Based on Official NIA Data

Check Your China Visa Requirements

Simplify your entry into China. Check visa-free policies, transit options, and application requirements in seconds.

Visa-Free Policy Overview

Updated: Nov 2025
🌍

Unilateral Visa-Free (43 Countries)

France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, etc. for business, tourism, family visit, or transit. No pre-declaration required.

Up to 30 Days
✈️

240-Hour Transit (10 Days)

55 countries including USA, UK, Canada, Russia. Entry via 65 ports in 24 provinces with cross-province travel permitted.

10 Days (240 Hours)
🛂

24-Hour Port Transit

All countries with confirmed connecting tickets. Stay within port area or apply for a temporary entry permit to leave.

24 Hours

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa

Complete guide to applying for your China visa based on official procedures

📋 Application Procedures

1
Identify Visa Type

Determine the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of visit

2
Prepare Documents

Gather general requirements and specific supporting materials for your visa type

3
Submit Application

Apply at Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or designated CVASC in your jurisdiction

4
Interview if Required

Be prepared for potential interview or additional document requests

5
Collect Visa

Once processed, collect your visa and pay necessary fees

📄 Required Documents

General Requirements (All Visa Types)
Valid Passport

At least 6 months validity + blank visa pages, plus photocopy of data page

Application Form & Photo

Completed "Visa Application Form of the PRC" with recent color passport photo

🏛️ Where to Apply

Chinese Embassy/Consulate

Submit to the mission with jurisdiction over your residence

Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC)

Available in many countries for convenient processing

⏱️ Processing Times

Standard Processing

Regular service

4
business days
Express/Rush

Additional fee applies

Available

Check your local embassy/consulate website for specific processing times

⚠️ Important Notes

Invitation Letters

Photocopies or scans usually accepted, but originals may be requested by consular officer

Consular Authority

Visa approval, validity, duration, and entries are at consular officer's discretion

Stay Duration

Calculated from the day following your entry date into China

Residence Permit

D, J1, Q1, S1, X1 visa holders must apply for residence permit within 30 days of entry

Ready to Apply?

Most visa applications must now be submitted through the official online system (COVA).

Official portal by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the P.R.C.

Frequently Asked Questions