chinese tourist visa price uk

• 86-19138970032 (GMT+8 18:00~09:00)

• Beijing Xian Tours
• Shanghai Beijing Tours
• Hong Kong Guilin Tours
• Hangzhou Suzhou Tours
• Kunming Lijiang Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Cruise Tours
• Chengdu Tibet Tours
• More Short Stay Tours
• China Tours in January
• China Tours in February
• China Tours in March
• China Tours in April
• China Tours in May
• China Tours in June
• China Tours in July
• China Tours in August
• China Tours in September
• China Tours in October
• China Tours in November
• China Tours in December

• High Speed Trains
• China Yangtze Cruise Tour
• Photography
• Desert Adventure
• Ethnic Villages
• Biking Tours
• Kung Fu Tours
• Heritage Sites Exploration
• China Spring Tours
• China Summer Tours
• China Autumn Tours
• China Winter Tours

• Best-value Yangtze Cruises
• Top Family-friendly Cruise Ships
• Top 3 Luxury Yangtze River Cruises
• Yangtze River Highlights
• Yangtze River Cruise Routes
• Upstream or Downstream?
• Dining & Drinking
• Accommodations
• On-board Activities
• Yangtze Cruise Booking Steps

• Inner Mongolia

• Fanjingshan
• How to Plan Your First China Tour
• How to Plan Beijing Tour
• How to Plan Xian Tour
• How to Plan Shanghai Tour
• How to Plan Guilin Tour
• How to Plan Sichuan Tour
• How to Plan Family Tour
• 2024 China Travel Ideas
• Best Time to Visit China
• What to Pack for Your China Journey
• Updated China Travel News
• Ultimate Chinese Visa Guide
• Chinese Visa Types
• Chinese Visa Requirements
• Do I Need a Visa for China
• Chinese Visa Application
• Chinese Visa Exemptions
• 144-hour Visa Free
• Shenzhen Visa on Arrival
• Hainan 30-day Visa Free
• Embassies & Consulates
• Invitation Letter
• Useful Visa FAQs & Tips
• Entry Regulations
• Baggage Allowance
• Customs Declaration
• Exit Regulation
• How to Book Train Tickets
• How to Collect Train Tickets
• How to Cancel & Alter Train Tickets
• How to Read Train Tickets
• China High Speed Train Types
• Seats Class & How to Choose
• Friendly Facilities on the Train
• The Train Station Departure Process
• Available Food and Drinks on the Train
• Western Toilets on the Train
• Luggage Racks & Baggage Allowance
• Beijing Train Stations
• Shanghai Train Stations
• Guilin Train Stations
• Xian Train Stations
• Chengdu Train Stations
• Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station
• Beijing - Xian
• Beijing - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Shanghai
• Shenzhen - Shanghai
• Chengdu - Xian
• Shanghai - Hangzhou
• Shanghai - Xian
• Chengdu - Chongqing
• Kunming - Lijiang
• Beijing Capital International
• Beijing Daxing International
• Shanghai Pudong International
• Shanghai Hongqiao International
• Guangzhou Baiyun International
• Hangzhou Xiaoshan International
• Chengdu Tianfu International
• Chengdu Shuangliu International
• Xian Xianyang International
• Shanghai - Beijing
• Hong Kong - Shanghai
• Guangzhou - Beijing
• Chengdu - Lhasa
• Shanghai - Guilin
• Shanghai - Sanya
• Travel in Spring Season
• Travel in Summer Season
• Travel in Autumn Season
• Travel in Winter Season
• Weather in January
• Weather in February
• Weather in March
• Weather in April
• Weather in May
• Weather in June
• Weather in July
• Weather in August
• Weather in September
• Weather in October
• Weather in November
• Weather in December
• Top 10 China Destinations
• Top 15 Things to Do
• China World Heritage Sites
• Top 10 Best Natural Beauties
• Top 10 Museums in China
• Top 10 Old Towns & Villages
• Five Great Mountains in China
• Top 10 Monasteries & Temples
• Top 10 Ski Resorts
• Top 10 Beautiful Lakes in China
• 7 Best Beaches in Sanya
• Top 6 Beautiful Waterfalls
• Panda Volunteering
• Having fun on Ice and Snow Festival
• About Us Who We Are Our Team Why Travel with Us Feedback & Reviews Travel Stories Travelers' Gallery Payment Guide Customer Support Contact Us
• Tour Experiences

Destinations

• Travel Guide

How Much is a Chinese Visa - China Visa Fees 2024/2025

Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China - Updated on March 7, 2024 :

1. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is newly available for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Read more »

2. Booking of flights and hotels, China itineraries and invitation letters are not required for application of Chinese Tourist Visa for U.S.nationals.

3. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is now available for other 6 countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. Read more »

4. Appointment is not required for visa application in many embassies and consulates.

5. Starting from 00:00 on November 1, 2023, individuals entering or exiting the country are exempt from filling out the "People's Republic of China Health Declaration Card for Entry/Exit."

6. Norway has become the 54th country whose passport holders can transit without visa up to 72/144 hours in China.

7. Starting from August 30, 2023, individuals traveling to China will no longer be required to undergo pre-entry COVID-19 nucleic acid or antigen testing.

8. U.S. citizens holding multi-year multiple-entry visas issued before March 28, 2020, whose visas temporarily lost entry functionality between March 28, 2020, and March 14, 2023, due to the pandemic, are eligible to apply for compensation. Those who choose to apply for compensation will receive a free 3-year multiple-entry visa. Those who choose to waive the compensation can apply for a new 10-year multiple-entry visa at the regular fee.

China Discovery will keep focusing on the updates of the latest Chinese visa and entry policy! You can also call +86 010 12367 (Official telephone number of China National Immigration Administration) to check further information. Welcome to join in our Facebook Groups to catch up with the latest news!

Invitation letter is a vital document for Chinese visa application. If you travel with us, we will not only create a valuable tour for you, but also provide you an invitation letter if you request, which will help you obtain your visa successfully. Start customizing your tour in China now!

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

In general, most visitors are required to pay for China Visa Application unless you meet requirements of China Visa Free Policy . So far, there are 4 ways to submit China Visa Application, accordingly, different kinds of fees incurred. Among all the expenses, China Visa Fee is the basic cost, additional service charge and shipping fee will be collected, if your submission made to China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) and choose postal service.

China visa fee varies from different nationalities, number of entries and duration of stay, visa types and visiting destinations in China. Check the detailed price guide below to know how much does a China Visa cost, prepare sufficient fee and make the payment correctly for your China Visa Application.

How Much A Chinese Visa Cost - China Visa Application Fee

The Chinese Visa Application Fee is charged by Chinese Embassy or Consulate General at a local currency rate, including visa processing of regular, express and rush services. Whether you apply for China Visa from visa section/office of Chinese Embassy and Consulate, at China Visa Application Center in the residing country or at port of entry upon arrival in China, each applicants have to pay certain amount of visa fees. Chinese visa fee is largely different for different nationals, application for visa types (entry visa before departure or visa on arrival), number of entries and duration of stay.

China Visa Application Fees for Different Nationalities

Attention : ①. Submission to Chinese Embassy or Consulate : visa fee only. ②. Submission to Service Center : visa fee + service fee. ③. Visa fees of China Tourist Visa (L Visa), Business Visa (M Visa) and common types costs the same. ④. Application service fee is charged by CVASC at local currency rate. ⑤ The visa fees are listed from official websites for reference only, fees for long time and the third countries may vary from the fees above, are subject to change and explain by the Chinese Embassy or the Consulate General. You should check from official authority for updated fees.

Regular China Visa Fees (for China's mainland)

● US Passport Holders: $185 (USD) for all types of visas and single/double/multiple entry visa to China;

● Canadian Passport Holders: $100 (CAD) for all types of visas and single/double/multiple entry visa to China;

● UK Passport Holders: £85 for all visa types, £170 for 5-year Multiple Entries, £255 for 10-year Multiple Entries;

● Indian Passport Holders: Single Entry: Rs3900, Double Entry: Rs5850, Multiple Entries for 6 Months: Rs7800, Multiple Entries for 1 Year and above: Rs11700, Group Visa: Rs2400 per person;

● Third Country Passport Holders: Single Entry: US$30, Double Entry: $45, Multiple Entries for 6 Months: $60, Multiple Entries for 1 Year and above: $90.

Visa Fees for Special Visa Types

● Group Visa: $40 per visa for all citizens, and about $110 for US Citizens applying as group tourists.

● 10 Year China Visa: £255 for British, $180 for American, ARS 2400 for Argentine, NIS 100 for Israel.

So far, the 10 year long-term China Visa is only apply to nationals from US, UK, Canada, Argentina and Israel.

● China Visa on Arrival (Port Visa): 168 RMB for most citizens, about 314 RMB for UK Passport Holders.

The China Landing Visa Fee differs from nationalities and is charged by the port exit & entry office in local Chinese currency, Renminbi (RMB). US and French Passport Holders are not eligible for China Port Visa, except for certain visa-free cases. Contact us to check if you can apply for China Entry Visa upon arrival.

Extra Charges for Expedited Service

Normally, it takes about 4 business days to finish processing the visa application in Regular Service Application. If you want to get a urgent Chinese visa fast and quickly, you can pay to accelerate the processing of the visa. Additional processing service fee will be taken by the Chinese Embassy and Consulate General accordingly. Express Application Service needs extra $25 and Rush Application Service costs $37 .

Processing Time & Pick-up Date

* Regular Service : 4 working days, a normal standard

* Express Service : 2~3 working days, can be collected on the 2~3rd working day

* Rush Service : 1 working day, can be collected in the same day (must submit before 12:00pm) or next day

Note: 1.) Mail Application in Australia can NOT use rush service. It usually takes about 10 working days to process the mail application. 2.) Extra processing time will be needed , if the visa officer require the applicants to submit supplementary documents, or an interview. 3.) Express or Rush Service is not valid in some countries.

Visa Fee for Hong Kong, Macau

Hong kong and macau visa fees.

An Chinese Visa is only valid for visiting China's mainland, while Hong Kong and Macau SARs own separate visa regulations. Nationals from 170 countries are exempted from visa to Hong Kong, and citizens of 79 countries can travel to Macau visa free, within certain duration of stay. Other visitors are required to apply for a entry visa/permit to travel or transit in the two regions in China. (Check Hong Kong / Macua Visa Waiver policy to find out if you need a visa or not.)

