Luckily, there are many resources to guide you in how to get a visa for China.
How Long Does It Take To Receive A China Visa In The US?
But it is recommended that the best time to apply for a China visa is between 2 months and 15 days before you plan your China trip .
What is a business visa in China?
China business visas (F and M) - The F visa is for individuals invited to China for investigations, science-related ventures, non-commercial exchanges, education, and health reasons. Reminder, you will need an invitation from a business entity to obtain this Chinese visa.
What to bring to the airport for a passport?
Bring your original, signed passport plus one photocopy of the information page.
How much does a visa cost?
The price varies from USD 30 to 140 depending on the type of visa you apply for, nationality, the country where you apply and the number of entries. Usually, it’s less expensive for European citizens, whereas Americans typically are required to pay the full fee of USD 140.
How to hand over an application to the consular office?
You need to handover your application directly by presenting yourself to the consular office. And if you can not be able to give personally for some reason, then it will be essential to send anyone personally for delivering the application on your behalf.
What is an M visa?
This M visa is for that businessperson who wants to do business in China. This M visa is required to submit the invitation letter delivered by your Chinese trade partner or legal organizer on the Chinese side.
What is proof of travel arrangements?
Proof of Travel Arrangements: Computer generated flight or travel itinerary or a copy of airline tickets showing round trip travel to China or onward flight.
How to apply for a Chinese visa?
To apply, you must visit a Chinese embassy, consulate, or Chinese Visa Application Center in person. If you cannot get there yourself, you can have a travel agent or a visa agency apply for you. You cannot send your documents through the mail.
What is a tourist visa in China?
The tourist visa, or L Visa , is for anyone who wants to visit China for touring and sightseeing. If you’re considering moving to China, taking a trip there as a tourist is a great way to help you decide if you want to live there for an extended period of time.
What is the most important factor in figuring out which type of visa you need?
The reason for your trip and how long you intend to stay will be the most important determining factor in figuring out which type of visa you need. Make sure you apply for the right one – especially if you intend to study, work, or conduct business while you’re there.
How long is a Z visa valid in China?
The Z Visa is only valid for 30 days, so when you arrive in China you’ll also need to apply for a temporary residence permit.
How long does it take to get a visa for China?
While it usually only takes several days for Chines visa applications to be processed, it’s best to apply 1 – 2 months before you plan to depart on your trip.
How to decide which travel document to apply for?
When deciding which one to apply for, think about the main reason for your trip and decide how long you plan to stay there. Different types of travel documents are valid for different lengths of time.
What is a Z visa?
The Chinese work visa is also known as the Z Visa, and it’s for people who intend to work and get paid in China. It is not for people conducting business and getting paid by their own employers in their homeland.
How long does it take to get a visa for China?
It normally takes 4 working days for processing a China travel visa. For express service, an additional fee of USD 20 will be charged for two or three working day service. For rush service, an additional fee of USD30 will be charged for same-day service.
Is an appointment required for Chinese consulate?
An appointment is not mandatory. Applications by mails are not accepted and will be refused at most Chinese embassies or consulates. In countries with CVASCs, applicants may be able to apply by post, or submit applications based on an online appointment via the website of CVASC.
Do you need a visa for a group tour?
If travelling with an organized tour group, you might not have an individual visa in your passport. Instead, the tour group will be issued a group tour visa bearing all the members' names. In such situations supply your details to the travel agency beforehand and you will have no further concerns.
Who Needs a Chinese Tourist Visa?
The majority of foreign nationals require a tourist visa (also known as an "L visa") to enter and visit mainland China, though a few nationalities are granted visa-free entry. L visas are easy to obtain from Chinese embassies and consulates around the world, though the visa application process in some countries has been outsourced to a local branch of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center – their website has a handy list of locations and other useful country-specific information. To avoid the tedious bureaucracy when applying in person, many people obtain a visa via a tour operator or visa agent.
How much does a China tourist visa cost?
Most tourists pay around US$35 for a single entry visa valid for 30 days from the day you enter China. Reflecting frosty relations between China and some foreign governments, UK citizens pay £151, US citizens pay US$140, Canadian citizens pay C$142, Australian citizens pay A$109 and French, German, Italian, Dutch and Spanish citizens pay €126.
