Visa Application Process
Q: Do I need to apply for a Chinese visa?
- If you do not meet China’s visa exemption policies (e.g., the 240-hour visa-free transit policy), you will need to apply for a visa.
Q: What passport requirements must I meet to apply for a Chinese visa?
- You must hold an original passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Your passport must have at least two blank pages for the visa.
Q: How do I choose the appropriate visa type?
- Choose the visa type based on the purpose of your visit. For example, if traveling for tourism, apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa).
Q: What documents are required to apply for a Chinese visa?
Basic documents include:
- A valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining).
- A completed visa application form and a recent passport-sized photo.
- Proof of legal residence (if applying outside your home country).
Additional documents (depending on visa type):
- Details of your travel plan (e.g., itinerary, proof of accommodation).
- Round-trip flight reservations and hotel bookings.
- An invitation letter (issued by a Chinese travel agency or other authorized entity).
Q: What information should the invitation letter contain?
- Applicant’s information: name, passport number, purpose of visit, etc.
- Inviting party’s information: name, contact details, address.
- Visit details: travel plans and itinerary.
Q: How do I submit a visa application?
- Through a visa center: Visit the official visa service center website, complete the application form online, and schedule an appointment to submit your application.
- Direct submission to an embassy or consulate: For areas without visa centers, applications can be submitted in person or via an authorized representative.
Q: Is fingerprint collection required?
- Since 2018, most applicants from various countries are required to submit their applications in person and provide fingerprints.
Q: How do I collect my approved visa?
- Visit the visa center, pay the applicable fees, and collect your passport with the visa.
For details, see the National Immigration Administration: https://en.nia.gov.cn/n182/n285/n20208/n26006/c38080/content.html
For more information about guide to working and living in China as Business Expatriates, please refer to the following QR Code:
