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  • A Quick Guide to Chinese Tourist Visas

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Since China does not have mutual visa-free agreements with many countries, ordinary passport holders from most countries who want to visit China as a tourist must obtain a tourist visa (L visa) unless they meet one of the visa exemption criteria.

While it does involve some documentation and logistics, applying for a Chinese tourist visa doesn't require too much effort or time. In this article, we will provide an overview and some tips on how to apply for a tourist visa for China or take advantage of one of the visa exemption policies. Please be aware that all government regulations are subject to change without prior notice. Contact the visa office at the Chinese embassy or consulate nearest you for the latest requirements for a Chinese tourist visa.

Chinese visa

Types of Chinese Tourist Visa

China usually issues three types of tourist visa: single-entry (valid for 3-6 months), double-entry (valid for 6 months), and multiple-entry (valid for 6 or 12 months). Single-entry tourist visas usually grant a maximum stay of 30 days, but you can ask for up to 90 days. The number of days you receive partly depends on the passport you hold. Tourist visas can normally be extended no more than two times within China.

US citizens are eligible for a 10-year multiple-entry visa with a maximum stay of 60 days per entry. In order for US citizens to be eligible for the ten-year visa, US passport holders must have more than one year of validity remaining on their passports. If their passports have one year or less of remaining validity (more than 6 months), they will receive a visa with less than one year of validity.

When and How to Apply for a Tourist Visa

The single-entry tourist visa normally has a validity period of three months so it's best to apply for a China tourist visa 30 to 60 days before your intended date of entry. If you apply too far in advance, the visa may expire before you arrive in China.

Unless you are traveling as part of a group, you will need to arrange your own visa. Some countries have visa agents but this adds substantially to the cost. If you are able to go straight to the embassy/consulate nearest you, it will be cheaper. You can search on the internet to find the Chinese embassy or consulate closest to you. You can also apply for a Chinese visa outside of your home country—just make sure that you are able to fulfill all the application requirements.

Visa applications are normally processed within three to four working days, but you can choose to pay an extra amount for rush service. If you go to the visa office in person, you may be able to get a visa on the same day for a fee.

When applying for Chinese tourist visas, the procedures, requirements, issue time, and fee may vary from country to country. Details and application forms can be found on the website of the Chinese embassy in your country. If you need an invitation letter for your application, we can help issue one.

Whatever country you are applying from, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months at your time of arrival in China.

24, 72, and 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

China allows 24, 72, or 144-hour visa-free stays for travelers from certain countries who transit via mainland China for a third international destination (Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are included).

The 24-hour visa-free transit is relatively simple: it applies to travelers from most countries at most Chinese ports of entry, except the airports in Shenzhen, Yanji, Mudanjiang, Fuzhou, and Huangshan. The stopover time is calculated from your scheduled arrival time until your scheduled departure time. Travelers with this visa-free transit are allowed multiple stops (for example, USA-to-Beijing-to-Guangzhou-to-UK) as long as they leave mainland China within 24 hours.

Xi'an, Chongqing, Guilin, Harbin, and Changsha also allow 72-hour visa-free entry for transiting travelers with passports from certain countries. The 72-hour period is counted from the moment you receive your entry permit. Travelers with this visa-free transit are only allowed to travel within the city they entered. For example, if you enter through Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, you are only allowed to travel within the Xi'an area.

The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Shanghai-Jiangsu-Zhejiang region, Guangdong, Chengdu, Kunming, Xiamen, Qingdao, Wuhan, and Liaoning allow 144-hour visa-free entry for transiting travelers with passports from the same countries as the 72-hour visa-free transit. The 144-hour period starts from 00:00 of the day following your arrival; that usually means a few extra hours to spend in China. Travelers with this visa-free transit are not allowed to travel outside the region or province they enter. For example, if you enter through Beijing, you are only allowed to travel within Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province, so you cannot visit Shanghai and/or depart from Shanghai.

Countries that are eligible for the 72-hour & 144-hour visa-free transit

European countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia (FYROM), Albania, Belarus, and Monaco Countries in the Americas: the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile Countries in Oceania: Australia and New Zealand Asian countries: Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar

Here is a tool from the Chinese government that allows you to check if you are qualified for one of the above forms of visa-free transit.

How to apply for visa-free transit

To apply for any of the above three forms of visa-free transit, you must present your plane, ship, or train ticket with confirmed seat and date (a standby ticket is not acceptable) for a third country that must be different from the country you traveled from. For example, if you are doing a USA-to-Beijing-to-Hong Kong trip, you are eligible for visa-free transit, but if you are doing a USA-to-Beijing-to-USA trip, then you will not be eligible. You may also need a visa for the third country or region if applicable.

Make sure that your passport is valid at least 6 months from the date of entry, and remember to fill the arrival/departure card at the airport or on the airplane before you land before you apply for the visa-free entry permit.

Other Visa Exemption Policies

Travelers holding a valid ordinary passport from one of the following countries are eligible to visit Hainan province for 30 days without a visa: Russia, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, UAE, Qatar, Monaco, Belarus.

Visitors must travel with a travel agency registered in Hainan province. They can enter Hainan Island through any airport or ship port in Hainan province, but are not allowed to travel outside the province.

Foreign travelers arriving in Shanghai on a cruise ship can visit Shanghai and some other Chinese cities (including Beijing) for up to 15 days without a visa provided they leave China on the same ship. Travelers making use of the 15-day visa exemption are required to travel with tour groups (of a minimum of two people) organized by a travel agency that is registered in China. Travel agencies must submit details of their tour groups to the authorities at least 24 hours before the ships arrive in Shanghai; this means that travelers need to book the tour in advance to leave enough time for the travel agency to complete the application.

No visa is required for ordinary passport holders from the following countries: 90 days: San Marino 30 days: Bahamas; Ecuador; Fiji; Grenada; Mauritius; Serbia; Seychelles; Tonga; Barbados (June 1st, 2017) 15 days: Brunei; Japan; Singapore

Travel to Tibet

The requirements for visiting Tibet are very different from those for other provinces in China. All travelers to Tibet must arrange their trip in advance with a registered travel agency. This is the rule and there are no exceptions. Tibetan authorities issue a Tibet Travel Permit only after a traveler has secured a Chinese visa. Depending on the places you would like to visit in Tibet, you may need further documents such as a Military Permit and/or Alien Travel Permit. Contact us for the most up-to-date information on how to travel to Tibet.

Important Note

Be sure to double check the visa requirements at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country before you travel to China, as China's visa policies, especially their visa exemption policies, can be confusing and are subject to change from time to time. Sometimes the visa rules may be interpreted differently by various cruise lines or local officials at the port of entry.

In order to avoid any possible confusion or inconvenience, we suggest that every traveler who plans to take advantage of any visa-free policies check with the relevant port of entry in China or the Chinese embassy/consulate in your country before you travel to China. Before you board the plane bound for China, you can also ask your airline to check if you will be able to get the visa-free entry permit upon arrival. If you are not sure whether you are eligible for the visa-free entry permit, you can instead apply for a regular transit visa or a tourist visa in your home country. If you are planning a tour with us, our travel specialists will also help you with the visa issues. ■

The China Guide is a Beijing-based travel agency that customizes private tours, educational student tours, and incentive trips across China. We have more than ten years of experience crafting tours for tens of thousands of travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and beyond. We promise all our tours have no hidden fees, no shopping stops, no touristy restaurants, just memorable experiences! Learn more about us or contact us to start planning your perfect China trip .

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Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) – The Complete Guide

travel visa for China

If you need information about how to obtain a tourist visa (or L visa) for China, you’ve come to the right place.

If instead, you’re interested in another type of visa (work, student, business, etc) then you can read our complete guide on Chinese visas .

Do I need a visa to visit China as a tourist?

  • You are in transit in China for less than 144 hours .
  • If you’re staying in Shenzhen (on the border of Hong Kong) for less than five days or in Zhuhai (at the border with Macao) for less than three days .
  • If you’re staying on Hainan Island with an organized tour with a minimum of five people for a maximum of fifteen days.

To stay for tourism reasons in Hong Kong or Macao for less than six months no visa is required (depending on your nationality).

When should I apply for a Chinese visa?

Where can i apply for a chinese tourist visa, in your country.

In many countries visas are by now handled by the CVASC ( Chinese Visa Application Service Center ).

As far as the United States goes, you need to contact the Chinese Consulate in your state of residence ( here you’ll find a list of consulates ).

If you’re not a US resident and your country isn’t on the CVASC list (see the link above), then you’ll have to contact one of the Chinese Consulates in your own country.

Note that, aside from rare exceptions, it’s not possible to send your passport and request a visa through the mail; you have to show up in person at the CVASC or at the Chinese Consulate.

If for some reason you don’t want to, or you can’t show up personally, you can use an agency to get your Chinese Visa . This will have a supplementary cost, but it may still be cheaper than the cost of the trip to the nearest CVASC or Chinese Consulate.

In this case, you’ll have to send your passport (and other necessary documents) to the agency and they will handle everything. To apply for a visa service through an agency you can use the form above on the right.

At the moment we recommend Visa HQ, a reputable agency that charges 79 USD for its Chinese Visa service. Click here to learn more!

From 2016, in some cases, you can also apply for a group visa online . You can click on the previous link to learn more.

Even if in theory you can only apply for the visa in your country of residence, in practicality you can also get it elsewhere, so long as it’s a country that holds diplomatic relations with China. The easiest place to get one is certainly Hong Kong. You can check out our complete guide to applying for a Chinese visa in Hong Kong to learn more.

How long will a Chinese visa last?

How much does a chinese visa cost and how long will it take to get one.

In general, obtaining a visa will take four business days. To get a visa in 2-3 business days you can apply for the Express Service (it costs an additional 20 USD); while to get a visa within one business day you can apply for Rush Service (which costs an additional 30 USD). Note that the Rush Service is granted only in documented cases of extreme urgency.

What documents will I need to get a visa?

  • A passport valid for at least six months (that is it will not expire in less than six months and has at least two empty pages);
  • Photocopy of your passport (both the photo page and pages with Chinese visas);
  • A properly filled-out visa application ( you can download it here );
  • Two passport photos;
  • A return air ticket to and from China ( click here to read our guide on flights to China ) plus your intended itinerary during your stay in China;
  • Your proposed itinerary for your stay in China . Even if, in my opinion, it’s a formality since I’ve never heard of anyone getting in trouble for not having followed the itinerary presented during the visa application process (obviously so long as you don’t go to Tibet – or in other limited access areas – without having the necessary permits);
  • Receipt from the hotel, which must be reserved before applying for the visa and contain the full names of all people that will apply for the visa ( click here to read our guide to reserve a hotel in China ).
  • As an alternative to a hotel receipt, you can also present an invitation letter from a Chinese citizen or a foreigner with a residence permit. The letter should contain information about the applicant (such as your name, gender, and date of birth), information about your stay in China (itinerary, length of stay, etc), and information about the person that is inviting you (name, telephone number, address, signature and copy of their Chinese identity card, or if the person isn’t Chinese, a copy of their passport pages containing their photo and residence permit).

How do you read a Chinese visa?

The visa is valid for three or six months from the date of issue. If for example you have a visa valid for three months, the visa will become unusable if you don’t enter into China within three months of the issue date (this is the reason that you don’t want to apply for a visa too soon).

Number of entries

The number of times you can enter and exit China with the same visa. If you have a single entry visa, this will expire automatically once you leave China (note that visiting Hong Kong or Macao counts as leaving the country).

The number of days you can stay in China (starting from the day you enter the country). For a tourist visa the stay is a maximum of 60 days.

Can I extend the length of my Chinese visa?

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3 thoughts on “chinese tourist visa (l visa) – the complete guide”.

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Hi there :) I am planning a bike travel to China. However, I plan to exit China via land border and therefore will not be able to provide a return flight ticket. Do you know how to handle that at the visa application? All the best!

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You can try to provide a train ticket, but it will depend on the embassy o CVASC if they accepted it or not. Notice that at the moment they are not emitting tourist visas (it seems that tomorrow they will start again), so the requirements could change.

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The information is well understood. Thou would like to help me with agency what it means

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How do I get a visa for China?

Marco Ferrarese

Oct 14, 2021 • 6 min read

BEIJING - OCT 18: people hike the Great Wall on October 18, 2015 in Beijing, China. The Ming dynasty walls measure 8,850 km in length, from China's East coast till the Gobi desert in the West.

The first step towards walking along the Great Wall is getting a visa for China © Hung Chung Chih / Shutterstock

Stretching from the steppes of Central Asia and Mongolia to the tropical jungles of Laos and Vietnam, China is a land of endless travel opportunities. Though the country shut up tight after the world’s first COVID-19 lockdown in Wuhan in January 2020, China is making fast progress towards its 85% vaccination target and international tourism is expected to resume by 2022.

Here is everything you need to know about obtaining a tourist visa for China, based on the requirements in place before the pandemic, which are likely to remain when China reopens to international tourists. Always check the latest regulations with the Chinese authorities before you travel.

Who Needs a Chinese Tourist Visa?

The majority of foreign nationals require a tourist visa (also known as an "L visa") to enter and visit mainland China, though a few nationalities are granted visa-free entry. L visas are easy to obtain from Chinese embassies and consulates around the world, though the visa application process in some countries has been outsourced to a local branch of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center – their website has a handy list of locations and other useful country-specific information. To avoid the tedious bureaucracy when applying in person, many people obtain a visa via a tour operator or visa agent.

Can I travel visa-free to China?

Holders of passports from a handful of countries can travel visa-free to mainland China for tourism or business purposes. Citizens of Brunei, Japan and Singapore get 15 days, citizens of the Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Ecuador, Fiji, Grenada, Qatar, Serbia, Seychelles, Tonga, and the United Arab Emirates get 30 days, citizens of Mauritius get 60 days, and citizens of Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and San Marino get 90 days.

Who can get a transit visa?

Visitors from 49 countries – including the US, Canada, UK, the EU, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil and Argentina – can spend up to 144 hours (6 days) transiting in China without a visa if they arrive by air, ship or train at selected Chinese cities. The list of cities includes Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xiamen, Wuhan, Kunming and Qingdao, opening up some interesting quick trip opportunities.   To be eligible, travelers must hold a passport valid for at least 3 months after entry and proof of onward travel to a third country, or to Hong Kong or Macau . These visas start counting down at 12.01 am on the date following arrival and there are restrictions on where you can travel within each region. Check with your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate for the current list of eligible nationalities, entry points and specific movement areas.

People walking on the Bund in Shanghai

What about Hong Kong and Macau?

Most nationalities do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days in either Hong Kong or Macau. British visitors to Hong Kong get 180 days, and South Africans get 30 days. To travel from here into China proper, a standard tourist visa is required. These are fairly easy to obtain via China Travel Service in Hong Kong.

Since May 2018, the Chinese resort island of Hainan has offered 30-day visa-free entry to citizens of 59 countries including the US, Canada, the EU, the UK, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore. You can’t leave Hainan island and travel to mainland China on this visa – if you want to roam deeper into China, you'll need a standard tourist visa.

How about Tibet?

To travel to Tibet by air, road or train, you'll need both a China tourist visa and a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit. To obtain this mandatory travel document you must book a guide for your entire trip and pre-arrange private transport for trips outside Lhasa. No direct applications are accepted, which effectively means that Tibet can only be visited on an organized tour.

How to apply for a Chinese tourist visa

By far the most straightforward option is to apply in your home country. If your country of residence is different, the Chinese authorities may charge an extra processing fee for non-citizens. Either way, you’ll need to fill out a form giving a proposed itinerary for your trip (it’s advisable to never mention Xinjiang and Tibet in your application), plus a flight ticket, and proof of accommodation booked for your first night in China.

Some embassies require extra documentation, such as an invitation letter from a person or a company in China, bank statements, and documents proving your employment record. And your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the expiry date of your visa. 

Remember that it can be hard to obtain a Chinese tourist visa from an embassy or consulate outside your home country. Caravanistan publishes a useful list of which Chinese embassies accept applications from third-country citizens.

Tourists viewing the head of the Le Shan Grand Buddha

How much does a China tourist visa cost?

The cost of a Chinese tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa, the length of stay, the number of entries allowed, and your nationality. Most tourists pay around US$35 for a single entry visa valid for 30 days from the day you enter China. Reflecting frosty relations between China and some foreign governments, UK citizens pay £151, US citizens pay US$140, Canadian citizens pay C$142, Australian citizens pay A$109 and French, German, Italian, Dutch and Spanish citizens pay €126.

Some nationalities are entitled to long-term multiple-entry visas that allow travelers to visit China for stints of 30 to 120 days throughout the duration of the visa. Note these are not residence permits and do not grant any right to live or work in China. Citizens of the US, Canada, Argentina and Israel can obtain tourist visas with a validity of up to ten years, Brazilians and South Africans are eligible for tourist visas valid for up to five years, while citizens of the UK can get tourist visas lasting two years. Contact your local Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest fees for long-term visas.

How long is a Chinese visa valid for?

Regular China tourist visas are valid for 30 days and must be used within three (or six, if double-entry) months of their date of issue. Never overstay your visa: the fine is ¥500 a day, with the possibility of being deported and banned from re-entering China for the next five years. If you think you'll need to stay longer, start the process of applying for a visa extension well before your visa expires.

Cyclist passing hills in Yangshuo, Guilin

Can I extend my Chinese visa?

Chinese visas can be extended once without too much difficulty at the Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices found in larger Chinese towns and cities, though an extension is not guaranteed. The process takes between 2 and 7 working days, the fee is ¥160 (or ¥760/500 for US/UK citizens). You can only extend your stay for as long as the duration of your original visa. You’ll need to provide your original passport, two photos and a receipt from your accommodation in the town where you are applying for your extension.

Because of the complicated permit system, extending your stay in Tibet is impossible, and Xinjiang, Beijing and Shanghai can also be tricky places to extend a standard tourist visa. The Caravanistan website has some useful visa extension reports from travelers. A second extension is harder to get, and a third extension is extremely unlikely.

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How to Get A Chinese Tourist Visa | Application Guide and Tips

Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China - Updated on January 24, 2024 :

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

2. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is now available for other 6 countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. China will be 15-day visa free for Ireland and Switzerland soon.

3. China will gradually phase out the appointment system for visa applications. As of now, nearly 100 Chinese embassies and consulates abroad have implemented the "walk-in" system, and it is expected that all Chinese embassies and consulates abroad will have implemented the "walk-in" system by the end of this year.

4. 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."

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

6. The 15-day visa-free entry policy for Singaporean citizens has been resumed.

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. Make the following adjustments to the visa and entry policies for foreigners entering China, effective from 00:00 March 15, 2023 Beijing time:

1). The entry function of visas which were issued before March 28, 2020 and still valid will be restored.

2). Overseas visa offices will resume issuing various types of visas (including Tourist Visa) for foreigners to travel to China, with specific requirements detailed in the visa application guidelines of Chinese embassies or consulates.

3). Port visa offices will resume issuing various types of port visas for lawful purposes.

4). The policies of visa-free entry for Hainan, Shanghai International cruise arrival, Guangdong for Tourist group entry of foreigners from Hong Kong, Macau, and ASEAN tourist groups entering Guilin, Guangxi will be restored.

9. Attention on China Group Visa on Arrival in Nepal: needs minimum 4 applicants, and no maximum limit. All applicants from one list must all come to the Visa Center for application.

10. 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

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Do I Need a Visa to Travel to China?

A China Tourist Visa (L Visa) is required for normal visit to mainland China. However, special visitors may travel to China without visa, such as, citizens of Singapore, Brunei and Japan could enjoy 15-day “no-visa” China tour, or transit passengers qualified for China’s 72 / 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit. Click Visa Free Policy of China to find out whether you need to get a visa for tour in China.

How Many Times can I Enter China on a Tourist Visa?

China Tourist Visa is divided into three kinds with different number of entries: single entry , double entries and multiple entries . That means you can enter China 1/2/many times during the validity of your China Visa. When applying, you should choose the intended number of entries based on the planed visit. Note that the visa will become invalid if entries have been used up, or the visa has expired.

China Tourist Visa

Our American Clients Enjoyed Beijing Tour

What are the Requirements for China Tourist Visa Application?

Chinese Tourist Visa is issued to aliens who plan to visit China for tour. Visitors can apply Chinese Visa from overseas countries, at entry port on arrival or in China . This article mainly offer guide at Chinese Embassy or Consulate abroad. Like all other visa categories, all applicants are required to prepare and submit necessary materials properly and truthfully. Read our step-by-step instruction to China Tourist Visa application below.

Basic Requirements

1. Passport

Original passport with a validity of at least 6 months, and at least one blank visa pages left. Also, make one copy of the data page & photo page, previous visa pages.

If you already use a new passport, a valid Chinese Tourist Visa is still in the old passport, you are allowed to use the two passport together to visit China if your purpose of visit remains the same.

2. China Visa Application Form

Log in the official website of COVA (https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn), choose the country and city you will submit application. Create an new China Visa Application Form online, fill in the electronic form step by step, provide all personal information completely and truthfully. After careful check, save and submit the application form. The form cannot be changed once it is submitted. Print the completed form out, sign and date it.

3. Visa Photo

Two recently-taken (within the past 6 months) front passport-size bareheaded color photos. The photos need to taken against a white or light solid background, hatless, frontal view presenting full face. One photo shall be attached on the printed visa application form. China Tourist Visa Photo Requirements, Size >>

Paper Photo Size: 33mm×48mm

Digital Photo Size: horizontal: 354 - 420 pixels, vertical: 472 - 560 pixels

4. Proof of Legal Stay or Residence (apply to outlander applicants)

Provide the original and photocopy of the valid certificate or visa, which shows your legal stay, residence, work and study in the residing country (not in your home country).

China Tourist Application Requirements

China Tourist Visa Application Requirements

China Tourist Visa Application Form

Fill in China Tourist Visa Application on Website of CVASC

5. Previous Chinese Passport or Chinese Visa (apply to former Chinese citizens who later joined to foreign nationality)

Submit the original passport and a copy of the passport’s date page, if it’s the first time you apply for a Chinese Visa.

If you once obtained Chinese Visa, and now apply a new one with a new passport, you please provide the photocopy of the previous passport’s date page, and the old Chinese Visa. (Official certificate of name change is needed, if the name on the current passport is not the same on the old passport.) 

Supporting Documents

Relavant travel documents showing the itinerary, including booked refundable round-trip air tickets and hotel reservation record, proposed travel schedules and else materials, or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. 

China Tourist Visa Invitation Letter

Invitation letter is one of the optional supporting documents for China Tourist Visa Application. To some extent, an Invitation Letter will help to explain your travel purpose, if you are indeed invited to visit China by friends, family or authorized travel agency. The letter should cover the following informations:

a. Information on the applicant (passport number, nationality, full name, gender, date of birth, etc.)

b. Information on the planned tour (departure and arrival dates, places going to be visited, etc.) 

c. Information on the inviting entity or individual (the host company name or inviter’s name, contact telephone number, address, official seal of the unit, signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual, and so on.)

Please visit Required & Supporting Documents for China Visa , if you apply for other type of China Visa, such as, China Business Visa, China Work Visa, etc.

China Tourist Visa Application Invitation Letter

China Tourist Visa Invitation Letter (Sample)

How Do I Apply for A Tourist Visa to China?

Once know what documents are needed, let’s move to the most important processes for submission.

STEP 1: Check passport status, make photocopy of data page, used visa pages;

Prepare others travel materials, e.g. flight tickets, hotel booking record, rough travel itinerary, etc. If you have an true and valid invitation letter, provide it as well.

STEP 2: Fill in visa application form , print it out, paste one photo on the paper application form, and sign and write down the submission date;

STEP 3: Make online appointment , if you’re required to submit to China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). Please use the application form ID to schedule appointment in advance.

Else applicants may visit visa section of overseas Chinese Embassy or Consulates during office hours. (you can check updated time on official website)

STEP 4: Bring all prepared documents, visit the right authority, CVASC or Chinese Embassy/Consulatem, wait for your order and submit. Pay visa fees and get a pick-up slip.

STEP 5: Collect passport and Chinese Visa (if granted successfully) back after tracing it has been processed and wait for pick up. With the slip, you may pick it up in person or entrust your friend, family, travel agency for help.

China Tourist Visa Application

China Visa Service Center in Malaysia

China Tourist Visa Application

Single-entry China Tourist Visa Issued in Vancouver, Canada (Old Version Used before June 1st 2019)

How Much is A Tourist L Visa for China?

China Tourist Visa Fees and cost differ by nationalities, number of entries and visa services, and where you submit.

* US Passport Holders: USD 140 for (Single/Double/Multiple) China Tourist Visa to 6 months, 1 year and above

* Canadian Passport Holders: CAD 100 for (Single/Double/Multiple) China Tourist Visa to 6 months, 1 year and above

* Single-entry Chinese Tourist Group Visa : CAD 40 for Canadians, USD 110 for US Citizens

China Visa Application Fees for Different Nationalities

Note of Payment: ① Embassy and Consulate only accept Master Card, Money Order, Cashier's Check or Company Check. Cash or Personal checks are not acceptable. ② China Visa Application Service Center just receives cash, debit cards, credit cards (Visa and Mater Card only) and company cheques. Know more details about China Vis Cost >>

How Long does It Take to Get A Tourist Visa to China?

Chinese Embassy and Consulate will start to process your application until all required documents submitted. Regular application takes about 4 working days , which you may pick up on the 4th or 5th working day. Express Service takes around 2-3 working days, that means, you may collect on the 3rd to 4th working day. Rush Service generally needs nearly 1 working day for processing, and applicants may obtain on the second working day. Same Day Rush Service for emergency entry is offered for applicants in US.

Useful Links: China Visa Processing Time | Fast China Visa Services

Special Notes:

1.) Express and Rush Service are not available in all foreign countries. If you want to use the services, please check on official website. If it’s valid, extra fees will be charged.

2.) If you apply for China Tourist Visa by mail in Australia, it takes at least 10 working days for processing, postal time is excluded.

3.) Visa processing time is listed for reference only, accurate time depends on personal situations. Chinese Embassy and Consulate may require supplementary materials if necessary.

China Tourist Visa

Canadian Picked up Passport & Visa from Chinese Embassy

FAQs and Useful Tips about Chinese Tourist Visa

Q1: Is it easy to get a Chinese Tourist Visa?

It’s hard to say it’s easy or not to get a Chinese Tourist Visa, because there is no guarantee of issurance of a Chinese Visa, under any circumstances. Our advice is that, prepare all needed documents as required for maxmium success.

Q2: Where should US citizens apply for a China Tourist Visa?

Holders of US passports should submit application to corresponding Chinese Embassy or Consulate which is in charge of your area. If you reside in Washington DC, Montana, North Carolina, Virginia, you shall apply at Chinese Embassy in Washington D.C., and if you live in New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, visit Consute in New York, more details in http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/zmzlljs/t84229.htm.

Q3: Does Singaporean need visa for travel to China?

According to relevant China’s laws and regulations, citizens from Singapore may enjoy 15-day visa-free entry to China if he go for business, tour or family visit.You will need a Chinese Visa with intention to overstay and travel for other purposes.

Q4: What’s the maximum stay of a China Tourist Visa?

The accurate length of permitted stay is clearly marked on the visa page of your passport, which is normally 30 days. That means holder can stay in China for up to 30 days. The time counts from the 00:00 the day after entry and till 24:00 of the last day . Please enter before the “Valid For Entry By”, otherwise it will be expired and null.

If you will stay in China more than regular 30 days, you’re suggested to make it clear on the application form, and shown in related travel itinerary.

Trave China with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion who offers high-value and worry-free tours for you. We not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also can provide any support & help you need to travel to China. With a Chinese Visa, you can freely travel to many cities in mainland China, among all, Beijing , Shanghai are used as gate way cities, Xian , Guilin , Chengdu are also excellent destinations to discovery different regional culture, history and local customs in China.

You may choose from our most popular China tours, or just  contact us , tell your interests and travel plans, we could customze a perfect China tour as you like.

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Introduction to China Visa

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China Visa Application

  • How to Apply for China Visa
  • Required Documents & Materials
  • China Visa Application Form
  • Visa Invitation Letter
  • China Visa Application Online
  • How Much is A China Visa
  • Apply China Visa in HK
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China Visa Exemptions

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3 Days Guangzhou History & Culture Experience Tour

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.

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  I.Visa Types and  Required Documents

  Annex 1  Important Tips for online COVA visa form filling

(1) Please carefully read the prompts and requirements of the COVA form system, and complete the entries of the visa application COVA online form step by step, making sure that the information is true, accurate and complete.  Please note: Once the application form has been submitted, it cannot be modified in any way.

(2) The " location " option  for submitting the visa application should be in line with the consular jurisdiction.

(3) Basic personal information. Surname, given names, gender, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport type, etc. must be exactly the same as those on the passport information page, otherwise your visa application will be returned.

(4) If you were born in China (including Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan), please note:

1. Application form 1.1E The native language name must be entered in Chinese with the Chinese character input method, please do not fill in "Chinese", "Chinese", etc.

2. In the application form 1.6G, select "Yes" for "former nationality", and then select the nationality information.

3. Item 1.6H of the application form is required. If the applicant is applying for a Chinese visa for the first time, this entry will be automatically generated during the form filling process; but if the applicant has previously applied for a Chinese visa, this entry will not be displayed when filling in the online form, and the form must be printed out and supplemented by hand-written Chinese name and other information. This Item cannot be empty.

(5) Completely fill in the work experience and educational background

1. Please fill in the complete work experience after graduation from school.

2. The “position” and “duty” of the application form 3.3D and 3.3E must be filled in completely.

3. Please fill in the complete learning experience since high school in 4.2, and the diploma/degree and major in 4.2C and 4.2D must be completed.

(6) Completely fill in each address

The address of the spouse in 5.5A of the application form, and the addresses of the parents in 5.5B and 5.5C must fill in the address of the current location, not the address of the place of birth. The address must be filled in completely, including street, city, state, and country.

(7) If you choose "not applicable" for any entry in the form, you need to state the reason for “not applicable”.

(8) Printing and signing. After completing the COVA online form filling, you must print out a full set of application forms, including the "Confirmation of Online Visa application" and "Visa Application Form of the People's Republic of China" (depending on the individual filling situation, a total of 9 to 10 pages will be generated). All the pages of the forms must be printed to turn in, the signature and date on the Confirmation Page and the 8th page of Visa Application Form of the People's Republic of China must be handwritten by the applicant him/herself. Visa applicant under the age of 18 is signed by their guardian, and meanwhile add a handwritten signature in the "For person filling in the application on the applicant’s behalf".

  Annex 2  Contents of S1, S2, Q1, Q2 Visa Invitation Letter

Inviter’s name XX, gender X, date of birth: XX, Chinese ID number XXX (or foreign passport number XX, Chinese permanent residence card number XX), current address in China is XX, contact phone number XX, email XX.

I hereby invite the following relatives to visit China for a short-term visit/long-term residence. He/She plans to go to China on XX, and stay in China for XX days.

Invitee information: name XX, gender X, date of birth XX, nationality XX, passport number XX, and the relative relationship with the inviter is XX.

Inviter's signature:        Date:

  Annex 3  Cont ents of M, F and L Visa Invitation Letter

(1) Personal information of the invitee: name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.

(2) Information about the invitee’s visit to China: reason for coming to China, date of arrival and departure, place of visit, relationship with the inviting unit or inviter, who will pay for the travel, etc.

(3) Inviting party inf ormation: inviting party na me, address, tel e phone number, official seal, legal representative or inviter’s signature, date, etc. (the information must be included in the text of the invitation letter)

II.Pr oc ess of V isa Appli cation

The  consular juri sdiction o f the  Chinese Consulate General in New York   includes :  New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island.  Please confirm that the applicant liv es in the above-mentioned states before submitting the visa application.

(1)Visa applicants   need to   log on   to   the website   “ China Online Visa Application (COVA) ”   to fill in the COVA   forms .

After completing the COVA forms as required, please   make sure to  print the full set of COVA forms (8-9 pages)  and  sign   on the Confirmation Page and the 8 th   page .   If the COVA forms   are   not prepared   as guided, the application will not be accepted.

(2)   In addition to the printed   and   signed   COVA forms, visa applicants also need to prepare the physical   Required Documents (include   "A.Basic Documents"   and   "B.General Documents")    to   submit   on-site   to   the   Visa   Office. If the physical documents   do not meet the requirements   or not sufficient, the application may be returned, and the applicant   may need to fill in the COVA forms   again .

(3) The physical application documents   can be submitted to the Visa Office by the visa applicant or by an agent . 

(4) Please check all the  information on the visa is correct when picking up. If there is any inaccuracy, please tell the staff immediate ly in case inconvenience brought by the incorrect information. Credit card (Master or Visa card only), money order or cashier's check are accepted for on-site pick-up. For visa processing time and fees, please  click here.  

III.  Addre ss and Contact Information of the Visa office

Address of the Visa Office   :

520 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10036

Office Hours: 9:00----15:00, Monday----Friday (Excluding Holidays)

Email address: [email protected]

Phone number:

212-868 2078

  • Chinese visa photo
  • China Tourist Visa in 2024 Guidelines: Visa Policy and Requirements

China Tourist Visa Guidelines

After a long period of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, China has finally announced the reopening of its borders to tourists. This decision has been long-awaited by travelers worldwide, many of whom have been eagerly anticipating the opportunity to explore China's rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

China Tourist Visa Guidelines

However, if you're planning a trip to China, one of the first things you'll need to consider is obtaining a tourist visa. China's visa application process can be complex and confusing, with different rules and requirements depending on your nationality and travel plans. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to China's tourist visa requirements and walk you through the steps of obtaining a travel permit to China.

Table of contents

"can i apply for a visa to china now" china tourist visa policy in 2023, is it possible to visit china without a visa, how to apply for a china tourist visa, documents required for a china tourist visa application, china visa photo requirements, get a china visa photo online, china tourist visa fees, china tourist visa processing time, china tourist visa validity.

Since March 2023, China has resumed issuing all types of visas for foreigners, including the tourism and medical treatment visa.

Foreigners who hold valid multi-year multiple entry visas for business or tourism purposes that were issued by Chinese visa authorities abroad before March 28, 2020, can use these visas to enter China.

The official name of the category of tourist visa to China is "L Visa".

In general, most foreign travelers to China require a visa to enter the country. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, and it's worth noting that China has implemented several visa-free policies for specific groups of travelers.

For example, citizens from certain countries, such as Singapore, Brunei, and Japan, can stay in China visa-free for up to 15 days if they are traveling for tourism or business purposes. Additionally, travelers to certain regions within China, such as Hainan Island, may be eligible for visa-free entry for a limited period.

Also, from December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024, China has granted visa-free entry for ordinary passport holders from six countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. Eligible travelers can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 15 days per entry. Additionally, China and Thailand have agreed to a permanent visa-free policy starting from March 2024, aimed at boosting tourism between the two countries

Furthermore, there are transit visa exemptions available for travelers who are transiting through certain Chinese airports for up to 144 hours, as long as they meet specific criteria.

Several visa-exemption policies in China are set to resume operation, allowing more foreign visitors to enjoy the country's many attractions. These include the visa-exemption policy for Hainan, the visa-exemption cruise policy for Shanghai, the visa-exemption policy for foreigners traveling to Guangdong from Hong Kong and Macao, and the visa-exemption policy for ASEAN tour groups to Guilin and Guangxi. With the resumption of these policies, more travelers will have the opportunity to explore the diverse cultural and natural wonders of China without the need for a visa.

Here are the steps to apply for a tourism (L) visa to China:

  • Gather the required documents;
  • Fill out the visa application form. You can fill out the visa application form online and print it out
  • Schedule an appointment: You must schedule an appointment with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your area. Make sure to check the embassy or consulate's website for specific instructions and requirements
  • Submit your application: At your appointment, you will need to submit your application and pay the visa fee;
  • Wait for processing;
  • Collect your visa: Once your visa is approved, you can collect your passport with the visa attached from the embassy or consulate.

The specific documents required for a China tourist visa (L Visa) application can vary depending on the country you are applying from and the embassy or consulate processing your application. However, in general, the following documents are commonly required:

  • Passport with remaining validity more than 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages. If you previously have had a multi-year multi-entry visa on the old passport, the old passport has to be submitted;
  • Visa application photo fulfilling requirements. The exact Chinese visa photo specifications are listed below;
  • Photocopy of the biodata page of the passport;
  • Visa application form (COVA): You will need to complete an online visa application form and print it out. You can download the COVA visa form here ;
  • Financial documents: You may be required to provide evidence of your financial ability to cover your trip, such as bank statements or proof of income.
  • Invitation letter: If you are visiting China as part of a group or have a sponsor in China, you may need to provide an invitation letter.
  • Previous visa: If you have previously traveled to China, you may need to provide your previous China visa and travel records.
  • Signed and filled-out form stating that the applicant is in the jurisdiction they’re applying in;
  • Proof of legal residence, if the applicant is a foreigner in the jurisdiction they’re applying in;
  • Travel itinerary: You will need to provide proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets, hotel reservations, and tour itineraries.

The photo used to apply for you Chinese visa must fulfill the following requirements:

  • It must be a color picture, taken recently within the last 6 months.
  • The Chinese visa photo size must be 48mm by height and 33mm by width, with width of head: 15mm to 22mm, height of head: 20mm to 33mm.
  • The applicant has to be easily identifiable from the photo;
  • Facial features should be complete and clearly visible, with the head centered in the photo;
  • Eyeglasses are allowed except thick-rimmed, tinted or glare glasses;
  • Hat or other head wears are only permitted due to religious reasons, but any facial features should not be obscured;
  • There should be no damages or impurities on the photo, no permeation or shadow over the face;
  • The photo should be in natural tone, but not over or under exposed, red-eyed or distorted;
  • Background should be in white or off-white, and with no edge frame
  • The photo should be printed on glossy finish photo paper, but not on matte finish paper or plain paper, and should be stainless, scratchless or without any crease.

Here is an example of a Chinese visa photo:

Chinese visa photo

Using Visafoto, an online photo editor that has been adjusting photographs for various documents worldwide since 2013, you can easily make a fully compliant Chinese visa application photo online. It will make sure your photo fulfills all the requirements needed.

Just take a picture of yourself following the guidelines stated above. Don’t worry about the size, background, positions, and proportions: Visafoto will handle the technicalities.

Take an image with a smartphone or camera against any background, upload it here, and instantly get a professional photo for your visa, passport, or ID.

Image Upload Error

Source photo example that you need to take in order to make a passport or visa photo at visafoto.com

First, take a photo under light like this one:

Photo original source

You will receive two versions of the photo: digital for electronic filing, and a printable template.

Example of a Chinese visa photo

Visafoto also provides you with a template ready for printing, so you do not need to worry about formatting your photo for this purpose. With a high-quality color printer and photo paper fitting requirements, you can print out a Chinese visa photo without leaving your home.

Chinese tourist visa costs usually vary based on the citizenship of the applicant and the jurisdiction they apply in. Make sure to check with your local consulate or embassy to know the exact requirements and fees.

In general, the prices for a single-entry L Visa range from around $30 to $140, while fees for a double-entry or multiple-entry L Visa can range from around $45 to $190. Additionally, expedited processing fees may apply if you require a faster turnaround time for your application.

If all the requirements are submitted correctly, it usually takes 4 business days for tourist visa applications to be processed. However, if you need to get a visa in advance for special reasons, additional fees will be charged, and the Chinese visa waiting time may be shorter.

China offers single, double, and multiple-entry visas with varying validity periods, which can range from as short as 3 months or 6 months to as long as 1 year or even 10 years.

In most cases, single-entry Chinese tourist visas are valid for three months from date of application.

To avoid the possibility of your visa expiring before your planned departure date, it is important to time your application appropriately. For instance, if you intend to enter China in September, it is recommended that you submit your application around August, taking into account working days only. This will help ensure that your visa is valid and in effect for your entire trip. The length of stay in China on a tourist visa usually does not exceed 30 days.

Citizens from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Argentina are eligible for a 10-year multiple-entry Chinese visa.

Last update: January 2024

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10-year China Visa for US and Canadian Citizens

What is the 10-year china visa.

The 10-year China visa allows holders to enter China for multiple times during the validity of up to 10 years without the trouble of applying for visa again and again. Can I get a 10-year Chinese visa? You may ask. Well, currently, the multiple entry Chinese visa for 10 years is applicable to citizens from US, Canada, UK, Argentina and Brazil. The 10 years Chinese visa for Australians is on the way according to some reports, but yet not sure when to happen. Below is some information on the 10-year China visa for US and Canadian citizens. British citizens can click to browse the page of 10-year China Visa for UK Citizens .  

How long can I stay in China on a China ten-year visa?

10-year china visa fee for us and canadian citizens.

The 10 years China visa is not expensive than short-term Chinese visa despite its longer validity. A 10-year China visa for US citizens costs 140 US dollars. The 10-year Chinese visa fees for Canadian citizens is 110 Canadian dollars. However, due to the fact that Canadians have to handle it at Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC), they need to pay additional service fee to the center.  

10-year China Visa Requirements & Documents

chinese tourist visa length

2. A valid passport is required. For US citizens, the remaining validity should be at least one year. For Canadian citizens, the remaining validity should be longer than the expected length of visa. 3. Documents to support your entry purpose. For example, if you apply for a tourist visa, you may need to provide round trip air tickets and hotel booking records for the first entry or an invitation letter from your friends or family members in China.  

How to apply for a 10-year Visa to China

After all the documents are ready, make an appoinment for the visa application submission  for the Chinese consular office in charge of your residence address. For Canadian citizens, they need to go to the CVASC. After successful submission, just wait for the result for about four working days and collect your passport and visa on the date shown on your pick-up slip.  

Further Reading:

10-year china visa for argentine citizens.

In Argentina, the 10-year Chinese visa is only for Tourist (L) and Business (M) purposes, with the price being 2,470 pesos. The passport should be valid for at least six months when submitting the application. The max. stay length is 90 days after each entry.

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chinese tourist visa length

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Validity Validity of a visa refers to the period that the visa holder is allowed to enter China. Unless otherwise specified, a visa holder may enter China at any time prior to expiry of validity (right up to midnight Beijing Time on the final day of validity), so long as the entries granted on the visa have not been used up. 

A visa becomes effective from the date of issuance. The visa automatically becomes invalid once its period of validity expires regardless of whether its entries are used up or not.

Chinese embassies and consulates general do not extend the validity of an issued visa. A fresh application is needed after the expiry of the issued visa. Foreigners holding an expired visa seeking entry will be refused. Make sure the visa is valid before you set off for China. However, even if a foreigner holds a valid visa, he or she might be refused entry by the immigration authorities.

Q: I hold a double entry visa valid until June 20 and the first entry occurs on June 12. Can I come to China again for the second entry on June 25?

A: No, you will be refused to enter China as the visa had expired before the attempt to use the second entry. 

Number of Entries of a Visa The number of entries of a visa refers to the number of times the visa holder is permitted to enter China within the visa’s validity. When the entries are all used up, the visa is no longer valid. Even if there are still unused entries, the visa is not valid either if its validity has already expired. In either case, the visa holder should apply for a new visa if another visit to China is planned. An applicant will be refused entry to China if all the visa entries have been used up.

Q: I hold a double-entry visa valid from March 20 to June 20, and have entered China twice before May 20. Can I continue to use this visa again before June 20?

A: No,you have used all the entries permitted by the visa.

Duration of Stay Duration of stay of a visa refers to the longest period the visa holder is allowed to stay in China from the day following entry to China on each visit.

Q: I hold a single-entry visa with duration of stay of 30 days, and enter China on June 12. When is the last day I can stay in China lawfully permitted by the visa?

A: The last day is July 12 as the duration of stay is counted from June 13, the day after entry.

Q: I hold a single-entry visa for a stay up to 30 days and validity until June 12. If I enter China on June 12, the last day of validity, can I stay in China for 30 days thereafter? 

After entry into China, a foreign citizen who needs to stay in China longer than the duration of stay permitted by the visa must apply for an extension of stay at a local public security bureau before the original permitted period of stay expires. This does not necessarily mean your application for an extension will be approved. The applicant shall bear any consequences arising from this situation.

Overstay in China violates the country’s laws and regulations on control of the entry and exit of foreigners, and could result in a fine or other penalty.  

chinese tourist visa length

Business Hours:(Monday - Friday) Visa application: 9:00-15:00 Payment and collection 9:00-16:00 NOTICE:Our visa counter will accept rush service(2nd-working-day collection) application until 14:00.

Location:80 Robinson Road, #16-01/02/02A, Singapore 068898 Call:65-67139380  Fax:65-62260852    Email: [email protected]

chinese tourist visa length

1. Visa Types

2. Basic Documents

1) Visa Application Form  and Confirmation Form of Online Visa Application .  Complete China Visa Application Form through China Online Visa Application website ( https://cova.mfa.gov.cn ). For underage applicants, the forms can be filled by parents on behalf of the children.

2)  Passport . Original passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages, and a photocopy of bio-data page of the passport.

3)  Photo . Must be a recent coloured ID photo, facing forward and with white coloured background, and bareheaded.

4)  Proof of legal stay or residence status  (applicable to non-Samoa passport holders applying for Chinese visa in Samoa).

5)  Original  and  photocopy of previous Chinese passport   and photocopy of naturalization certificate   (applicable to applicant who was of Chinese nationality and this is the first time to apply for Chinese visa after naturalization in a foreign country). If the name on the current passport differs from that on the previous one, an official document of name change is required.

6) For children born in Samoa with Samoa Citizenship and Chinese descent applying for Chinese visa for the first time, applicants shall also submit the original and photocopy of birth certificate, the photocopy of parents’ passports and permanent residence permits.

※Paper copies of all application documents should be submitted to the Chinese Embassy in Samoa.

3. Supporting Documents Based on Visa Category and Purposes of Travel

A letter of guarantee issued by a foreign transport company or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity in China.

The original and photocopy of the Confirmation Form for Foreigners Permanent Residence Status issued by the Ministry of Public Security of China.

An invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. The invitation should contain:

1) Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2) Information on the planned visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, financial source for expenditures).

3) Information on the inviting entity or individual (name, contact telephone number, address, official stamp, a signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual).

An onward air (train or ship) ticket with confirmed date to the destination country or region.

J1 /J2 -Visa  should refer to the requirements of the competent authority.

Documents showing the itinerary including air ticket booking record (round trip) and proof of a hotel reservation, etc. or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. For invitation letters issued by individual, photocopies of Chinese ID (front and back) of the inviting person must be included. The invitation letter should contain:

2) Information on the planned visit (arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, etc.).

Documents on the commercial activity issued by a trade partner in China, or trade fair invitation or other invitation letters issued by a relevant entity. The invitation letter should contain:

2) Information on the planned visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity, financial source for expenditures).

For family reunion, the following documents are required:

(1) An invitation letter issued by a Chinese citizen or a foreign citizen with Chinese permanent residence permit who lives in China. The invitation letter should contain:

1)Information of the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, intended arrival date, place(s) of intended residence, intended duration of residence, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address,  a signature of the inviting individual, etc.).

(2) Photocopies of both sides of Chinese ID of the inviting individual or foreign passport and permanent residence permit.

(3) Original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of family members between the applicant and inviting individual.

"Family members" refers to spouses, parents, parents-in-law, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons and granddaughters.

For foster care, the following documents are required:

(1) Foster entrustment notarisation issued by Chinese Embassies/Consulates General in foreign countries or Foster Care Power of Attorney notarized and authenticated in the country of residence or in China.

(2) Original and photocopy of the consignor's passport(s), as well as the original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship between parents or guardians and children.

(3) A letter of consent on foster care issued by the trustee living in China who has agreed to provide foster care services and a photocopy of the ID of the trustee.

(4) A photocopy of the certificate indicating the permanent residence status abroad of the parent(s) when the child was born, provided that either or both parents of the child are Chinese citizens.

(1) An invitation letter issued by a Chinese citizen or a foreign citizen with a Chinese permanent residence permit who lives in China. The invitation letter should contain:

1)Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact number, address, signature etc.).

(2) Photocopies of both sides of Chinese ID or foreign passport and permanent residence permit of the inviting individual.