How long is a Chinese visa valid for?
Regular China tourist visas are valid for 30 days and must be used within three (or six, if double-entry) months of their date of issue. Never overstay your visa: the fine is ¥500 a day, with the possibility of being deported and banned from re-entering China for the next five years. If you think you'll need to stay longer, start the process of applying for a visa extension well before your visa expires.
How long does it take to get a Chinese visa extension?
The process takes between 2 and 7 working days, the fee is ¥160 (or ¥760/500 for US/UK citizens). You can only extend your stay for as long as the duration of your original visa. You’ll need to provide your original passport, two photos and a receipt from your accommodation in the town where you are applying for your extension.
Can I extend my visa to Tibet?
Because of the complicated permit system, extending your stay in Tibet is impossible, and Xinjiang, Beijing and Shanghai can also be tricky places to extend a standard tourist visa. The Caravanistan website has some useful visa extension reports from travelers. A second extension is harder to get, and a third extension is extremely unlikely.
Can I travel to China with a passport?
Holders of passports from a handful of countries can travel visa-free to mainland China for tourism or business purposes. Citizens of Brunei, Japan and Singapore get 15 days, citizens of the Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Ecuador, Fiji, Grenada, Qatar, Serbia, Seychelles, Tonga, and the United Arab Emirates get 30 days, citizens of Mauritius get 60 days, and citizens of Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and San Marino get 90 days.
Can I extend my Chinese visa?
Chinese visas can be extended once without too much difficulty at the Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices found in larger Chinese towns and cities, though an extension is not guaranteed. The process takes between 2 and 7 working days, the fee is ¥160 (or ¥760/500 for US/UK citizens). You can only extend your stay for as long as the duration of your original visa. You’ll need to provide your original passport, two photos and a receipt from your accommodation in the town where you are applying for your extension.
How Do You Get a Visa for China?
The visa a traveler needs depends on their citizenship, purpose of trip and the length of their stay. Currently, there are only 17 countries that are exempt from applying for a China visa to travel to Mainland China. However, the country does waive visas if the traveler meets specific requirements and is traveling to certain regions.
How long does it take to get a Chinese visa?
Generally speaking, if the applicant meets all the requirements, has all the necessary documents and holds a passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages it should take about four working days to get a Chinese visa.
What is a L visa?
Tourist that are from non-visa exempt countries should apply for the Tourist (L) visa, issued to aliens who are traveling to Mainland China for tourism purposes only. Those who wish to carry out business in China will need to obtain the Business (M) China visa.
Does China have rush visas?
Some People’s Republic of China Diplomatic Missions offer rush service, which speed up the processing time of a visa for China. Nonetheless, it is only available for cases of extreme urgency and depend on the approval of the Chinese Consular Office.
What provinces are in the consular district of China?
This consular district includes: the provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning.
How to get a visa extension?
Apply for a visa extension from your local Entry/Exit Bureau before attempting to leave the country. Do not expect your request to be expedited, so apply ahead of time.
What are the criminal laws of China?
Certain provisions of the Criminal Law of the People’s Republic of China – such as “social order” crimes (Article 293) and crimes involving “endangering state security” and “state secrets” (Article 102 to 113) – are ill-defined and can be interpreted by the authorities arbitrarily and situationally.
How long is a multiple entry visa?
Apply for a ten-year multiple entry visa, useful for repeated travel, or trips to Hong Kong or Macau with returns to China.
Is China safe to visit?
For most visitors, China remains a very safe country. Petty street crime is the most common safety concern for U.S. citizens. Training, capability, and responsiveness of Chinese authorities varies by region and even city. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General have no law enforcement authority and may not represent U.S. citizens in either criminal or civil legal matters. To ensure your safety and security in China, you should:
Who is the only authorized visitor during initial detention?
A consular officer may be the only authorized visitor during your initial detention period.
Can you travel to China with prescriptions?
Medication: If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to ensure the medication is legal in China. Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with the prescription. Many commonly-used U.S. drugs and medications are not available in China, and counterfeit, low-quality knockoffs are prevalent. If you try to have medications sent to you from outside China, you may have problems getting them released by Chinese Customs and/or you may have to pay high customs duties.
