Foreigners intending to enter China must apply for a visa, except where a visa exemption agreement is in place or China grants a visa exemption. In general, the China visa issuers are Chinese embassies, consulates and Chinese Visa Application Service Centers.

Application documents:

Applicants should check which type of visa is needed in accordance with the travel purpose and prepare the required documents.

Basic documents include a passport, visa application and photo and proof of legal stay or residence status if the application is not made in one’s country of citizenship. To learn of other specific supporting documents, please refer to the introduction to visas.

Application fees:

The application fees depend on various factors, including the applicants’ nationality, the country where the application is made and how many entries will be needed for the visa. An extra fee will be charged for mail service. Please consult the Chinese embassy or consulate that accepts the application for more information.

When to apply?

According to the Department of Consular Affairs of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it is recommended to apply one month before the planned entry to China. Applicants can also consult the embassy or consulate by scheduling an appointment.

Note: The guidance is for reference only. Please check the detailed information with the Chinese embassy or consulate that accepts the application.