A photocopy of Confirmation Letter for High Level Foreign Talents.

(1) An invitation letter from the inviting individual (a foreigner who stays or resides in China for work or studies) which contains:

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, intended arrival date, place(s) of intended residence, intended duration of residence, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures, etc.).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address, signature, etc.).

(2) A photocopy of the inviting individual's passport and residence permit

(3) Original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of immediate family members between applicants and inviting individual.

"Immediate family members" refers to spouses, parents, sons or daughters under the age of 18 and parents-in-law.

For visiting family members for a short period , the following documents are required:

(1) An invitation letter from the inviting individual (a foreigner who stays or resides in China for work or studies) which contains:

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures, etc.).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address, signature, etc.)

(2) A photocopy of the inviting individual's passport and residence permit.

(3) Photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of family members between the applicant and the inviting individual.

"Family members" refers to spouses, parents, parents-in-law, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters.

For private affairs, documentation identifying the nature of the private affairs  should be provided as required by the consular officer.

1) Original and photocopy of the Admission Letter issued by a school or other entities in China.

2) Original and photocopy of "Visa Application for Study in China" (Form JW201 or Form JW202).

Original and photocopy of Admission Notice issued by a school or other entities in China.

Notice for the Work Permit for Foreigners

4 . Special Reminder

(1) The invitation letter may be in the form of fax, photocopy or computer printout, but the consular officer may require the applicant to submit the original of the invitation letter.

(2) If necessary, the consular officer may require the applicant to provide other proof documents or supplementary materials, or require an interview with the applicant.

(3) The consular officer will decide on whether or not to issue the visa and on its validity, duration of stay and number of entries in light of specific conditions of the applicant.

How to Extend Your China Visa

How to Extend Your China Visa

Can i extend my visa in china.

Chinese embassies and consulates general do not extend the validity of an issued visa. If you already entered China and you want to spend more time in China, you can extend your visa within China.

Extending a Chinese visa is usually not so difficult, although prices, waiting times, and rules differ from region to region.

You are advised not to overstay the duration of your visa or fail to apply for an extension before your visa expires as you risk being heavily fined and have your travel plans disrupted.

When to apply for a China visa extension?

The visa extension application should be submitted at least 7 days before the expiration date of the visa.

If you apply too late, you may overstay and are subject to a fine and possible deportation.

Once your visa is extended, the new dates start from the day you receive your new visa – NOT from the day your old visa was going to end.

Where to extend my China visa?

You must go to the Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration office, situated in all larger towns and cities of China. In normal cases, you should submit the application in person.

In case, the staff cannot speak English, you are recommended to take a Chinese friend with you if you can.

What are the required documents?

Visitors who want their visa to be extended should provide the following evidential materials

  • Valid passport and your current visa
  • a passport sized photo
  • A completed application form for visa extension
  • Reason for the extension along with relevant supporting documents, such as, for Tourist (L) Visa, individuals should submit travel plan and itinerary, group tourists needs extra certificate and proof of the travel agency; for Business (M) Visa, certification letter provided by the local host organization/individual is necessary; for Family (Q2) Visa, the invitation letter, ID certification and proof of family membership is needed; for Short-term Student (X2) Visa, you need to submit studying certificate provided by Chinese educational or training institutions.

How long can I extend my China visa?

The length of the extension depends on the type of visa and multiple entry visas cannot be extended.

Normally the extension of your stay can not exceed your current visa stay period.

You can extend your visa once or twice. This depends on the duration of your original visa. Your total extensions on any one entry to China cannot exceed the length of your original permitted stay. If you have a 30-day visa, you can extend for a maximum of another 30 days. If you have a 60-day visa, you can extend a second time.

How much does it cost to extend a China visa?

The price is 160 yuan for nationals of most countries. For some countries, the price may differ. US citizens need to pay 760 yuan for an extension while UK citizens need 469 yuan.

How long is the processing time?

Usually, the PSB will decide whether to grant the visa extension within 7 working days, upon the acceptance of all application documents.

What happens if you overstay your visa in China?

If you have overstayed your visa, there are different levels of punishment based on the length of overstay, from penalty 500 RMB per day to detention for a period of 5 to 15 days.

With that laid out, if you are indeed in an overstaying situation then you should report to the local police station as soon as possible, pay the penalty, and then apply for an exit permit in order to be able to leave the country.

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Text: A A A Print ECNS Wire

  • China, Thailand enter 'visa-free' era from March 1

By Lin Zhuowei

(ECNS) — China and Thailand permanently exempted visa requirements for each other's citizens on March 1, right after a temporary visa waiver for Chinese visitors that commenced last September expired on Feb. 29.

The new deal is expected to facilitate tourism and economic recovery in both countries.

Under the new arrangement, Chinese passport holders are granted visa-free travel and a maximum stay of 30 days per entry in Thailand and vice versa. A total of 90 days stay is allowed in case of multiple entries within 180 days.

A booster for tourism and economic recovery

Thailand's promotion of a visa-free policy is regarded as a way to lift the tourism industry and national economy by enticing more Chinese travelers.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, China was a leading contributor to Thailand's tourism sector, which is a key factor in the growth of Southeast Asia's second-largest economy. However, the comeback of Chinese tourists to Thailand has been slow.

In 2019, visitors from China constituted over 25 percent of the total 40 million foreign arrivals. However, in the past year, they comprised only 3.5 million of the 28 million tourists, which fell short of the 4-million target set by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, making it only the second largest group of foreign visitors after Malaysians.

In 2024, the tourism authority has set the target for Chinese tourists at 8.2 million, with expectations running high on the visa-free policy.

"This will not only boost Thailand's tourism industry but also signify further improvement in the friendly relations between the two countries," Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin anticipated at a press conference after a cabinet meeting.

A driver of people-to-people exchanges

Chinese spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Wang Wenbin foresees a significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand. "This visa-free era will bring people-to-people exchanges to a new height," Wang added.

"No need for a visa. No fee is charged. All you need is a plane ticket. It is as easy as an inbound travel to Sanya," a Chinese netizen shared her excitement in a post on China's lifestyle-sharing social media platform Xiaohongshu.

Hearing news of the continuation of the visa waiver policy, an avid traveler surnamed Xu from Beijing told ecns.cn that she plans to move up her schedule to visit Thailand.

Despite Chinese sightseers' enthusiasm, industrial experts advise cautious optimism.

"Visitors from China are highly likely to grow in numbers, but the appeal of the visa-free policy could be diluted by other countries that have announced similar policies, including Singapore and Malaysia," said Zhao Jun, founder of Lanmao Travel, a leading self-guided tour company focused on the Southeast Asian market.

"Visa-free policy for Chinese tourists is the way to go in Southeast Asia," Zhao added. With more mutual visa-free policies being reached between China and countries in the region, analysts pointed out that China will open its gate wider and there will be more cultural exchanges.  

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Thailand expands visa-free access for tourists from China and Kazakhstan

Passport holders from both countries will be able to enter and stay in thailand for up to 30 days without visas..

Photo of TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 1 March 2024 – The Royal Thai Government has extended visa-free access for tourists from China and Kazakhstan, effective from today onwards.

Thailand-China mutual visa exemption

Thailand and China signed an agreement for a mutual visa entry for citizens of both countries on 28 January 2024, which officially comes into effect today.

The agreement exempts holders of valid Thai ordinary passports and valid Chinese passports for public affairs and ordinary passports from visa requirement for entering, exiting, or transiting the other country’s territory for a 30-day stay. Cumulative stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

This is except for those with the purposes of residing or engaging in employment, study, media activities or other activities that require prior approval from competent authorities of the other country.

Thailand previously granted temporary visa exemption for Chinese tourists from 25 September 2023 to 29 February 2024.

China is one of Thailand’s largest markets. In 2023, the number of Chinese arrivals in Thailand reached 3.5 million, making it the second largest market after Malaysia and before South Korea, India, and Russia. From 1 January to 26 February 2024, Thailand welcomed 1.12 million Chinese arrivals.

Extended visa exemption for Kazakhstani tourists

The previous temporary visa exemption scheme for Kazakhstani tourists, which started on 25 September 2023, ended on 29 February 2024.

