Step 1 - Get a China Visa

Critical travel updates you need to know

  • As of March 15, 2023, the Chinese government announced it will once again be issuing tourist visas for leisure travel to China.
  • The government of China announced that starting Monday, January 9, 2023, foreign national visitors are no longer required to quarantine upon arrival.
  • Travelers entering China only need to present a negative PCR (nucleic acid) test taken no earlier than 48 hours before departure along with required travel documentation.
  • The Chinese government will clarify its policies on outbound travel from China in the near future. CIBTvisas will provide updates as those policies are announced.
  • Several governments (including Australia, Canada, France, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States) require individuals coming from China to provide a negative PCR test to enter their countries. More countries may implement a similar requirement. These requirements are dynamic and changing often so the best way to stay up to date is through our Entry Guide, which can be found here
  • China has indicated that it will work with its individual consulates to process visas in an expeditious manner.
Updated March 15, 2023

Renew Your Visa to China

Beat the rush and renew your visa to China today! As China reopens for travelers, our visa experts anticipate a large influx of visa requests. If you or your employees are planning to travel to China in the next 12 months, we advise you get started on your visa application process.

Below are key updates that you and your corporate team should be aware of before your next business trip to China.

Not ready to get your China visa today?

Stay informed on China policies by filling out form below. We will continue to monitor updates and provide information as received.
Get The Latest China Updates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I have a visa for China issued before March 2020. Is the visa still valid? May I use it to enter China?

Yes. As of March 15, 2023, the Chinese government lifted its earlier suspension of 10-year visas for entry. If your 10-year visa has remaining validity (i.e., your planned travel period is prior to the visa’s expiration date), you may once again use it for entry into China.

Am I able to travel to China for Tourism?

Yes. The government of China announced as of March 15, 2023 it would once again be issuing visas for tourist visits to China. Because of an expected amount of pent-up demand for travel to China, which may lead to visa processing delays, we advise any would-be leisure travelers to allocate ample time before their travel plans to China to obtain their visa.

How can I get instructions to apply for a new visa?

To get all the information you need to secure a new visa, please provide the information in our search widget to get started. You’ll be able to place an order or just see what’s needed to apply for a visa to China.

What are the COVID-related requirements for entry to China? What do I need to know about COVID requirements to return from China?

As of this writing, a traveler will require a negative PCR test result taken no earlier than 48—hours prior to departure, along with a valid visa or reasons for free-free entry. Depending on your final destination, you may require a negative COVID test result to enter your destination. These requirements are dynamic and changing often so the best way to stay up to date is through our Entry Guide, which can be found here.

Can I apply for a multiple entry visa with a validity of one year?

Yes. Travellers wishing to apply for a multiple entry visa that is valid for one year, must show proof of either a previously issued double entry visa or two single entry visas in their old or current passport. Unused visas are also accepted. The letter of invitation must in addition explicitly state that a one year visa is required.

How long does it take to obtain a visa?

Currently, the processing time obtain a visa is 4 to 6 weeks. The processing time starts from the day the order is placed until the visa is issued.

Am I able to obtain a fingerprint appointment at the start of the visa application process?

It is only possible to make an appointment once we have received the full application in our office, and we have approved your documents.

Is a Business Cover Letter required?

A cover letter from your German employer in English must be submitted if the German company and the company to be visited are not part of the same business entity (e.g. subsidiary).

Do I have to go to the China Visa Center in person?

All applicants between 14 and 70 years of age must submit fingerprints for a China visa in order to complete the visa application. The fingerprints are valid for 5 years as long as the traveller uses the same passport to apply for a new China visa. If the applicant's passport has expired or the applicant is using a different passport, fingerprinting is required again.

I need a visa for China, what do I need to do?

The first step is to place an order. Once you have placed your order, we will ask you to complete the application form and submit all your supporting documents. After we have received and approved all your documents, we will book your appointment to submit your fingerprints. Your visa will be issued after you have attended your appointment and submitted your fingerprints. We will send your passport back to you using the agreed delivery method.

Which documents are required to apply for a China visa?

A passport, a copy of the passport information page, a letter of invitation from the company in China, a business cover letter from the German employer, a passport photo and a visa application form.