Hong Kong & Macau Visa Application Requirements for Different Nationalities

Hong Kong & Macau SAR Visa Fees : 1.) Visitors who enjoying visa-free treatment still have to apply for a Hong Kong or Macau Visa, if you plan to visit Hong Hong for other purposes, or want to stay stay longer beyond the visa-free visiting time. 2.) Hong Kong and Macau Application Fees: $30 for Regular Service, additional $20 for Express Service, additional $30 for Rush Service and additional $20 for Communication Fee to local Immigration Department.

Processing Time depends on where you submit application. Postal application to Macau Immigration Department takes at least 3 weeks, while submission to Chinese Embassy or Consulate General takes 5 working days (for regular service), 3 working days for Express Service and 1~2 working days for rush service.

Most Recommended Hong Kong Tours:

>> 1 Day Valuable Hong Kong Tour

>> 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour (HK Island+Lantau Island)

>> 2 Days Hong Kong & Macau Highlights Tour

How to Pay China Visa Fee - Acceptable Way of Payment

1. Submission to China Visa Application Service Center: cash, debit card, credit card (must be Visa or Master Card) and company check.

Those methods of payment apply to Canada, UK, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and qualified passport holders. Mail application in Australia must be paid by debit card or credit card, and a Payment Authorization Form is required to be completed and posted to the service center. Money order, or check is not accepted for a postal application.

2. Submission to (Visa Office of) Chinese Embassy or Consulate General: credit card (Visa or Mastercard only), money order, cashier's check or company check. Chinese Embassy or Consulate will not accept cash, personal check or online payment, credit card other than a Visa or Master card.

Note: Please check carefully to make sure your money/check order with the exact and right amount of fees.

Other Useful Tips about China Visa Fees

1. Extra service fee will be charged, if you submit application to China Visa Application Service Center. Applicants using Express/Rush Service and postal service also have to pay additional fees.

2. China Visa Extension costs 160 RMB for most nationals, and the extension fee is different for each nationality. The fee is collected by Foreign Affairs of the local Public Security Authority.

3. You are requested to pay before submission if you apply for a Hong Kong/Macau SAR Visa. After you submit application at the visa center, you need to pay before leave. Applicants can pay upon collection if submit application at visa office of Chinese Embassy & Consulate General, or on arrival/landing.

4. Your payment doesn’t guarantee your visa application will be approved. The Visa application fee is not refundable if denied.

How to Get a Visa for China - Chinese Visa Application Guide

❶ find out what kind of visa you need.

Read different types of Chinese Visa to figure out which kind of visa you should apply for. Determine if you are suitable applicants for each visa type, by judging your purpose of visiting is for travel, business, work, transit, family reunion and etc or not. China Tourist Visa (L Visa) is for visitor going to China for tourism, F Visa is for exchanges, study tour, Business Visa (M Visa) is for commercial and trade, Student Visa (X Visa) is for studying in China. More Chinese Visa Types >>

❷ Apply for a Chinese Visa

According to various visa policy, applicants meet relevant requirements can submit China Visa application at Chinese Embassy, Diplomatic and Consular Missions or special ports of entry. You need to prepare and submit your valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and blank pages, copy of passport’s first page, completed visa application form pasted with 2 recent photos (color photo with white background, taken within past 6 months, size: 48mmx33mm), sufficient visa fee and service charge and other supporting documents.

❸ Collect & check your China visa

The processing time differs from visa types. Normally, it takes about 4 to 5 business days for applicant to get a China Visa, and the accurate collection date will be noted on the pick-up slip. If you submit China Tourist Visa (L Visa) on Monday, you can pick up on Thursday. Check carefully the visa type, duration of stay, number of entries if they are issued correctly or not, after getting your passport back. Double check the validity when you plan to enter China, otherwise you will be denied entry.

Travel China Visa Free with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion who offers high-value and worry-free tours for you. To fulfill your dream tour to China, we not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also will provide you useful Invitation Letter to help you obtain Chinese Visa, even customize a China Visa-free Tour in Beijing , Shanghai , Xian , Chengdu , Hangzhou and more available destinations if you meet relevant visa requirements.

Popular China Visa-free Tours:

• ● 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Great Wall Hiking
• ● 5 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Real Hutong Life
• ● 3 Days Shanghai Past and Present Contrast Tour
• ● 3 Days Shanghai Highlights & Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour
• ● 2 Days Xian City Break
• ● 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
• ● 2 Days Guilin Ideal Li River Cruise with Yangshuo Essence
• ● 3 Days Classic Guilin Tour - Guilin Brief Vacation
• ● 3 Days Chengdu City Break including Panda Volunteering
• ● 3 Days Chengdu Highlights Tour
• ● 1 Day Valuable Hong Kong Tour
• ● 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour

Top China Visa-Free Cities

Introduction to China Visa

• Ultimate China Visa Guide
• Do I Neee A Visa for China
• How to Read China Visa
• Single, Double, Multiple Entry Visa
• China Tourist Visa

China Visa Application

• How to Apply for China Visa
• China Visa Requirements
• China Visa Application Form
• Visa Invitation Letter
• China Visa Application Online
• China Visa Expedited Service
• Apply China Visa in HK
• China Visa Renewal & Extension
• Lost Passport & China Visa

China Visa Exemptions

• 15 China Visa Free Policies
• 144-hour Visa Free in China
• 72-hour Visa Free in China
• 53 Visa Free Transit Countries
• Beijing 144-Hour Visa Free
• Shanghai 144-Hour Visa Free
• China Visa Free Countries
• Popualr China Visa Free Tours 2024
• Major Visa Free Cities & Regions

Recommended Tours

Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

4 Days Guilin Highlights Tour (Li River, Yangshuo & Longji Terraces)

Guilin / Yangshuo / Longsheng

3 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with Water Town

3 Days Beijing Essential Short Stay Tour (Visa Free)

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

Questions & Discussions

Following are latest questions and answers from our webusers and customers. You can learn many useful information from the discussion and cases. You can also join in the discussions or ask your own question. Our experts will help you ASAP.

Have a question? Get answers from our travel experts or guests

• Your Question:
• Your Email:
• Affordable and valuable price
• 100% tailor-made packages
• Highly rated customers reviews
• Efficient customer support

China Tours

• Top 10 China Tours
• Classic China Tours
• China Tours from Beijing
• China Tours from Shanghai
• China Tours from Hong Kong
• China Tours from Chengdu
• Short China Trips
• Customize China Tour
• China Panda Tours
• Family Tour with Kids
• High-Speed Train Tour
• Silk Road Travel
• Yangtze River Cruise
• Hiking & Trekking Tours
• Photography Tours
• China Minority Travel
• Beijing Shanghai Tours
• Shanghai Yangtze Tours
• Chengdu Jiuzhaigou Tours
• Chengdu Lhasa Tours
• Suzhou Hangzhou Tours
• Guilin & Yangshuo
• Zhangjiajie

“Very good experience”

“WONDERFUL 25 DAYS IN CHINA - PRIVATE TOUR”

“Awesome China tour from northeast to southwest”

Any questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 86-19138970032 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. GMT+8)

• Terms & Condition
• Privacy Policy
• Customer Support

Copyright © 2011-2024. All rights reserved.

Cookie policy

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue using our website means you agree with our cookie policy. For more info, please read here .

Visa application fees

1 select the country you are making your application from.

Change this answer

2 Select the visa category you would like to see fees for

Choose show all to view all visa fees for Visit or choose a particular type to find out more about its fees.

• How to Apply
• Application Requirements
• China Visa Fees
• Entries /Validity /Duration
• 10-year China Visa
• Tourist (L)
• Business (M)
• Student (X)
• Transit (G)
• Private Visit (S)
• Family Reunion (Q)
• Noncommercial Visit (F)
• Crew/ Resident/ Journalist
• 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• Hong Kong Visa Policy
• Macau Visa Policy
• Chinese Residence Permit

China Tourist Visa (L)

Most travelers to China are required to get a China tourist visa, L visa for short, which allows them to travel freely in most parts of China as tourists, assuming that they do not qualify under the  visa-free policies of China . Passports, application form, and documents showing the itinerary or an invitation letter from China are the essential application documents.  

In most cases, a tourist can get a single entry L visa with a stay duration of 30 days. UK, US, Canadian, and Argentine citizens are able to get a 10-year China tourist visa with multiple entries. 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.

If travelling independently, you need to handle visa affairs on your own. The process is not complicated if you follow the guidelines below.  

China Tourist Visa Requirements & Documents

1. passport.

- Your passport  with at least 6 months remaining validity and available blank pages, and a photocopy of passport's data page.  

2. Application Form

- One accurately completed China Visa Application Form. Please fill in every column of the application form. If the application form is not filled out truthfully, completely and legibly, there could be a delay in processing or refusal of the application.  

3. Recent Photo

- A recent passport-size color photo with white background.  

4. Round-trip Tickets Plus Hotel Bookings or Invitation Letter from China

- Documents showing the itinerary including proof of round trip tickets booking and proof of hotel reservation. - Or, if you are being invited to China, you can submit an invitation letter issued by the inviter, whether it's an entity or individual, with following information: a. Information on the applicant, including full name, gender, and date of birth. b. Information on the planned visit, including arrival and departure dates, place(s) of visit. c. Information on the inviter, including name, contact number, address, official stamp, and signature of the legal representative of the entity or the inviting individual.  

5. Other Supporting Documents

a. For those not applying in their country of citizenship, a proof of legal stay or residence status is required. b. In some cases, applicants may need to submit a certification letter from the employer of the applicant with details as follows: name and contact number of the employer, the applicant's income statement, or original copy of recent 6-month bank statement of the applicant. c. Applicants who intend to travel to Tibet must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit , which can be obtained from Tourism Bureau of Tibet Autonomous Region by travel agencies.

How to Get a Chinese Tourist Visa

After preparing all the required documents, make an appointment with Chinese embassies, consulates, or a Chinese Visa Application Center (CVASC) if there are any in your country to submit the application. Generally, applicants aged 14-70 need to go in person. If you don't need to go personally, you can entrust someone else, such as a travel agency or a visa agency to act on your behalf. Applications by mails are not accepted and will be refused at most Chinese embassies, consulates or CVASCs. But the mail-back service is available in more cases.   

Processing Time

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.  

Chinese Tourist Visa Cost

The visa costs vary depending on your nationality and number of entries. However, according to the Visa Fee Abolition Agreement, the nationals of following several countries can get a visa for free, but must pay for express service, rush service or mail service: Pakistan, Maldives, Bulgaria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Slovakia and Micronesia. For major countries, the fee is listed below.

China Tourist Visa Extension

Recommended tour packages.

Further Reading:

• General Information
• How to get a Visa
• Step By Step Guidance
• Quick Access
• Step By Step Guidance(authentication)
• Quick Access(authentication)
• About the Visa Centre
• Office Hours & Location
• Legal Information
• Help by E-MAIL
• Suggestions and Complaints

Business Hours: 9:00-15:00 Working Days

Location： 12 Old Jewry, London, EC2R 8DU Tel:+44(0)20 7776 7888   Fax:+44(0)20 7710 6001    Email： [email protected]

How to Get a China Tourist Visa in UK for British Citizens

Which country automatically comes to your mind when you talk about the East? I doubt China won’t be the first! As one of the biggest countries in Asia (and one with the richest culture and history, no doubt), China has been one of the most prominent Asian countries, especially during the past few years. Its economy, along with its tourism industry is just booming.

You’ll find that China is like a mixture of the past, present, and future all in one large mass of land. You’ll be surprised at how towns can go from being a modern metropolitan area bustling with people and cars to a historical landmark in just a blink of an eye.

• Three Days in Beijing Itinerary- The Best Things to do in Beijing, China
• 14 Best Cities to Visit in China with Tips on Places to Visit
• First Trip to China – Our Luxury Hotel Stay Experience with Sofitel Beijing Central
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in China
• 10 Traditional Chinese Medicine Activities You Can Do in Beijing, China

However, this is just a small peek of what China is. It’s not easy to encapsulate in a few words just how China should make it to your travel list with a history spanning at least 3 millennia. If you want to know what China’s all about, let me give you a few tips on how you can get to this country using your UK Passport.

Table of Contents

Quick Facts About China

Capital: Beijing

Country Code: +86

Languages Spoken: Mandarin (widely spoken among all the Chinese languages), English

Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)

Emergency Numbers: 110 for the Police, 120 for the Emergency Center, 122 for any traffic accidents, 12110 SMS alarm for the Police, 12395 for Search and Rescue Center (emergencies in water), 119 for Fire Alarm

Requirements for China Tourist Visa

• Passport with at least 6 months remaining validity as well as a photocopy of the passport’s data and photo
• Filled out a copy of the Visa Application Form
• A recently-taken color photo with a white background ( here are the requirements)
• Proof of legal stay or residence status in if you’re not applying for the visa in your country of citizenship
• If you’re not applying in your country of citizenship, you must provide the original as well as a photocopy of your valid visa or certificate of stay as well as employment or student status in the country where you’re staying (if applicable)
• A copy of previous Chinese passports or previous Chinese visas should you have any
• Documents showing your itinerary in China, hotel accommodation, round trip tickets, and if applicable, an invitation letter sent by a relevant entity or individual in China (you can also get something like this from a tour operator should you decide to book your trip with one), a cover letter may come in handy as well

Step-by-Step Procedure in Applying for China Tourist Visa

1. Gather all the necessary documents for your application

2. Create an appointment with the Chinese Visa Application Service Center to drop off your application here

3. Arrive at the Visa Center on the day of your visit with your documents

4. Have your on-site photo taken while your passport is being scanned

5. Submit your application at the counter after your number is called

6. Fill out the payment-due slip which will be given by the staff to you if your application is accepted

7. Pay the visa fee, service fee, postal service fee, etc.

8. Retain the pickup form which you’ll be showing once your China Tourist visa is ready for pick up

9. Track the status of your application here and pick it up when it’s ready

• You might be asked to attend an interview depending on the requirements of the Chinese Embassy. They will give you a time for the interview and you have to come back to the embassy on the dot.
• If you want to receive your passport through the post, please provide a prepaid, traceable envelope with the assigned receiving address when submitting. There will be an extra charge if the visa center will be the one to provide an envelope for you.
• You should also fill out the Payment Authorization Form in case you need to get a refund or you need to be charged additionally by the center through your debit card.
• You must submit your application and collect your passport by yourself. If, in any case, there’s something that’s preventing you from coming to their office personally, you may have someone apply for you. Just make sure that you have prepared all the documents and have signed all that needs to be signed.

Where You Can Apply for China Tourist Visa

LONDON 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU Telephone: +44 (0)20 7776 7888 Fax: +44 (0)20 7710 6001 Email: [email protected]

EDINBURGH 2nd Floor, Exchange Tower 19 Canning Street City of Edinburgh EH3 8EG United Kingdom Telephone: 0131 2292519 Fax: 0131 2291598 Email: [email protected]

MANCHESTER Ground Floor, 81 Mosley Street Manchester, M2 3HR Telephone: 44- 1612361070 Fax: 44-1612361070 Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions about China & China Tourist Visa

1. How long does it take to process the application for a China Tourist Visa?

You can choose to have the standard service where you can get the visa on the 4th working day, or express service where you can get the visa on the 3rd working day (still subject for approval).

2. How much does it cost to apply for a China visa?

Here are the rates for applying for a Visa (inclusive of VAT):

• Regular Service: £151
• Express Service: £182
• Postal Return: £175

3. How long is my visa’s validity?

The Chinese visa is typically valid for 3 months and allows a UK Citizen to stay in their country for a maximum of 15 days.

4. How far ahead can I apply for a Chinese visa?

You should apply at least 1 month ahead of your trip to China. Since visas are only valid for around 3 months, you wouldn’t want to risk getting it expired before your trip.

5. Can I extend my stay in China?

Yes! You can visit a local public security office before your visa expires to let them know that you’d like to get an extension for your stay.

Please note that there’s no guarantee that your request may be granted and also, do not overstay in the country as it is punishable by law.

6. Can I work using my Chinese Tourist (L) visa?

Not! We all know how strict China can be with their rules and regulations. If you’re interested in working in China, there’s an appropriate visa available in the country which you must apply for.

7. Should I get travel or medical insurance upon visiting China?

The government suggests that you do, just in case you’ll need it. One of China’s problems is the typhoon season as it’s conveniently located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. You’ll never know if you’ll need it.

8. Will I need a translator when in China?

According to some accounts, you will not have trouble finding people who speak English while you’re there, contrary to popular belief. However, if you go to the countryside, there might be a possibility that some people might not understand you.

In this case, it’s handy to download a translator on your phone just to make sure you can communicate the basics with the locals.

9. Can I use my local currency when paying in China? Can I use my credit card?

Foreign currency is not readily accepted as a method of payment, especially in local stores, tourist sites, etc. You can have your money exchanged at foreign exchange counters or banks. You may also use ATMs when you arrive at the airport.

As for credit cards, you may use them to pay major establishments in the cities but it might be hard to use them (or you might not even be able to use them at all!) in the rural areas.

10. How do I go around?

Since most roads in China have already improved and it’s a steadily growing country, you’ll find different methods of transportation while you’re there. Taxis, buses, subway… you name it!

11. Is it easy to get WiFi access in China? Can I use my mobile phone while in China?

The Internet is available anywhere in China. However, some major sites like Facebook and Google are banned and can only be accessed through VPNs. 

As for your mobile phone, you may use it after it’s unlocked by your carrier. You may also opt to buy a SIM card while you’re there, but you will need to present your passport when doing so.

12. Is China safe for tourists?

While you have to always be vigilant as to when you’re in any other country, China is a pretty safe destination for tourists.

There is, however, a travel advisory released by the UK Government regarding the rising air pollution index levels in China. It’s always best to check this information in real-time to avoid any health problems that might be caused by the level of pollution in the air.

13. Can I visit Hong Kong or Macau while I’m in China with the same visa?

No. This already counts as entering another country so unless you’re eligible to enter these two nations without a visa or by getting a visa on arrival, you have to apply for a separate one.

14. Where should I go while in China?

That’s a tough question because honestly, China’s so big and so full of things to do or sights to see that we might even run out of time to discuss them! 

For starters, it’s recommended that you visit major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Here, you will find the famous historical spots like the Forbidden City (Beijing) which used to house Chinese royals before they were overthrown by the Republic in 1911.

Beijing also has other world-famous structures like the Great Wall of China (which is a must when you visit China), Tiananmen Square, and the Bird’s Nest which was built for the Olympics. All these attractions have modern buildings and colorful billboards of Beijing as its background, making such a contrasting yet interesting view of the city.

As for Shanghai, the biggest city in China, you’ll be greeted by the sight of towering skyscrapers and brightly-lit streets. Here, you’ll find ancient temples and modern museums standing almost side-by-side.

During the night, you can go and take a trip onboard the Bund underwater train or walk around Nanjing Road to do some shopping. Shanghai is also home to a Disneyland Park if you’re up for some adventure.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

How to Find the Best Hotels in New York?

Top california destinations for families to enjoy, scuba diving and snorkeling in the philippines, what are the benefits of booking flight tickets in advance, unforgettable moments: maximizing your monaco vacation, related posts, things to do in uzbekistan : my 5-day travel itinerary to tashkent, samarkand and bukhara, 10 awesome things to do in riyadh, saudi arabia, 8 cultural gems of colombo, diy travel guide to singapore [with suggested tours], previous post, 15 things to do in samarkand, uzbekistan, travel guide to manama, bahrain [with sample itinerary], subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

*To  apply for the emergency humanitarian visa for the purpose of arranging funeral matters or visiting a family member in critical medical conditions in China, applicants shall submit the identity document of the deceased or critically ill patient (such as a Chinese identity card or a foreign passport), a death certificate or a medical certificate of the patient issued by the hospital, proof of kinship, and other necessary documents as required.

III.  Application Procedures:

To apply for the above visas, applicants are required to fill in the online application form and make an appointment on the  Chinese Visa Application Service Centre  (CVASC) website before submitting applications in person on the date of the appointment and having their  ten fingers ’ fingerprints collected. Children under the age of 14 and adults above the age of 70 are not required to go to the  CVASC  for such biometric information collection. Please contact the CVASC for specific procedures, visa application requirements, processing time and fees.

IV.  Diplomatic, service or courtesy visa applicants shall also submit applications at the CVASC. The applicants are not required to pre-book time slots, but shall complete and print out the online application forms in advance.

V.  Foreign nationals who apply for visas for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or the Macao Special Administrative Region can submit applications to the  CVASC  during business hours with no need for pre-booked appointments.