Given the significant increase in the number of Kazakhstani tourists to Thailand, the Thai cabinet has approved an extension of the temporary visa exemption for visitors from Kazakhstan until 31 August 2024.

They will be granted a temporary visa exemption for a 30-day stay on tourism purpose.

Kazakhstan is one of Thailand’s fastest growing markets and is the second largest market in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), after Russia.

In 2023, Thailand recorded 172,489 visitors from Kazakhstan, representing a 190% growth over 2022. From 1 January to 26 February 2024, the number increased 11% over the same period in 2023 to 55,566 arrivals.

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TAT Newsroom

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IMAGES

  1. How to apply for a Chinese tourist visa

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  2. 5 Things You Need to Know About China's Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

    chinese tourist visa length

  3. us travel to china visa requirements Complete guide to china travel

    chinese tourist visa length

  4. A Quick Guide to Chinese Tourist Visas

    chinese tourist visa length

  5. How to Get a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)

    chinese tourist visa length

  6. visa china double entry

    chinese tourist visa length

COMMENTS

  1. China Visa Entries / Validity / Duration of Stay

    The granted duration of stay ranges from 7 to 180 days. For transit visas, the duration of stay is 7 to 10 days. For a regular single-entry tourist visa, it's often 30 days. The longest durations of stay for X2, S2, Q2, and J2 visas are 180 days. If you receive Z, Q1, S1, J1, or X1 visas, you may find that the stay duration shown on your visa ...

  2. China Visa Information

    A Sample of Chinese Tourist (F) Visa (New Version Used Since June 1, 2019) 1. Category (签证种类) - Chinese Visa Types ... It doesn't mean the bearer can't stay in China or they can stay in China without limitation of length of duration. They are required to apply a residence permit in the local Public Security Bureau within 30 days ...

  3. Chinese Visa Application Frequently Asked Questions

    Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America 3505 International Place, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 U.S.A. Tel: +1-202-495-2266

  4. A Quick Guide to Chinese Tourist Visas

    China usually issues three types of tourist visa: single-entry (valid for 3-6 months), double-entry (valid for 6 months), and multiple-entry (valid for 6 or 12 months). Single-entry tourist visas usually grant a maximum stay of 30 days, but you can ask for up to 90 days. The number of days you receive partly depends on the passport you hold.

  5. Requirements and Procedures for Chinese Visa Application(Updated in

    Starting from January 1, 2024, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in the United States simplify application documents required for tourist visa (L-visa). Tourist visa applicants within the United States will no longer be required to submit round-trip air ticket booking record, proof of hotel reservation, itinerary or invitation letter.

  6. Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)

    Online Visa for China; Tourist Visa; Business Visa; Student Visa; Other Chinese Visa; Live in China Menu Toggle. Health Insurance for Expats in China; ... Can I extend the length of my Chinese visa? Effective March 15, 2023, China will resume issuing all types of visas, including tourist L visas. Travelers may be required to provide a negative ...

  7. How to Apply for a China Visa

    Choose a visa type that applies to your situation. If you are planning to go on a vacation in China, apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa). 3. Prepare the required documents. The following list of documents are required for any China visa application: A valid passport.

  8. Visa Application_Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the

    · Requirements and Procedures for Chinese Visa Application(Updated in February, 2024)(2023-03-14) · Tourist Visa (L-Visa) Application Documents to be Simplified(2023-12-29) · 2024 Holiday Schedule for the Visa Office of the Chinese Embassy(2023-12-26) · Visa Office Close on Dec. 25, 2023 and Jan. 1,2024(2023-12-18)

  9. Visa requirements for visiting China

    The cost of a Chinese tourist visa varies depending on the type of visa, the length of stay, the number of entries allowed, and your nationality. Most tourists pay around US$35 for a single entry visa valid for 30 days from the day you enter China. Reflecting frosty relations between China and some foreign governments, UK citizens pay £151, US ...

  10. China Tourist Visa

    Unless you come from countries that meet China's visa-free conditions, you are required to apply for a China tourist visa to enter China for tourism purposes. You can apply for a China tourist visa if: You hold a passport from an eligible country. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.

  11. How to Get a China Tourist Visa, China Travel Visa

    Step 1: Prepare All the Necessary Documents. As with any type of Chinese visa, there are specific documents that need to be handed over during application. As the Tourist Visa is probably the easiest to apply for, there are only a few requirements: A valid passport with at least 6 months left, and at least one empty visa-page left.

  12. How to Apply for China Tourist Visa

    Fill in China Tourist Visa Application on Website of CVASC. 5. Previous Chinese Passport or Chinese Visa (apply to former Chinese citizens who later joined to foreign nationality) Submit the original passport and a copy of the passport's date page, if it's the first time you apply for a Chinese Visa.

  13. Requirements and Procedures for Chinese Visa Application(Updated in

    Starting from January 1, 2024, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in the United States simplify application documents required for tourist visa (L-visa). Tourist visa applicants within the United States will no longer be required to submit round-trip air ticket booking record, proof of hotel reservation, itinerary or invitation letter.

  14. China Visa FAQs: How Much, How Long to Wait, Where to Apply

    During the stay, they can travel in the whole of Hainan Province without a Chinese visa. This visa-free access will count its 30 days duration from 00:00 the day following the entry date. Hainan Visa-Free Countries List - 59 Countries. 6 American Countries: the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.

  15. Visa policy of mainland China

    e. Visitors to the mainland of the People's Republic of China must obtain a visa from one of the Chinese diplomatic missions unless they are citizens of one of the visa-exempt countries. The residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan with Chinese nationality may stay in Mainland indefinitely as long as their travel documents are valid.

  16. China Visa: Types, Requirements, Application & Guidelines

    The type of visa you should apply for depends on your reasons for traveling. Read about the types of China visa to know: 12 main types of China visa: tourist visa, work visa, business visa, etc. Single-, double-, and multiple- entry visas. The 10-year China visa.

  17. China Tourist Visa Guidelines

    The length of stay in China on a tourist visa usually does not exceed 30 days. Citizens from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Argentina are eligible for a 10-year multiple-entry Chinese visa. Last update: January 2024. Install Visafoto (7ID app) on your phone!

  18. 10-year China Visa for US and Canadian Citizens

    10-year China Visa Categories Maximum Stay Length per Entry; Tourist (L) 60 days: Business (M) 60 days: Family Reunion (Q2) 90 days: Private Visit (S2) 120 days . ... In Argentina, the 10-year Chinese visa is only for Tourist (L) and Business (M) purposes, with the price being 2,470 pesos. The passport should be valid for at least six months ...

  19. How to understand the validity, number of entries and duration of stay

    Number of Entries of a Visa. The number of entries of a visa refers to the number of times the visa holder is permitted to enter China within the visa's validity. When the entries are all used up, the visa is no longer valid. Even if there are still unused entries, the visa is not valid either if its validity has already expired.

  20. Requirements for Chinese Visa Application (Updated in April, 2023)

    1) Original and photocopy of the Admission Letter issued by a school or other entities in China. 2) Original and photocopy of "Visa Application for Study in China" (Form JW201 or Form JW202). X2-Visa. Original and photocopy of Admission Notice issued by a school or other entities in China. Z-Visa.

  21. China Visa Extension: How, Where, and When

    You can extend your visa once or twice. This depends on the duration of your original visa. Your total extensions on any one entry to China cannot exceed the length of your original permitted stay. If you have a 30-day visa, you can extend for a maximum of another 30 days. If you have a 60-day visa, you can extend a second time.

  22. China, Thailand enter 'visa-free' era from March 1

    Under the new arrangement, Chinese passport holders are granted visa-free travel and a maximum stay of 30 days per entry in Thailand and vice versa. A total of 90 days stay is allowed in case of ...

  23. Political advisor suggests China to expand the scope of visa-free, visa

    Zheng said that in 2024, China should expand its scope of visa-free and visa-on-arrival countries, and extend the Hainan experience to more cities nationwide, in order to create a higher level of ...

  24. Thailand expands visa-free access for tourists from China and

    Bangkok, 1 March 2024 - The Royal Thai Government has extended visa-free access for tourists from China and Kazakhstan, effective from today onwards.. Thailand-China mutual visa exemption. Thailand and China signed an agreement for a mutual visa entry for citizens of both countries on 28 January 2024, which officially comes into effect today.