I did not receive a visa application form in my application pack, can you send it to me?

We will complete the visa application form for you. All you need to do is complete the online application form with all the relevant data.

Why do I have to wait so long for an appointment?

There is a limited availability of fingerprint appointments, so it is not always possible to submit the application at short notice.

How can I find out what the status is of my order?

You can check the current status on our website under the tab 'Your order', by entering the order number and last name of the traveller.

Visa Application Requirements for an China Business Visa

  1. Passport

    You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. Your passport must:
    • Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (for example, if you are requesting a 12 month visa your passport must be valid for 18 months )
    • Contain at least two blank visa pages for the visa stamp (amendments and endorsement pages cannot be used to fulfill this requirement)
    • If requesting multiple entries, the passport must contain at least two blank facing visa pages, there can be no stamps or amendment endorsement type on the pages 
    • Not be frayed, torn, separating, or altered in any other way

    If your passport does not meet these requirements, please contact CIBTvisas at 800-929-2428 for further details.

  2. Photograph(s)

    The Chinese Consulate requires a photograph that meets very strict requirements. We strongly recommend that you submit your photograph electronically to CIBTvisas so we can ensure it meets the stringent characteristics mandated by the Chinese Consulate. Follow https://cibtvisas.com/photo-service to upload your photo.

     

    All electronic photo submissions must be taken within the last six months against an all-white background. It must show a full frontal view of your head, face centered in the middle, the tops of your shoulders, and display a neutral (non-smiling) expression with eyes open, mouth closed, and ears visible. No background light or shadows are permitted. You may not wear eyeglasses, jewelry, or headwear except for religious purposes. Do not wear a white shirt. 

    Should you elect to submit an actual photograph then it must meet all of the above criteria and:

    • Be exactly 48 mm tall by 33 mm wide 
    • Be printed on high-quality photo paper
    • Not be affixed to your application, with no evidence of adhesive tape or staples

    Note that most passport photo vendors produce photos that are 2 inches by 2 inches and are not acceptable. CIBTvisas cannot submit applications with incorrectly formatted photographs.

  3. Letter of Invitation

    You must provide a letter of invitation. Use the included template in this kit as a guide to the content and format of the invitation. All components are of the template are required.

  4. Business Cover Letter

    You are required to provide a Business Cover Letter from your U.S.-based company. Be certain your letter meets the specific requirements of the consulate by using our Digital Business Cover Letter. Visit https://cibtvisas.com/bcl-order to get started.

  5. Proof of State Residency

    You must provide a proof of your current address of residency. The document must either be a copy of the front of your driver's license or government ID, or a utility bill. The document must:

    • Display your name as it appears on your passport
    • Display the current residence address as provided on your visa application

    Please note, if you must submit a utility bill the consulate requires electric, gas, or a water bill; phone and cable bills are not accepted.

  6. CIBTvisas Order Form

    Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

  7. Visa Application Form

    One fully completed and signed visa application form.  The application must:

    • Be completed online
    • Include answers for all required fields
    • List the name of the traveler exactly as it is written in the passport
    • Be printed single-sided
    • Be dated and signed in blue or black ink
    • Be enclosed with all other documents in your visa application kit
    • Have your signature on the declaration confirmation page, as well as in section 9.1A

    CIBTvisas provides a guide to assist you in completing the application. To access the guide follow this link: https://cibtvisas.com/forms?formname=China Application Guide.pdf or type the address into your browser.

  8. Former PRC Nationals or Individuals Born in Chinese Territories

    If you are a former PRC passport holder or were born in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Macau:

    • You must write your name in Chinese characters for question 1.2 on the visa application form
    • You must provide a copy of your most recent China visa and a copy of the passport in which the visa was issued
    • If you have never been issued a China visa you must submit your original China passport and a copy of your Green Card, and a copy of your Naturalization Certificate
    • If you were adopted from China you must also include a copy of your adoption papers showing adoptive parents names, name change, and photo with parents (do not include the original papers).  If applicable, include a copy of your naturalization certificate and U.S. birth certificate.

  9. Previous Visas

    If you have been granted a China visa in the past, you must provide a copy of the most recent issued China visa. If the visa is not located in your current passport, you must submit the original passport containing the previous China visa.If you no longer have the passport with the previous visa, you must provide a signed statement outlining that you no longer have that passport and what happened to it.