VI.  Visa applications for visiting purposes which are not included above will not be accepted at the moment.

VII.  Holder of a valid Chinese residence permit, or valid permanent documents and APEC Business Travel Cards ( excluding Virtual ABTC) does not need to apply for a new visa for entry into China .

• Authentications
• Change password

Find the right China Visa for your trip with price, requirements, and application time

Having to get a visa to China takes all the fun out of traveling. We are here to get it back. Just apply online below and let us do the rest

Call us FREE

• › China Visa

China visa Types

You can apply for a Tourist and Business e Visa with VisaHQ. This section contains the basic information about each one and their requirements. You don’t have to visit the Chinese consulate to get these visas; you will only need to complete the application form and submit it for approval.

Please complete your Health Declaration form only after you have checked-in on your flight to China, as you will need to enter your actual seat number in the form. The Health declaration is only valid for 24 hours from the time of completion. Please have the QR-code (which you will receive once you have completed the health declaration form) available as you need to present it to the airline representative at the time of boarding the flight

Unfortunately, at this time VisaHQ does not provide service for

A visa is not required for this destination.

China Tourist visa fees for citizens of Russia

China visa policy.

China’s Immigration Act 2003 is the law that regulates the entry, exit, and residency of foreigners who visit Mainland China and its surrounding territories. Anybody looking to visit Mainland China must obtain a visa unless they are from one of the visa-exempt countries. As for the two administrative regions of Macau and Hong Kong, any visitor who intends to visit the region must apply for separate visas as these territories have their visa requirements.

Chinese visas are issued inside and outside China by diplomatic missions and Entry and Exit Administrations called EEAs. For a foreigner from a non-visa-exempt country to enter China, they must apply for a visa outside China, and these visas are not valid for trips to Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan.

China Visa-Free Countries

There are more than a dozen countries on China’s visa-free list whose citizens do not require visas to enter the country unless they wish to stay much longer than the accepted period without extending their stay. While most have mutual visa-free agreements with China, others are granted unilateral visa waivers. If your country is not on the visa waiver list you need a visa to enter China.

Visa Free Passports for Official Assignment

Visitors from the selected countries who hold official public affairs passports don’t need visas to enter China especially if they are coming for official assignments. 

China Tour Groups

Citizens from some countries may visit China without a visa for up to 30 days if accompanied by a tour operator registered in both countries.  The countries are Azerbaijan,  Moldova, Georgia, Turkmenistan and Russia. 

The number of  nationalities eligible for tour group visas keep changing and at why no means static as more countries may be added in future.

Note:  Tourists from Canada, New Zealand, the USA, and South Korea can get a tour group or business visa online and stay for 15 days, but the visa will only be valid for 30 days.

China Online Visa

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issues online visas to eligible visitors who meet the requirements. These online visas can be obtained online by submitting a completed application form. Online visas are single-entry visas. This visa is open to nationals from all European Union countries and most countries on the visa exempt list.

Key Details About The China Online Visa

In this section, we want to review key details to remember so you are never in doubt about how to conduct yourself in China and the dos and don’ts of the visa application process.

Mainland China Only

First, you should note that e-visas for China are strictly for Mainland China only and not for other semi-autonomous zones and regions like Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. If you plan to visit these places, you should apply for separate visas for these regions, as your e visa will not cover these areas.

Apply Outside China

You must apply for the e visa while you are outside China, not while you are inside the country.

Seeking Extension

Suppose your trip will last longer than the number of days granted, but you would like to stay for a little while longer. In that case, you must pay a visit to the local office of the Chinese Immigration Administration in the province where you are applying for an extension. The officer in charge will ask why you want to remain in the country and may likely ask for evidence. If your application is granted, the officer will extend your stay based on their discretion.

It Is Illegal To Overstay

As is the case with many other nations, it is illegal to stay in China on an expired visa. China has very strict immigration laws, so bear this in mind. To avoid a lapse of judgment, set your alarm for the day your visa expires and plan your itinerary accordingly. Also, make sure to leave the country on the day or before your visa expires if you will not be seeking an extension.

It is not a Work Visa

The Chinese online tourist or business visa is not a work visa, so you cannot enter into any employment agreement and actively work while in the country. The visa is only for short-term visits and nothing less. If you want to work or study in China, apply to the Embassy or Consulate in your country for a consular visa.

You Will Need A Printed Copy

As a tourist, transit or business visitor to China you will need to bring a copy of your online visa along for clearance.  The immigration officers on duty will request it to validate your identity. 

Travel With The Same Passport

The passport you travel with should be the same one you used to apply for the visa. Our e visa is linked to the passport and that is the document information the Chinese authorities will have in their database. If you bring a different passport you will not be allowed into that country. In case you discover that your passport will expire anytime soon, endeavor to apply for a new one before submitting your visa application.

Special Requirements For Business Visitors

Business visitors must provide additional information regarding their activities in China. Their cover letter must be signed and bear vital information about the purpose of their visit, places of interest, arrival and departure date and any other relevant information. If they are invited by a host they must show a letter of invitation forwarded to them for the purpose of the trip. As for those representing their organizations, their employer must issue them a letter spelling out all necessary details about their identity and mission.

China Visa Online – Get your China e-Visa with VisaHQ

If you are considering a trip to China for a short visit and you are from an eligible country, you don’t need to visit the Chinese consulate in your country to apply for a visa. You can submit an online visa application with VisaHQ and receive the visa through your email if your application is approved. Many visitors have turned to VisaHQ for their online application, and you can do so as well.

How To Obtain A Visa With VisaHQ

You can apply for a tourist or business e-visa with VisaHQ by following our simple and fast application process. With an internet-connected mobile phone or laptop, you can apply for the E-visa from the comfort of your home and get it done within minutes. The great part is that you don’t need an agent, as you can do it all by yourself. Here are the steps that you need to follow:

Fill out The Online E-visa Application Form: To set the ball rolling, the first thing you need to do is to pick the visa you want ( tourist or business visa) and then fill out the application form with the correct details that match what is on your passport and other travel documents.

Upload Your Documents:  Attach your documents by uploading them. The documents you upload will depend on the visa you are applying for. Remember, each visa has its unique requirements, so make sure to go through the requirements properly.

Submit:  Once you have uploaded the documents, make the payment, and submit the application.

Get Your Visa:  If your visa application is approved, the visa will be sent to your verified email address. Make sure you print out a copy for your trip to avoid any issues at the airport, as the immigration officers will ask for it.

Why Choose VisaHQ

Many people have come to trust VisaHQ because of our streamlined and seamless application process. If you would like to apply for any of the available Chinese e visas, this platform is the best option for the following reasons:

• We are a trusted brand with more than 2 decades of experience
• We have representatives scattered across 6 countries in several locations to provide value-added services to our clients
• Fast and easy application process. Our application process takes only some minutes to complete
• You can apply for more than one visa in less time
• Our site is safe and secure, so your sensitive information will not fall into the wrong hands
• Provide round the clock technical support
• You can track your application from your phone

Enjoy all these and more by choosing VisaHQ as your trusted online visa application platform. Head to the application page now to get started or reach out to our technical staff for more inquiries.

China COVID-19 travel restrictions

• Entry is open China currently allows foreign nationals with valid residence permits and visas to enter the country under certain very limited conditions. Prior to arrival requirements Valid passport. Valid national passport with at least 6 month remaining validity after the date of departure. Valid visa. Please see the instructions above if visa is needed and apply. Negative COVID-19 test . Those permitted to enter China will be required to submit a health declaration, and provide negative PCR results, no older than 48 hours before travel. Health form. . Certified Health Declaration Form (HDF) or a Health Declaration Code (HDC) — electronic or hardcopy must be presented at check in. How to Get an HDC or HDF: 1) take the required tests within 2 days before departure (whether or not you have the COVID-19 vaccine): COVID-19 nucleic acid and IgM serum antibody tests in designated labs or institutions. 2) submit the negative test certificates issued by the testing organization and other information on their site . 3) if confirmed, you will get a certified HDF/HDC from the website. Upon arrival restrictions No quarantine for those whose health declaration and entry inspection produce normal results. In case of a positive test result or any symptoms such as fever detected by China Customs, travelers will take an antigen test. Those who test positive in the test will need to self-quarantine. 😷 Masks are required in public spaces and transport.

Find us near you

To read about china visas.

• China visa for Canadian passport holders
• China visa for US citizens
• Visa for China from UK
• China visa application form Philippines
• China visa for Indians
• China visa for Egyptian
• How long does it take to get a visa to China
• Visa for China from Australia
• China visa requirements for Nigerian citizens
• China visa for Sweden
• China visa from Pakistan
• China visa service in Boston
• China visa in Houston
• China visa in Los Angeles
• China visa in NYC
• Visa to China in San Francisco
• China visa in Denver
• China visa in Auckland
• China visa process
• China tourist visa invitation letter
• China business visa letter of invitation
• China visa application photo
• China visa vaccine
• How long can you stay in China without a visa
• How to get a business visa for China
• Transit visa for China
• Visa for China in Vancouver
• China visa in Toronto
• Which countries can travel to China without visa
• Do i need a transit visa for China
• 144 hour visa China
• China visa rush service
• Multi entry visa China
• China visa application for Kenyans
• Double entry visa China
• Medical checks for China visa
• China visa validity
• Do i need a visa if i have a layover in China
• Bio visa for China
• Emergency visa to China
• Where do i get a visa for China
• How fast can i get a China visa
• China visa fees in Mumbai
• Visa China in Jakarta
• Visa China in Sydney
• China visa office Melbourne
• Visa for China in Calgary
• China visa in Austin
• China visa in San Jose
• China visa application in Edinburgh
• Visa for China in Stockholm
• Visa China in Barcelona
• China visa in Surabaya
• China visa services in Manchester
• China visa in London
• How to get a visa for China
• What is M visa in China
• Visa for China from Bahrain
• China visa form South Africa
• Dominica China visa waiver
• Visa China from Argentina
• Visa for China from South Africa
• Visa China from Chile
• Visa China from Costa Rica
• China visa from UAE
• China visa from New Zealand
• China visa for Malaysian
• China visa from Hong Kong
• China visa from Thailand
• Visa China from Indonesia
• Visa to China from Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions about China visa

China embassy list in united states of america, china customs, what travellers say about china visa service.

