What is the difference between an L, M, and F visa?

L is for tourism, M is for commercial/trade activities, and F is for non-commercial visits like cultural exchanges or study tours.

How long can I stay in China on a tourist visa?

Most visas allow for a stay of 30 to 90 days per entry, though this depends entirely on the visa type and the consular officer's decision.

Do I need a visa if I am visiting for less than 15 days?

Citizens of certain countries (including the UK, UAE, and many EU nations) can enter China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism or business until late 2025.

How does the 144-hour visa-free transit work?

The 72/144-hour visa-free transit allows travellers from 54 countries to visit specific cities without a visa, provided they have a confirmed ticket to a third country.

Do I need to provide fingerprints at the visa centre?

Currently, fingerprints are required for most applicants aged 14 to 70, meaning a physical visit to a Visa Service Centre is usually necessary.

Can I get a 10-year multiple-entry visa?

Yes, British, American, and Canadian citizens are frequently granted multi-year, multiple-entry visas, though specific fees and rules apply.

How far in advance should I apply?

You should apply at least 1 month before your trip, but no earlier than 3 months, as the visa validity often begins from the date of issue.

Do I need to register with the police upon arrival?

Z, X1, and Q1 visa holders must apply for a Residence Permit at the local Public Security Bureau within 30 days of arrival.

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China Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained

Navigating the Chinese visa landscape requires a clear understanding of the specific 'alphabet' of visa categories, ranging from the L-category for tourists to the Z-category for workers. Following the post-pandemic reopening, China has significantly streamlined its entry requirements, including temporary visa-free entry for several nationalities and the removal of certain health declaration forms. However, the application process remains rigorous, often involving a detailed online form and a physical appointment at a Visa Service Centre. Whether you are planning a holiday to the Great Wall, attending a trade fair in Canton, or relocating to Shanghai for work, choosing the correct visa is critical. Each category has distinct documentation requirements, such as invitation letters from Chinese entities or proof of onward travel. This guide provides a high-level overview of the most common visa types, the application workflow, and essential tips to ensure a successful outcome. Please note that visa policies are subject to rapid change; always verify the latest requirements with your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate before submitting your application.

Key highlights

Diverse visa categories including L (Tourism), M (Business), and Z (Work)
Expanding visa-free entry policies for many European and Asian nations
144-hour transit-free options for short stays in major cities
Standardised online application system (COVA) used worldwide
Biometric data collection required for most applicants aged 14-70
Multi-year multiple-entry options available for specific nationalities
Fast-track and express processing available at most service centres
Formal Invitation Letters (PU/TE) may be required for business and work

Processing time

4-10 working days

Processing times exclude weekends and public holidays. Express services are generally available for a surcharge at most Visa Service Centres.

Rush option available

Estimated cost

$140 - $250+

Consular fee (varies by nationality)$30 - $140+
Visa Service Centre service feeVaries
Express/Rush surcharge (optional)$20 - $50

Requirements

Hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the entry date
Provide an invitation letter from a Chinese company, individual, or school (if applicable)
Complete the online COVA application form with 100% accuracy
Have at least two blank consecutive pages in your passport
Provide a detailed travel itinerary including round-trip flight bookings
Proof of hotel reservations for the duration of the stay (for L visas)
Physical presence for biometric (fingerprint) collection if required
Clear, high-resolution digital and physical passport-style photos
Proof of legal residence in the country where you are applying
Medical exam results (only for Long-term Z or X1 visa types)

Documents you'll need

Passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages
Completed COVA (China Online Visa Application) form
One recent biometric passport photo (white background)
Proof of legal stay or residence status (if applying outside home country)
Previous Chinese visas or passports (if applicable)
Flight itinerary and hotel reservations (L Visa)
Official Letter of Invitation (F, M, or Z Visas)
Foreigner’s Work Permit Notification (Z Visa)

How to apply, step by step

1
Identify your Visa Category
Determine which visa category matches your visit (e.g., L for tourism, M for business) and check if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry.
2
Complete the COVA Online Form
Complete the China Online Visa Application (COVA) form. Ensure every detail matches your passport exactly, as errors may lead to rejection.
3
Print and Sign Documents
Once the form is submitted, print the confirmation page and the full form, and sign the required sections.
4
Book an Appointment
Use the online system to schedule an appointment at the nearest China Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) or Embassy.
5
Submit Application & Biometrics
Attend your appointment to submit your passport, physical documents, and provide biometric data (fingerprints).
6
Pay Processing Fees
Pay the visa and service fees. Some centres require payment at submission, while others collect it upon collection.
7
Collect your Passport
Wait for the processing period to conclude and return to the centre to collect your passport with the visa sticker.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your application photo has no glasses, jewellery, or headwear (unless for religious reasons) and a plain white background.
When filling out the COVA form, do not leave gaps in your work or education history. Use 'N/A' or 'None' if applicable.
The invitation letter must contain the applicant’s full name, passport number, and travel dates, and must have an official red seal (Chop).
Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved, though a 'flight reservation' is usually required.
Double-check that the visa type issued matches the one you applied for before leaving the collection window.
Ensure your passport has no damage, water marks, or torn pages, as the Chinese consulate is very strict regarding passport condition.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

China Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time China Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time China Embassy & Consulate Guide

Browse all visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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