  10. U.S. Citizens Born in Certain Countries

    U.S. citizens born in Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Tunisia, Turkey, or Syria who are currently traveling to China with their American passport may be asked to make a personal appearance in order to apply for a visa to China. CIBTvisas will submit your request and follow up if the Embassy asks for you to appear in person.

  11. NGO/Non-Profit Workers

    If applying for a business visa, you must provide an employer letter and personal statement. Processing time varies on a case by case basis. If your employer is an NGO or nonprofit your application will require additional review by the China Visa Section.

  12. Applicants with Criminal Record

    Travelers with a criminal record will be required to appear in person at the consulate in order to provide biometrics.

  13. "Where You Stay" Form

    You must provide a completed and signed "Where You Stay" form included in this kit.

  14. Military Statement

    If you have ever served in the military, are in active military duty, are on the reserves or retired from military, the Chinese Consulate request you to complete the DECLARATION OF ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE template form included in the kit.
     
    The dates on this DECLARATION OF ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE form must match the dates on your application form for questions #8.8 and #8.12. The military information including dates of service must also be included in the Employment History section (3.2) of your application even thought this section only requires 5 year work history.

  15. Urgent Applications

    If you have an urgent visa application that carries a tight deadline, CIBTvisas can help you to save valuable time and avoid expensive delays. A CIBTvisas expert will review all of your documents to certify your application is accurate, complete and ready for submission. We will contact you personally to quickly handle any mistakes ensuring your application is submitted correctly. Visit https://cibtvisas.com/visa-pre-check-service to learn more about this service.

Visa Application Requirements for an China Tourist Visa

  1. Passport

    You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. Your passport must:
    • Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (for example, if you are requesting a 12 month visa your passport must be valid for 18 months )
    • Contain at least two blank visa pages for the visa stamp (amendments and endorsement pages cannot be used to fulfill this requirement)
    • If requesting multiple entries, the passport must contain at least two blank facing visa pages, there can be no stamps or amendment endorsement type on the pages 
    • Not be frayed, torn, separating, or altered in any other way

    If your passport does not meet these requirements, please contact CIBTvisas at 800-929-2428 for further details.

  2. Photograph(s)

    The Chinese Consulate requires a photograph that meets very strict requirements. We strongly recommend that you submit your photograph electronically to CIBTvisas so we can ensure it meets the stringent characteristics mandated by the Chinese Consulate. Follow https://cibtvisas.com/photo-service to upload your photo.

     

    All electronic photo submissions must be taken within the last six months against an all-white background. It must show a full frontal view of your head, face centered in the middle, the tops of your shoulders, and display a neutral (non-smiling) expression with eyes open, mouth closed, and ears visible. No background light or shadows are permitted. You may not wear eyeglasses, jewelry, or headwear except for religious purposes. Do not wear a white shirt. 

    Should you elect to submit an actual photograph then it must meet all of the above criteria and:

    • Be exactly 48 mm tall by 33 mm wide 
    • Be printed on high-quality photo paper
    • Not be affixed to your application, with no evidence of adhesive tape or staples

    Note that most passport photo vendors produce photos that are 2 inches by 2 inches and are not acceptable. CIBTvisas cannot submit applications with incorrectly formatted photographs.

  3. Proof of State Residency

    You must provide a proof of your current address of residency. The document must either be a copy of the front of your driver's license or government ID, or a utility bill. The document must:

    • Display your name as it appears on your passport
    • Display the current residence address as provided on your visa application

    Please note, if you must submit a utility bill the consulate requires electric, gas, or a water bill; phone and cable bills are not accepted.

  4. CIBTvisas Order Form

    Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

  5. Visa Application Form

    One fully completed and signed visa application form.  The application must:

    • Be completed online
    • Include answers for all required fields
    • List the name of the traveler exactly as it is written in the passport
    • Be printed single-sided
    • Be dated and signed in blue or black ink
    • Be enclosed with all other documents in your visa application kit
    • Have your signature on the declaration confirmation page, as well as in section 9.1A

    CIBTvisas provides a guide to assist you in completing the application. To access the guide follow this link: https://cibtvisas.com/forms?formname=China Application Guide.pdf or type the address into your browser.

