China launches online visa application system in the US as part of global rollout.

Sep 29, 2025

China is expanding its digital visa infrastructure with the launch of the China Online Visa Application (COVA) system in the United States. The phased rollout begins on September 30, 2025, at Chinese consulates in all jurisdictions. As the program rolls out across the US, it’s important for applicants to pay attention to processing times, as they’re likely to change. One thing that’s not changing—CIBTvisas will continue to manage the entire process of applying for a China visa on behalf of our clients.

This development aligns with China's global strategy to streamline visa processing. The COVA system is already in use in 159 countries, including Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many EU countries.

A new application journey.

The cornerstone of the new system is online pre-review functionality. Visa forms will now be completed online, and supporting documentation will be uploaded for preliminary review. This pre-screening step introduces real-time progress updates and allows users to modify forms without re-entering all their information.

How it works.

The process of applying for a China visa with CIBTvisas remains simple and straightforward:

• The traveler provides the necessary information and documentation online via the CIBTvisas website.
• CIBTvisas reviews these materials and provides guidance if additional information is required.
• CIBTvisas submits your documentation digitally and securely to the issuing authority.
• Once the online submission has been approved, we inform clients on when to send hard-copy materials to us. Consulates still require original documents for submission by CIBTvisas on the clients’ behalf, including passports.
• We return your passport, complete with your new visa, directly to you.

Other things applicants need to know.

Online pre-approval does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. The consulate will conduct a full document review and may request additional materials or schedule an interview.

Importantly, this new platform only affects the document submission process. It does not replace paper visas with electronic visas (eVisas). Once the visa is approved, it will be placed in your passport as per normal procedure.

While the platform promises a faster, more efficient visa experience, the consulates have noted that minor delays or adjustments may occur during the initial rollout. CIBTvisas continues to work closely with applicants and partners to ensure a smooth transition and will provide updates as new information becomes available.

This update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to CIBTvisas for any case- or company-specific assessments.

Read next: CIBT appoints John O’Connell as Chief Operating Officer.

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