China Tourist Visa Guide for Foreign Travelers
China welcomes visitors from around the world to explore its rich culture, cuisine,
and heritage. This guide provides comprehensive information on visa-free entry,
application methods, required documents, and processing procedures for travelers.
1. Visa-Free Entry to China
As of June 6, 2025, China has extended its unilateral visa-free policy to citizens of 43
countries and regions. Travelers from these nations can enter China without a visa
for stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, or
transit.
Eligible Countries and Regions:
Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Holland, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland,
Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal,
Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra,
Monaco, Liechtenstein, Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North
Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay.
Holding valid ordinary passports can be exempted from visa requirement if entering
into China for the purpose of business, tourism, family or friends’ visits, exchange
and transit. They can stay in China for no more than 30 days without visa.
Please note that the duration of stay may vary based on bilateral agreements. For
instance, nationals from some countries may be allowed to stay for up to 90 dayswithin a 180-day period, while others may have different durations. It's advisable to
check the specific entry requirements for each nationality before traveling.
Conditions for Visa-Free Entry:
1. 2. 3. 4. Travelers must hold a valid ordinary passport with at least 6 months of validity.
Entry must be for tourism, business, family visits, or transit purposes.
A return ticket and hotel reservation are required.
Travelers may be subject to additional requirements or restrictions based on their
nationality.
2. For Travelers Who Need a Visa
Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must apply for a Chinese Tourist
Visa (Type L) before traveling.
Where to Apply:
Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC): The main platform for visa
applications worldwide. Website: https://www.visaforchina.cn
Chinese Embassy or Consulate: Travelers without a CVASC in their country can
apply directly at the local Chinese embassy.
eVisa (for Group Travel): Travelers joining authorized travel agencies can apply for a
Port Visa or eVisa, usually for entry to cities like Hainan, Shenzhen, or Shanghai.
3. Required Documents for Visa Application
Applicants should prepare the following materials before submission:
1. Valid Passport: Minimum of 6 months validity and at least 2 blank pages.
2. Visa Application Form (Form V.2013): Completed online or printed and filled
manually.3. Recent Passport Photo: Color photo (48mm x 33mm) with a white background.
4. Travel Itinerary / Proof of Booking: Round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations.
5. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or income proof covering the last 3–6
months.
6. Travel Insurance: Recommended for the duration of stay.
7. Invitation Letter (if applicable): From a Chinese travel agency, company, or relative
in China.
Processing Time:
Usually 4–7 working days, though express options may be available for an extra fee.
Visa Fee:
Approximately €60–€120 (varies by nationality and service center).
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Visit https://www.visaforchina.cn.
2. Choose your country and nearest CVASC center.
3. Fill out the online application form and print it.
4. Book an appointment online and attend with all required documents.
5. Submit fingerprints (if required) and pay the visa fee.
6. Collect your passport once your visa is approved.
5. Upon Arrival in China
1. 2. 3. Carry printed copies of your visa approval, hotel booking, and return ticket.
Register your accommodation within 24 hours of arrival (your hotel usually
handles this).
Always keep your passport and visa safely with you for ID verification.6. Digital Visa Assistance Options
For travelers preferring to manage everything online, several reliable platforms can
simplify the process:
iVisa (ivisa.com): Fast and user-friendly, helps with documentation and application
filing.
China Online Visa Portal: Offers step-by-step support and online payment options.
Trip.com Visa Service: Works well for tourists booking hotels and flights together.
Note: Most of these services require online payment (USD $30–$120), depending on
nationality and speed of processing. Payments can be made via international credit
card or PayPal.
Summary
Visa-Free: 43 countries (mostly European + selected Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin
American, and Oceania).
Visa Required: Apply via CVASC or embassy.
Documents Needed: Passport, photo, itinerary, hotel & flight proof, financial means,
optional invitation.
Processing: 4–7 days average.
Support: Apps like iVisa and Trip.com can simplify the process.
China Fun by Wisdom Travel
Beijing, China
Promoting authentic Chinese culture and tourism worldwide.
Contact Number: +8615210931891
Email: Ada@chinafun.co
Website: https://chinafun.co