Whooops! Server is in the spirit world. Please, try again later

Refresh the page

Have you always dreamt of touring China on one of your holidays? If you have, then a China tourist visa or the China L visa is what you need. This visa is valid for 10 years and is suitable for foreign nationals who want to be frequent visitors to China.

The L visa grants the holder multiple entry access into China, and they can stay for up to 3 months for business or tourism, but the maximum stay depends on the purpose of travel and the nationality of the L visa holder. Some foreign citizens are allowed to stay for a maximum of 120 days per visit, while others can stay for 30-90 days per visit.

If you plan to get a China tourist visa, here are the key reasons you should go ahead and do so.

The tourist visa process saves time since you will not need to apply for a new visa anytime you want to travel to China. Once it is issued to you, you can enter China at any time for the next 10 years until it expires. This is one of the greatest benefits of holding an L visa.

Saves Money

It will interest you to know that the L visa or tourist visa application costs the same amount as other short-term visas to China. Once you pay the application fee, you never have to pay for visa processing again for the next 10 years, which makes it a great way to save money.

Travel Anywhere

Just like many other visas issued to foreigners by the Chinese government, the L visa allows the holder to travel to any Chinese province once they enter the country for business or pleasure. You enjoy unrestricted access to many parts of the country, like Chinese citizens.

Eligible China L Visa/Tourist Visa Countries

The L visa is not issued to all foreign countries but only a selected few. The eligible countries are Argentina, Canada, Israel, the United Kingdom, and the United States. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, you are eligible for an L visa.

What Can You Use The China Tourist Visa For?

This visa is issued to eligible visitors for the following reasons.

This is the main purpose for the issuance of this visa. Tourists from qualified countries who wish to spend their holidays in China or go on sightseeing missions may apply for the L visa.

Private Visits

Another thing you can use it for is private visits. Any legal visit that doesn’t fall under other categories is classified as a private visit.

Persons with business interests in China or those who wish to conduct short-term commercial activities in the country may apply.

Family Reunions

China has a population of over 1.2 billion people, and a significant population lives outside China. There are also foreigners who have made the country their home for many years. To help families facilitate reunions, the government introduced the L visa so citizens and families of expatriates may visit their loved ones in China as often as they want.

How To Apply For a Tourist Visa

It is quite easy to apply for the 10 year China visa, but you must follow the necessary steps. Here are the steps to take with the Chinese visa application form.

Download The Visa Application Form

L visa application is done online, so you must download the online application form. The form has a box or field where you can tick the 10-year visa or write 10 years in the provided box.

Enter Personal Details & Submit Your Documents

The next step is to enter your details accurately and attach the necessary documents. In the next paragraph, we will outline the documents you need to provide before you can visit China.

Pay The Application Fee

The next step is to pay the application fee. Visa fees are paid online, so you need a debit or credit card with sufficient funds. After paying the visa fee, you can submit the form for processing by clicking the submit button.

Chinese Visa Documents

Find below the document required to complete the application process.

Passport: You need a valid passport that will not expire for the next 6 months. Passports must have a few blank pages, at least. The applicant must scan and upload the passport bio page.

Photograph: A recent photo taken not later than 6 months ago must be scanned and uploaded. The picture must be passport-sized with a white background.

Round Trip Ticket:  A round trip ticket or letter of invitation for the China visa.

Itinerary: Valid documents showing the applicant’s itinerary, including hotel booking.

Invitation Letter: Visa applicants must provide a certificate of the employer or company inviting them to China. The purpose of the trip must also be stated clearly in the completed visa application form.

Applying for a China tourist visa is not a cumbersome task if you use the right online platform. Visit VisaHQ to fill out and submit the application form.

China is the second largest national economy in the world and has become a first class destination for international business. Every year, the number of visitors coming to China as the economy expands, leading to a growing number of visa applications. One of the leading visas you may apply for is the China business visa or the China M visa, which is popularly called.

In this article, we review the M visa in detail and show the required documents to apply and the application process to follow.

China Business Visa

The China business visa or the M visa is a travel document issued to foreigners who visit China for trade and general commercial activities such as attending trade fairs, meeting with business partners, or visiting clients, among other reasons. This visa has a long-term validity of 10 years and guarantees the holder multiple entries into China for as long as it remains valid.

Only a handful of foreign nationals qualify for an M visa, though, such as citizens of the US, UK, Israel, Canada, and a few others. A close substitute for the M visa is the F visa which is also a business visa but designed for academic exchange students, researchers, conference attendees, and university collaborators. The category F visa is only valid for 3-6 months and allows the holder to enter not more than twice.

The China business visa or the M visa is a travel document issued to foreigners who visit China for trade and general commercial activities such as attending trade fairs, meeting with business partners, or visiting clients, among other reasons. This visa has a long term validity of 10 years and guarantees the holder multiple entries into China for as long as it remains valid.

The China visa has made it easy for citizens of eligible countries to visit and do business in China for a decade. Enjoying multiple entries for that long makes it a visa of choice for business persons. Moreover, the visa allows the holder to stay in China for 30-120 days, depending on their nationality and the purpose of their visit.

China Business Visa Requirements

The China business requirements are as follows.

Passport: The applicant must scan and upload the bio page of their passport showing their image and personal details. The actual signed passport must have a minimum validity of at least 6 months or more. We recommend applying for the M visa with a fresh passport so it will serve you for a long time. Also, the passport must contain blank visa pages for Chinese immigration officers to stamp the visa upon your arrival.

Photograph: The photograph must be a recent one taken not later than 6 months before the day. The picture must show your face clearly, including the top of your shoulder, on a white background. Do not wear a white shirt, headgear, eyeglasses, or religious attire. Also, note that the picture must be colored and 48mmx33mm wide.

Letter of Invitation: An invitation letter issued to the applicant by the Chinese organization or enterprise. The letter must be printed on the company letterhead and contain information about the trip and your reasons for visiting.

Cover Letter: A business cover letter may also be required. Cover letters must be addressed to the China embassy.

Proof of Residency: The applicant must provide proof of their current residence which may be a driver’s license, utility bills, or any valid government-issued ID card.

Personal Details: The applicant’s personal details must be the same as what appears on their documents. Some of the information required are full name, current address, and more. Proof of residence requires water or electricity bills. Phone or cable bills are not accepted.

Note: Applicants may be asked to provide a signed visa application form letter and a birth certificate but this is not always the case. Consider contacting the Chinese embassy or any of its consulate offices to enquire.

How To Complete The China Business Visa Application Form

Note that the Chinese government is very strict regarding visa applications; the slightest error may lead to application rejection, so be careful. Crosscheck your entries properly before you submit the form.

Here are key points to take note of when filling out the form.

The M business form is completed online, so you will need an internet-connected smartphone or laptop

Make sure you fill all required fields with accurate information

Enter your name just as it appears on your passport

Forms should be printed on a single side

Enclose all documents in an enclosed kit

Printed forms must be signed with black or blue ink

These are key points to note when completing the visa application form. If you do it correctly, you will experience no delays, and the visa will be approved in record time.

Do you want an urgent visa application? Do you want to apply for a China business visa? Log onto VisaHQ to complete the application form.

Visitors traveling to China need a visa to enter the country but don’t use the same visa. The Chinese government has expanded the visa application process to include different types of visas for multiple purposes so foreigners can easily obtain a visa of their choice. One common visa issued by the authorities is a China non commercial visa, also called the China F visa.

Many who are not conversant with the Chinese immigration system may be confused about the proper visa to apply for. This post is dedicated to the non commercial visa for visa applicants. Read on to learn more.

The China F Visa

The China F visa or noncommercial visa is issued to foreigners who wish to visit China for non commercial reasons: It is not a business visa. The visitor may wish to visit for cultural exchange programs, lectures, investigation, or scientific research. As long as it is a non business activity, it is tagged a non commercial endeavor.

The F visa allows the holder to stay in China for up to 30 days starting from the day of entry. This visa was introduced in 2013 to cater to the special needs of non commercial visitors. It is also not suited for people coming to China for tourism, private visits, employment, diplomacy, study, or business. An F visa is only meant for cultural, academic, and investigative activities.

The good thing about F visas is that applicants can apply for a longer duration, above 30 days, if their engagement will take more time. They only have to state the need for a longer time in their application form, and the immigration officer handling their application will grant them more time according to their needs. Furthermore, applicants don't have to visit the Chinese embassy in their home countries to apply for the F visa.

Overall, the non commercial visa is a single entry visa, not a double entry visa, meaning that the holder cannot use it to enter China more than once. Even if they depart China before the expires, the exit automatically makes the F visa invalid, so they cannot use it again.

Who Is The F Visa For?

The China F visa is for foreign nationals engaged in non commercial ventures. Visitors with this visa are not allowed to engage in any form of direct paid work or employment during their short stay in China. They must also not receive salaries from an individual or establishment as that would constitute a violation.

F Visa Documents & Requirements

These are the application requirements for the China F visa.

Passport: The applicant needs a valid passport with at least 6 months left before it expires. The passport used to fill out the form must be the same passport presented to immigration officers at the airport.

Completed Visa Application Form: The application form must be completed with answers for every section. Applicants must provide truthful and accurate information or risk application rejection.

Passport size picture: A recent passport-sized colored picture taken not later than 6 months ago. The picture must show the applicant’s face and top shoulder clearly. Headgear, glasses, jewelry, and religious coverings are not allowed.

Documents: The applicant must provide one of these documents depending on the purpose of their trip; invitation letter, confirmation letter, conference notices, or an individual or institutionally authorized letter of notice.

What A Letter Of Invitation Should Contain?

A letter of invitation should contain the following details.

The applicant’s full name, date of birth, and gender

Purpose of the planned visit, arrival date, and departure date. Places of visit and the relationship between the inviting entity and the applicant. Source of finance for expenses

Information of the inviting individual or entity – contact name, official stamp, signature, address

Some applicants may be required to submit a copy of their return flight ticket, proof of funds, and hotel reservation. Scan and upload them if they are required.

The China F Visa app fee is ever-changing, so find out how much the current cost is in your country and pay it online using a debit or credit card containing sufficient funds. For countries like Pakistan, Slovakia, and Bulgaria, the F visa application is free.

You can apply for a China Visa online rather than visit the Chinese consulate in your home country. Visit VisaHQ to complete the application form. You can also scan and upload your documents on the portal and submit them for approval.

