TL;DR
Most travelers need an L (tourist) visa to enter mainland China. Some nationalities qualify for visa-free transit (144 hours) or visa-free entry. Check your eligibility before applying.
Do You Need a Visa?
You need a visa unless you fall into one of these categories:
- 30-day visa-free entry: Citizens of 50 countries including most European nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and others can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Valid through December 31, 2026.
- 144-hour visa-free transit: Available in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, and other major cities. Must arrive from and depart to different countries.
- Hainan visa-free: 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan Island for citizens of 59 countries.
- Mutual visa exemption: Citizens of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Maldives, Kazakhstan, UAE, Serbia, and 22 other countries can enter visa-free under mutual agreements.
Transit Rules Are Strict
For 144-hour transit, you must fly into China from Country A and depart to Country B (A and B must be different). A round-trip through China does not qualify.
L (Tourist) Visa Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport validity | 6+ months beyond entry date; 2+ blank pages |
| Application form | Complete online at visaforchina.cn, print and sign |
| Photo | One recent color passport photo (48x33mm, white background) |
| Flight itinerary | Round-trip flight booking confirmation |
| Hotel bookings | Confirmed accommodation for entire stay |
| Processing time | 4-7 working days; express 2-3 days (extra fee) |
| Fee | Varies by nationality and entry type (check visaforchina.cn for current rates) |
How to Apply (Step by Step)
1
Fill the Online Application
Go to visaforchina.cn and complete the COVA (China Online Visa Application) form. Save the application ID — you will need it for your appointment.
2
Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) nearest to you. Walk-ins are generally not accepted.
3
Prepare Documents
Print your completed form, bring your passport, photo, flight bookings, and hotel confirmations. Bring originals and photocopies.
4
Attend Your Appointment
Submit documents, pay the fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints). Keep your receipt — it has your collection date.
5
Collect Your Visa
Return on the collection date with your receipt. Check the visa sticker immediately for errors (name, passport number, dates).
Pro Tip
Apply at least 1 month before travel. During peak seasons (Chinese New Year, summer), processing can take longer. Some centers offer mail-back service for an extra fee.
Visa Types Explained
| Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| L (Tourist) | Sightseeing, visiting friends/family | Single/double/multiple entry, 30-90 days per stay |
| M (Business) | Business meetings, trade fairs | Single or multiple entry, 30-180 days |
| F (Exchange) | Non-commercial exchanges, study tours | Single or double entry, up to 180 days |
| X (Student) | Long-term study (6+ months) | Single entry, convert to residence permit after arrival |
| Z (Work) | Employment | Single entry, convert to residence permit |
Common Rejection Reasons
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- Incomplete or incorrect application form
- Missing hotel bookings or flight itinerary
- Photo does not meet specifications
- Previous visa violations or overstays
- Applying for wrong visa type for stated purpose
Important
If your visa application is rejected, the fee is not refunded. Double-check all documents before submitting. When in doubt, consult a visa agent.
After You Get Your Visa
- Verify your name, passport number, and dates of validity match your passport
- Note the number of entries (single/double/multiple) — overstaying is a serious offense
- Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically)
- Keep a photocopy of your visa page separate from your passport