  6. Travel Record

    You must provide a copy of the travel record form included in this kit. The form must:

    • Include all countries that you have visited in the last 28 days 
    • Be signed
    • Include entry/exit dates of each travel

  7. Former PRC Nationals or Individuals Born in Chinese Territories

    If you are a former PRC passport holder or were born in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Macau:

    • You must write your name in Chinese characters for question 1.2 on the visa application form
    • You must provide a copy of your most recent China visa and a copy of the passport in which the visa was issued
    • If you have never been issued a China visa you must submit your original China passport and a copy of your Green Card, and a copy of your Naturalization Certificate
    • If you were adopted from China you must also include a copy of your adoption papers showing adoptive parents names, name change, and photo with parents (do not include the original papers).  If applicable, include a copy of your naturalization certificate and U.S. birth certificate.

  8. Applicants Under the Age of 18

    All minors under the age of 18 traveling to China must:

    • Provide a copy of their birth certificate
    • Provide a copy of both parents' passports or drivers' licenses
    • Provide a copy of the parents' proof of U.S. residency status (if not U.S. citizens)
    • Provide a notarized letter of consent from both parents (if the parents are not accompanying the minor on the trip) that states the child has permission to travel. To access a sample consent letter, follow this link: https://cibtvisas.com/forms?formname=ParentalConsent.pdf or type the address into your browser
    • on page 7, part 9.1 A – applicant's name
    • On page 7, part 9.2 sections A-E -must be signed by a parent who was completing the application along with the contact information

  9. Media Professionals and Religious Professionals

    If you are a religious professional, media professional or employed by a media company, even if you are not traveling for business purposes, you must submit both a personal statement and a letter from your employer on company letterhead indicating that you are not traveling on company business and will not be performing any media or religious related work.

  10. Cruise Passengers

    Cruise ship passengers: You must list the city where your ship docks in China in the Chinese address section of the application form.

  11. Previous Visas

    If you have been granted a China visa in the past, you must provide a copy of the most recent issued China visa. If the visa is not located in your current passport, you must submit the original passport containing the previous China visa.

  12. U.S. Citizens Born in Certain Countries

    U.S. citizens born in Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Tunisia, Turkey, or Syria who are currently traveling to China with their American passport may be asked to make a personal appearance in order to apply for a visa to China. CIBTvisas will submit your request and follow up if the Embassy asks for you to appear in person.

  13. NGO/Non-Profit Workers

    If applying for a tourist visa, you must provide an employer letter and personal statement. Processing time varies on a case by case basis. If your employer is a NGO or nonprofit your application will require additional review by the China Visa Section.

  14. Applicants with Criminal Record

    Travelers with a criminal record will be required to appear in person at the consulate in order to provide biometrics.

  15. "Where You Stay" Form

    You must provide a completed and signed "Where You Stay" form included in this kit.

  16. Military Statement

    If you have ever served in the military, are in active military duty, are on the reserves or retired from military, the Chinese Consulate request you to complete the DECLARATION OF ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE template form included in the kit.
     
    The dates on this DECLARATION OF ACTIVE MILITARY SERVICE form must match the dates on your application form for questions #8.8 and #8.12. The military information including dates of service must also be included in the Employment History section (3.2) of your application even thought this section only requires 5 year work history.

  17. Urgent Applications

    If you have an urgent visa application that carries a tight deadline, CIBTvisas can help you to save valuable time and avoid expensive delays. A CIBTvisas expert will review all of your documents to certify your application is accurate, complete and ready for submission. We will contact you personally to quickly handle any mistakes ensuring your application is submitted correctly. Visit https://cibtvisas.com/visa-pre-check-service to learn more about this service.

View a China Visa

Want to see what a visa to China looks like? You can view a sample visa for China and see what information it contains.

Learn More

Stay Informed

Get the CIBTvisas Weekly Update for the most recent information on travel requirements.

Learn More

CIBTvisas

Fast.  CIBTvisas is the fastest way to get a travel visa or passport.

Easy.  CIBTvisas can help.  Our specialists are available by phone or email.

Secure.  CIBTvisas maintains the highest industry standard in data security.