If you plan to visit China for a short time, you should consider applying for a China private visa, popularly called an s2 short-term visa. This visa is ideal for visitors who wish to visit their family members who are not Chinese citizens. The family member may be an expatriate working in the country or schooling. As long as the relative is living in China or has been in the country for a significant period, you can apply for a China private single entry visa or the double entry visa if you are from an eligible country.

What Do You Need To Apply For A China Private Visa?

When applying for a private visa, you must complete the online application form with the right details so you don't have to visit the Chinese consulate. The following will also be required.

Applicants must provide their international passport with a minimum of 6 months validity well beyond the date they arrive in China. The 6l months validity is for single entry private visas, but a minimum of 12 months is required for multiple entry private visas.

Also, note that the passport must have a minimum of 3 blank pages for visa stamps. However, note that the last 3 pages of the passport do not count as suitable blank pages. If your current passport does not have sufficient pages, it is advisable to apply for a new passport before applying for a private visa.

Holders of any other Chinese visa must submit their old passport if they have obtained a new one when applying for the private visa. In addition to the passport, the applicant must provide proof of residence to back their application.

Proof of Residence

A document to prove your residence is required. A driver's license or utility bill will suffice. The document must show the applicant's full name and address.

Covid Vaccination

After the Covid 19 virus outbreak of 2020, the government of China mandates foreigners coming into the country to provide evidence that they have received the COVID-19 vaccine. A photocopy of the vaccination certificate must be provided.

Passport Type Photograph

The applicant must provide a passport-type photograph taken not later than 6 months before it is used; the photograph must be printed in color with a white background. The applicant's face must be visible, with no spectacles, hats, or jewelry that will distort the image.

Application Form

The visa application form will contain all the applicant's data, so it must be completed carefully. Application forms can be downloaded online and completed. Only one-sided printed forms are accepted.

Kindly note that you will not be able to edit the application form once you submit it, so endeavor to crosscheck all the information you provide before you submit it.

Online Visa Fee Payment

Visa fees are payable with a debit or credit card, and the fees are not the same for citizens of different countries. Ensure that the card you use contains sufficient funds to cover the application fee and the service charge.

Invitation Letter

The invitation letter is one document you must take seriously when applying for a China private visa, as a poorly written letter may lead to rejection. All intending visitors must scan and upload a copy of an invitation letter forwarded to them by their family members living or working in China.

The invitation letter must contain the following

Personal Information: The letter must contain the applicant's name, address, gender, date, passport number, and date of birth.

Details of trip: The letter must clearly state the purpose of the visit and the relationship between the applicant and the individual inviting them to China. It must also clearly establish the sponsor responsible for the applicant's living expenses during their stay in China.

Information of Inviter: The personal information of the person inviting the applicant over must be clearly stated. The letter must contain their contact address in China, phone number, name, and signature.

The letter must be scanned and submitted along with the application form and other documents. Note that the visa officer may request the original copy of the invitation letter.

Proof of Kingship

The Chinese visa officer will also want to know if the applicant and the inviter are kin and may demand proof of kinship. A copy of a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or a notarized certificate of kinship is acceptable. The certificate must prove that both individuals are truly related by blood or marriage (husband and wife).

If your documents are genuine, the visa will be issued to you within 1-7 working days. T lol avoid delays, crosscheck every information you provide to ensure accuracy.

You can apply for a China private visa in under 20 minutes online. Log onto VisaHQ to complete the application form today.

China family visa, China spouse visa (Q2 visa)

Have you heard of the China family visa or the Q2 visa, as it is often called? This is a visa issued to relatives of Chinese citizens who are not Chinese but wish to visit family members in China. China is a nation of over a billion people, and many Chinese marry outside China; that is why many have relatives outside the country.

To make it easy for their relatives to visit China at any time, the government of China has created a special type of visa called the Q2 visa or the China family visa. Holders of this visa also qualify for a permanent residence permit, allowing them to stay in the country for less than 180 days. Q2 family visas are similar to Q1 visas, the only difference being that the Q1 visa allows for longer stays beyond 180 days.

Let's look at the difference between Q1 and Q2 visas so you'll be better informed about both.

Q1: The Q1 visa allows the holder to stay for more than 180 days as is for applicants with family ties to Chinese citizens who may be their sons, daughters, spouses, spouses of sons or daughters, sisters, brothers, grandparents, grandsons, and granddaughters or parent in-laws. This visa is also available for those coming to China for foster care.

Q2: The Q2 visa, on the other hand, is for applicants whose relatives are Chinese citizens too. The visa allows the single holder to enter China but cannot hold an automatic permanent residency; instead, they must apply for a temporary residency. Q2 visa applicants may qualify for 1-5 years of residency, but they can enter it exit China as long as the visa is valid.

However, kindly note that a Q2 visa may be valid for a minimum of 30 – 180 days and allows for single or double entries; there are even multiple entry Q2 visas too. The visa is highly flexible and issued based on the Applicant's need and eligibility.

China Family (Q2) Visa Requirements

The Q2 visa applicant must submit a valid passport as part of the documentation. Only passports valid for more than 6 months are accepted. Us citizens can apply for a 10-year Q2 visa if they have a passport valid for one year or longer. They must scan and upload the bio page of the passport

Visa Application Form

A completed Q2 application form is required. All entries must be accurate with no room for errors. Wrong entries may lead to application rejection.

Recent Photo

A recent colored passport sized photo taken not later than 6 months ago. The photo must be clear, showing the face, ears, and top shoulder of the Applicant. The photo should be uploaded in jpeg format.

A letter of invitation from the family member living in China issued to the Applicant must be uploaded. The sender may either be a Chinese citizen or a foreigner living in China with a permanent resident permit. The letter must contain vital information such as

Applicant's full name, date of birth, and gender

Information about the trip such as their arrival and departure date, place of residence when they arrive, duration of stay in residence, the relationship between inviter and Applicant, and sources of funds to finance the trip

Information of the person inviting the Applicant, such as their contact address, phone number, official stamp, and signature.

 Passport/Residency Permit

The Applicant must also upload the passport or permanent resident card of the relative inviting them to China.

If you have all these documents, you can successfully apply for a Q2 China family visa.

How To Apply

Those seeking this visa will have to approach the Chinese embassy or consulate in their country. They can also approach a China visa application outfit because Chinese embassies do not accept this type of visa application by mail. Some China visa application center in some countries allows applicants to send their applications by post but charge extra for this service.

Others require the Applicant to arrive in person to submit their application. So check with the embassy in your country to see how they operate. The normal processing time for this visa is 4 working days, so we recommend you apply for it a few weeks before your planned date for your trip.

China talent visa (China R visa)

Have you heard of the China talent visa or the China R visa? This special visa was created by the government of China to attract foreign talents into the country to boost productivity and innovation. Many people who wish to enter China to leverage their talents can do so using a talent visa.

Applying for a China talent visa is easy if you have the necessary information at your fingertips. This post contains valuable information about the talent visa and how to qualify for it.

China Talent Visa

The talent visa also called the R visa, is issued to foreigners who are talented in one field or another. R visa allows talented foreigners to stay and work in the country if they desire to. This travel document is a multiple entry visa valid for 5-10 years. The good thing about it is that it also qualifies their spouses and children for relative visas so they can also visit and stay in China too. A talent visa holder can stay in China for up to 180 days per visit.

An Extension Of The Z Visa

The R visa is an extension of the Z visa, which allows foreign nationals to work in China if they possess a work permit or work certification issued by the Chinese government through any of its agents. The main goal of the R visa is to attract foreign talents into China and to make it possible for holders to settle in the country and invite their relatives over if they wish to.

 The government policy on local talent has been expansive, which is why thousands of foreigners have visited the country in recent years and are doing well in the country.

Who Is A High-Level Talent?

The term “ high level talent” is a grey area that leaves many confused, but it shouldn’t be. According to the Chinese government, a high level talent is a highly skilled individual with special qualities that are in short supply in China; that is to say that not many people possess such skills in the country, leading to rising demand for such talents.

Below we provide examples of high level talents

 Talent Introduction Programs: Any foreigner who has joined a talent introduction program that is accredited but any of the Chinese talent management authorities is a high level talent. Such programs include the CAS Hundred Talents Project, Introduction of Renowned Professors, 100 Talents Plan or the 1000 Talent Plan

Professional Accomplishment: Those with professional accomplishments in different fields have been recognized for it, such as Nobel Prize winners, Academy of Science or Engineering scholars, professors, and vice professors of the top 200 universities in the world.

Market oriented position: Foreigners who are managers of market oriented businesses supported by the government. They could be managers at Fortune 500 companies, or senior staff of China owned enterprises.

China Talent Visa Requirements

Here is the documentary requirement for a talent visa.

Valid Passport

The applicant requires a passport with at least 6 months of validity. A copy of the bio page should be attached to the application form.

Applicants should accurately fill out the form with the right details and append their signatures to it.

A recent passport sized colored photo was taken no later than 6 months ago. The photo should be ok a white or light blue, or grey background

Confirmation Letter

A letter confirming that the applicant is indeed a High level talent. The letter should be obtained from the provincial Bureau of Foreign Experts, the body responsible for confirming top foreign talent.

  Note: The Chinese embassy or consulate may request any other document to validate your Chinese visa application.

Things To Know

Anyone working in China with an R visa must apply for a work permit with the help of the organization they work for. Work permit applications must be submitted to the Foreigners Working Management Bureau or related agencies using their passports, employment contracts, R visa, etc. They may be asked to present themselves for physical examination. They must also provide the same documents if they wish to renew their work permit.

China talent visa requires the right documents if you want your application to be successful. So ensure that all your documents are in order before submitting your application to the embassy or consulate.

China work visa (China z visa)

China is home to millions of foreign nationals who live and work in the country. The government of China is still accepting foreign workers in selected industries, but to qualify to work in the country, you must obtain a China work visa. 

Foreign citizens are not allowed to work in China unless they obtain this document, so to help you out, we review the Chinese visa, as it is popularly called, and the application requirements.

China Work Visa

A work visa is a special kind of visa issued to foreigners who handle paid jobs in the country or engage in any art-related venture that earns them income. The visa may only be valid for 30 days, but it allows the holder to remain in the country while their employer helps them apply for a temporary resident permit to cover the duration of their contract.

The Z visa has opened access to many foreign nationals who now legally live and work in China. However, this visa is not given freely to just anyone. You need to qualify for the Z visa by submitting the required documents with your visa application form.

A work visa Is a special kind of visa issued to foreigners who handle paid jobs in the country or engage in any art-related venture that earns them income. The visa may only be valid for 30 days, but it allows the holder to remain in the country while their employer helps them apply for a temporary resident permit to cover the duration of their contract.

What You Need To Apply For A China Work Visa

The applicant needs a valid passport to apply for a work visa. The passport must be valid for at least six months. The information page of the passport must be printed out and attached to the application form. Furthermore, the passport must have nothing less than 2 blank pages for immigration officers to insert their visa stamps.

Frayed, torn, or altered passports will not be accepted.

The Chinese embassy will require a photo that meets their strict requirements. All photos must be recent and not taken later than 6 months to the day. They must be taken on a white background with the applicant's face, top shoulder, and physical characteristics clearly visible. Your mouth must be closed, and jewelry, headgear, or any religious covering is not permitted. Also, applicants must not wear a white shirt.

Photo must be printed on quality paper without staples or tapes. It must also be 48mm long and 33mm wide.

The invitation letter sent to them by the employer or host must be attached to the work visa application for the Chinese authorities to review. The letter must contain the following details.

The date of planned arrival and duration of stay

The name of the applicant as it appears on their passport

The letter must specially request a China Z visa

Proof of Residency

The applicant must provide a document to prove their current residency. A driver's license, utility bill, or any government issued ID card will do. The card must

Show the applicant's name as it appears on their passport

Show their current address as shown on their visa application form

Note: Only water, electric, or gas bills are acceptable utility bills to prove residency. Cable bills will not be accepted by the Chinese government.

A PU letter is also required to show the consulate in your location.

You cannot apply for a China Work Visa without an application form. visa applications forms must be properly filled with accurate details. It must be

Completed online

Show the name of the applicant as written in their passport

Include answers for all fields

Printed on a single side

Enclosed in other documents required

Special Requirements For PRC Nationals Born Outside Mainland China

Chinese citizens born in Chinese territories outside the mainland, like Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan, who wish to visit and work in China must do the following.

They must write their names in Chinese characters on their application form

They must provide a copy of their recent China visa along with the passport attached to the visa

Those who have never obtained a visa must submit the original copy of their Chinese Passport, Green card copy, and their certificate of Naturalization

Adopted applicants must provide signed copies of their adoption papers displaying the full name of their adoptive parents, certificate of the name change, photographs with parents, and a copy of their naturalization certificate and original birth certificate

Chinese Labor Ministry Document

Applicants must provide a Work Permit For Aliens document issued by the labor ministry for Foreigners.

Proof of Vaccine

Applicants must show a COVID-19 vaccination card. The card must show their vaccination status.

Besides the above-mentioned documents, the Chinese embassy or consulate may request extra documents for a China work visa application.

China student visa (X visa)(China study visa)

Do you wish to study in China in the nearest future? You will need to obtain a China student visa or an X visa if you wish to. China has a thriving educational industry with many tertiary institutions majoring in different disciplines. This has created academic opportunities for foreigners who want to study outside their country.

This post contains valuable information about the China study visa and the application requirements. Read it until the end to learn more.

China Student Visa

The China student visa is a special visa issued to international students coming to China for advanced study in any of the tertiary institutions or fieldwork. X visas are sub divided into

X1 visas long term study above 6 months

X2 visas for short term study below 6 months days.

The government of China introduced both categories to create opportunities for international students who may wish to apply for short or long term courses. The X visa for both courses is valid for 90 days, each counting from the issue date but the number of days the holder can stay varies depending on the applicant's needs. X1 applicants can remain in China for up to a year or more until they complete their course, while X2 visa holders cannot stay for more than 6 months.

If you are an international student, you first need to apply for an accredited course offered by any Chinese institution and get admission before you can apply for a Chinese visa because you need the admission letter to apply for it.

The government of China introduced both categories to create opportunities for international students who may wish to apply for short or long term courses. The X visa for both courses is valid for 90 days, each counting from the issue date but the number of days the holder can stay varies depending on the needs of the applicant. X1 applicants can remain in China for up to a year or more until they complete their course, while X2 visa holders cannot stay for more than 6 months.

China Student Visa Documents & Requirements

Here is a list of documents you need to organize when applying for a China study visa.

You need an original passport issued by your home government through its immigration agency. The passport must be valid for at least six months and have blank visa pages.

An application form dutifully completed showing accurate details for every section. Make sure you take time when filling out the application form because wrong entries may lead to rejection. The information you provide must reflect what you have in your documents.

A recent passport style colored photo taken not later than six months to the day. Photo must show your full face in a frontal view on a white background. You must not wear hats, glasses, or any facial covering.

Admission Notice

A copy of the admission notice or letter issued by the Chinese institution of learning.

JW201/JW202 Form

X1 visa applicants must provide an original and photocopy of their JW201/JW202 student visa application form. The JW201 form will be issued by the school that has given you the admission and is dispatched by the Chinese government while you sponsor JW202.

How To Apply For A China Study Visa?

If you want to apply for a China X visa, you should do the following

Submit your application to the Chinese embassy or consular office in your country

Or better still, you can entrust an agent or family visits to act on your behalf if you can't present yourself. The embassy does not accept mailed application forms

Most Chinese Foreign missions do not request appointments with applicants, but some do. You must present yourself if it is required.

How Long Will It Take To Process My Application

Once you submit your application, it will take about 4 working days to get feedback. If your documents and information are in order, there shouldn't be any delays. We advise applicants to submit their applications at least 2 weeks before their planned date for their trip to make up for unforeseen delays.

Applicants should also note that visa fees may differ from other visa fees, so they should do their findings before they commence the application process.

Applicants should also know that they are entitled to a temporary residence permit issued by the local entry and exit administration within the first 30 days after they enter China. This permit has a validity of 5 years; to apply for one, they need to submit their passport, letter of admission, registration for accommodation, and a passport style photo on a white background.

Lastly, holders of China student visas are not allowed to engage in any paid work unless they obtain a work visa.

Helpline: 0 754 690 5394 | WhatsApp:  0754 690 5394 [email protected] |

Chinese Visa Service Fee from £100

Fingerprint requirements have been introduced which means that almost all applicants will have to travel to Edinburgh/Manchester/London in person. However we would let you spend as little as possible at a guaranteed time of getting you a Chinese visa. Please note that multiple entries TWO YEARS of Chinese visa at a guaranteed processing time of within 5 working days cost £151 charged by Chinese General Consulate of Edinburgh/Manchester/London, visa centre fee charged by Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). We ensure that every penny is money well spent. There is no hidden fee at i2visa UK. All the fees are transparent and competitive in the UK.

Fee Match Guarantee

If you find our fees higher than our competitors located in the UK only, we will match the difference between our fees and the fees you found on the site of other competitors, which MUST submit the visa applications on behalf of their customers in the Chinese Embassy in London, General Chinese Consulate in Manchester or Edinburgh ONLY, at the SAME VISA APPLIATION, SAME ENTRIES, SAME SERVICE and SAME NATIONALITY with the condition in a 15-day window and UK market only after you get your passport and visa at hand.

If you go to China in a few weeks, we will let you enjoy the lowest fee over other agencies, not necessary to pay for an urgent fee. We provide our clients with two different types of lowest fee. One is 5 working days’ standard service; the other is 4 working days’ regular service. These processing time is certainly guaranteed, and is surely confirmed after we receive your documents.

Documents Required for Chinese visa application:

Our team will ask you to provide us with the following documents required by General Chinese Consulate in Edinburgh, Manchester or London, which are shown as follows:

*Regular Service: processing time starts the day of giving your fingerprints to the Chinese Consulate/Embassy.

*Fingerprint requirements: applicants between aged 14 and 69 MUST travel to Edinburgh/Manchester/London in person.

Chinese visa fees in total

The following fees are collected by i2visa UK in terms of Consulate fee or our service fee. Most British nationals will be eligible for Multiple Entries 2 Years but the total fees will be higher for Multiple Entries 5 Years. EDI stands for Edinburgh; MAN stands for Manchester; LON stands for London. 

*Delivery fee £10 will apply on top of these fee for postal application only. NO VAT Fee.

Payment Method (UK Bank Transfer):

Sort Code:  236972 ; Account Number:  29702960 ; Name:  i2visa UK ; Reference:  Applicant's Full Name

Any Questions

Please email us at [email protected] including 48 hours urgent service or Whatsupp:07546905394.

Our i2visa Solution

We submit your application as fast as possible. 48 hours Urgent Service!

Your private information and contact details are strictly protected by our visa consultants.

Any visa enquiries can be questioned by phone and email including weekend and UK public holiday.

Transparency

No Hidden Fee. No Small Print.

Cost-Effective 

Why pay more? Our fee is very competitive in the UK market.

Visa Services for CHINA

British nationals are eligible for 2 years multiple entry visa for China if their purpose of trip is tourist, business or private.

Please note that applicants applying for multiple entry visas (between the age of 14 and 70) are required to attend the Chinese Visa Application Centre in person to provide their fingerprints.

If you apply for a single or double entry visa or if you are over 70 or under 14 years of age, we can apply on your behalf.

We can assist you in completing your application form correctly and arrange the submission of your application at the Chinese Visa Application Centre in London.

Tourist Visa Requirements

What you will need to do to apply:.

• Email us a copy of your passport (please check that   your passport has at least 6 months validity after departure date and with at least 2 blank visa pages, your visa application may be rejected if your passport is damaged) .
• Email us a scanned or digital passport type photo (minimum file size 100KB). Must have white background and comply with all the requirements on this link
• Email us your completed Chinese visa form questionnaire   (link to file below)
• Email us your Flight and hotel confirmation booking for the whole period of your stay in China. If you are applying for a double entry tourist visa, you will need to present flight and hotel confirmation showing the two trips.

Business Visa Requirements

• Email us  a copy of your passport   (please check that   your passport has at least 6 months validity after departure date and with at least 2 blank visa pages, your visa application may be rejected if your passport is damaged) .
• Email us a scanned or  digital passport type photo  (minimum file size 100KB). Must have white background and comply with all the requirements on this  link
• Invitation letter from a Chinese company, addressed to Embassy of the People's Republic of China, 49 Portland Pl, Marylebone, London W1B 1JL, printed on a company letterhead with inviting company's address and contact details. The letter should include ALL of the following: the applicant's full name, gender, passport number, date of birth, purpose of visit, duration of visa required and number of entries, date of arriving and leaving China, place of visit, financial support during stay in China, as well as the inviter's name (company name), contact number, address, stamp and signature in Chinese.

Chinese Visa Prices

Please note that most visas for UK passport holders are now issued multiple entry with 2 years validity. If you are eligible for a 5 year validity visa (you must have used two 2 year visas to be eligible), the consular fee is £64 higher.

Prices include: consular fee, Chinese visa application centre service fee and our visa service fee.

Non-UK nationals can use the urgent processing if they have proof of permanent residence in the UK. 

Passport Delivery Options

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Visas and immigration
• Visit the UK

Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor

Apply for a standard visitor visa.

If you need a Standard Visitor visa, you must apply online before you travel to the UK and attend an appointment at a visa application centre.

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

You must meet the eligibility requirements and only do permitted activities .

Depending on your nationality, you may not need a visa to visit the UK. You can check if you need a visa before you apply.

You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa, or if you visit the UK regularly you can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa instead.

Apply online

Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.

If you’re applying with family members, each person must have their own application and pay the fee. They need to attend their own appointment at a visa application centre.

You can apply on behalf of your partner and child, if they cannot apply for themselves.

Your application will not be accepted and you will not get a refund if you have the right of abode in the UK (for example you’re a British citizen). You need to apply for a certificate of entitlement instead.

Continue your application

You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it. 

Find out how to sign in to your account .

Long-term Standard Visitor visas

You can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa if you visit the UK regularly. This visa lasts 2, 5 or 10 years. You can stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit.

If you’re under 18 years old when you apply , your long-term Standard Visitor visa will only be valid for up to 6 months after you turn 18. You cannot get a refund on the fee.

You may be given a shorter visa than requested if UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) believe you cannot meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa you applied for.

You will not get a refund of the application fee if you get a shorter visa or if your application is refused.

Your visa may be cancelled if your travel history shows you are repeatedly living in the UK for extended periods.

Documents and information you’ll need to apply

You must have a passport or travel document that is valid for the whole of your stay in the UK. There must be a blank page in your passport for your Standard Visitor visa.

You’ll need to provide the following information in your online application:

• the dates you’re planning to travel to the UK
• where you’ll be staying during your visit
• how much you think your trip will cost
• your current home address and how long you’ve lived there
• your parents’ names and dates of birth (if known)
• how much you earn in a year (if you have an income)
• details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences you may have committed

Depending on your circumstances, you might also need to provide:

• details of your travel history for the past 10 years
• your employer’s address and telephone number
• your partner’s name, date of birth and passport number
• the name and address of anyone paying for your trip
• the name, address and passport number of any family members you have in the UK
• a certificate proving that you’ve had a tuberculosis ( TB ) test if you’re visiting for more than 6 months

You need to provide additional documents if you’re visiting the UK:

• as an academic
• for certain paid engagements or events (a ‘permitted paid engagement’
• for medical reasons

You must provide certified translations of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Proving your identity and providing your documents

As part of your online application, you need to book an appointment at a visa application centre. Allow time to attend your appointment, as the visa application centre could be in another country.

At your appointment, you’ll need to:

• prove your identity with your passport or travel document
• have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken
• provide the required documents that show you’re eligible for a Standard Visitor visa

The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

You can check to see if you can get your visa decision faster .

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application . This will explain what you need to do next.

If you need to change or cancel your application

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it, contact UKVI .

You can ask to cancel your application . You’ll only get your fee refunded if the application has not been processed yet.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Become an FT subscriber

Limited time offer save up to 40% on standard digital.

• Global news & analysis
• Expert opinion
• Special features
• FirstFT newsletter
• Videos & Podcasts
• Android & iOS app
• FT Edit app
• 10 gift articles per month

Explore more offers.

Standard digital.

• FT Digital Edition

Premium Digital

Print + premium digital.

Then $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

• 10 additional gift articles per month
• Global news & analysis
• Exclusive FT analysis
• Videos & Podcasts
• FT App on Android & iOS
• Everything in Standard Digital
• Premium newsletters
• Weekday Print Edition

Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

• Everything in Print
• Everything in Premium Digital

The new FT Digital Edition: today’s FT, cover to cover on any device. This subscription does not include access to ft.com or the FT App.

Terms & Conditions apply

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

Create an account

Create a free IEA account to download our reports or subcribe to a paid service.

Oil Market Report - March 2024

About this report

The IEA Oil Market Report (OMR) is one of the world's most authoritative and timely sources of data, forecasts and analysis on the global oil market – including detailed statistics and commentary on oil supply, demand, inventories, prices and refining activity, as well as oil trade for IEA and selected non-IEA countries.

• Global oil demand is forecast to rise by a higher-than-expected 1.7 mb/d in 1Q24 on an improved outlook for the United States and increased bunkering. While 2024 growth has been revised up by 110 kb/d from last month’s Report, the pace of expansion is on track to slow from 2.3 mb/d in 2023 to 1.3 mb/d, as demand growth returns to its historical trend while efficiency gains and EVs reduce use.
• World oil production is projected to fall by 870 kb/d in 1Q24 vs 4Q23 due to heavy weather-related shut-ins and new curbs from the OPEC+ bloc. From the second quarter, non-OPEC+ is set to dominate gains after some OPEC+ members announced they would extend extra voluntary cuts to support market stability. Global supply for 2024 is forecast to increase 800 kb/d to 102.9 mb/d, including a downward adjustment to OPEC+ output.
• Refinery crude runs are forecast to rise from a February-low of 81.4 mb/d to a summer peak of 85.6 mb/d in August. For the year as a whole, throughputs are projected to increase by 1.2 mb/d to average 83.5 mb/d, driven by the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Refining margins improved through mid-February before receding, with the US Midcontinent and Gulf Coast as well as Europe leading the gains.
• Global observed oil inventories surged by 47.1 mb in February. Offshore stocks dominated gains as seaborne exports reached an all-time high and shipping disruptions through the Red Sea tied up significant volumes of oil on water while onshore inventories declined. Global stocks plunged by 48.1 mb in January, with OECD industry stocks at a 16-month low.
• ICE Brent futures rose by $2/bbl during February as ongoing Houthi shipping attacks in the Red Sea kept a firm bid under crude prices. With oil tankers taking the longer route around Africa more oil was kept on water, further tightening the Atlantic Basin market and sending crude’s forward price structure deeper into backwardation. At the time of writing, Brent was trading at $83/bbl.

Oil on water

Benchmark crude oil prices were range bound in early March, as the market had already priced in the announced extension of OPEC+ voluntary production cuts through 2Q24. North Sea Dated rose by $2.13/bbl to $84.66/bbl during February as continued tanker attacks in the Red Sea lengthened supply routes and global on-land oil inventories fell for a seventh consecutive month to reach their lowest level since at least 2016.

Global onshore oil stocks fell a further 38 mb last month, taking the draw down since July to 180 mb, according to preliminary data. Over the same period, oil on water surged. Trade dislocations from the rerouting of Russian barrels and more recently due to unrest in the Middle East, have boosted oil on water by 115 mb. In February alone, oil on water surged by 85 mb as repeated tanker attacks in the Red Sea diverted more cargoes around the Cape of Good Hope. At nearly 1.9 billion barrels as of end-February, oil on water hit its second highest level since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Trade flow disruptions also boosted bunker fuel use. Longer shipping routes and faster vessel speeds saw Singapore bunkering reach all-time highs. That, along with surging US ethane demand for its petrochemical sector underpins a slight upward revision to our global oil demand expectations for this year by 110 kb/d compared with last month’s Report. World oil demand growth is now forecast at 1.3 mb/d in 2024, down sharply from last year’s 2.3 mb/d expansion.

The slowdown in growth, already apparent in recent data, means that oil consumption reverts towards its historical trend after several years of volatility from the post-pandemic rebound. A weaker economic outlook further tempers oil use, as do efficiency improvements and surging electric vehicle sales. Growth will continue to be heavily skewed towards non-OECD countries, even as China’s dominance gradually fades. The latter’s oil demand growth slows from 1.7 mb/d in 2023 to 620 kb/d in 2024, or from roughly three-quarters to half of the global total, under the gathering weight of a challenging economic environment and slower expansion in its petrochemical sector.

As in 2023, non-OPEC+ oil supply growth will eclipse the oil demand expansion by some margin. Led by the United States, non-OPEC+ production is forecast to rise by 1.6 mb/d in 2024 compared to 2.4 mb/d last year when global oil output climbed by 2 mb/d to 102 mb/d. Substantial gains will also come from Guyana, Brazil and Canada, all forecast to pump at record-highs this year. Together, the non-OPEC+ Americas quartet is set to add 1.3 mb/d of new oil production in 2024.

Iran, which last year ranked as the world’s second largest source of supply growth after the United States, is expected to increase production by a further 280 kb/d this year. Output policy for the remainder of the OPEC+ bloc will be revisited when ministers meet in Vienna on 1 June to review market conditions. In this Report, we are now holding OPEC+ voluntary cuts in place through 2024 – unwinding them only when such a move is confirmed by the producer alliance (see OPEC+ cuts extended). On that basis, our balance for the year shifts from a surplus to a slight deficit, but oil tanks may get some relief as the massive volumes of oil on water reach their final destination.

1. Includes extra voluntary curbs where announced. 2. Capacity levels can be reached within 90 days and sustained for an extended period. 3. Excludes shut in Iranian, Russian crude. 4. Angola left OPEC effective 1 Jan 2024. 5. Iran, Libya, Venezuela exempt from cuts. 6. Mexico excluded from OPEC+ compliance. 7. Bahrain, Brunei, Malaysia, Sudan and South Sudan.

Definitions of key terms used in the OMR, access the OMR Glossary here.

For more info on the methodology, download the PDF below.

• Download the methodology circle-arrow

Previous editions

Purchase licence

• 24 months (-10%)
• Unlimited users
• Multiple locations

Need help with your purchase ? Visit our help centre

See if you qualify for a discount. Learn more

Request price

Cite report

IEA (2024), Oil Market Report - March 2024 , IEA, Paris https://www.iea.org/reports/oil-market-report-march-2024

Share this report

• Share on Twitter Twitter
• Share on Facebook Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn LinkedIn
• Share on Email Email
• Share on Print Print

Subscription successful

Thank you for subscribing. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link at the bottom of any IEA newsletter.