China Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- The L Visa is primarily for sightseeing and visiting friends or family
- Online application forms must be completed before visiting the centre
- Biometric data (fingerprints) is usually required for most applicants
- Processing times are relatively fast, often within one week
- 10-year multi-entry visas are available for specific nationalities
- Group visas are an option for organised tours of five or more people
- Visa-free transit is available for short stays in specific cities
Processing time
4-5 working days
Rush and express services are available at most Visa Centres for an additional fee, reducing wait times significantly.
Estimated cost
$140–$240
- Consular Fee (Single Entry)$30–$140 depending on nationality
- Visa Service Centre FeeVaries by location (typically $30–$100)
- Express/Rush Surcharge$20–$40
Requirements
- A passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- At least two blank visa pages in your passport
- A completed China Online Visa Application (COVA) form
- Proof of round-trip flight arrangements
- Detailed hotel bookings for the duration of the stay
- An invitation letter if you are not staying in hotels
- No criminal record in the country of application
- Physical presence for biometric fingerprinting (if required)
- Recent passport photograph meeting specific Chinese dimensions (33mm x 48mm)
- Financial means to support yourself during the trip (bank statements may be requested)
Documents you'll need
- Original passport with 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Completed and signed COVA (China Online Visa Application) form
- One recent digital and one physical passport-style photo
- Photocopy of previous Chinese visas (if applicable)
- Round-trip flight bookings and itinerary
- Hotel reservations or a formal Letter of Invitation (LOI)
- Proof of legal stay in your current country (if not a citizen)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete the Online Application
Complete the COVA (China Online Visa Application) form accurately. Once submitted, print the confirmation page and the full form.
- 2
Schedule an Appointment
In most regions, you must book an appointment at the nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) to submit your documents.
- 3
Prepare Your Document Package
Gather your passport, printed form, photos, and proof of travel (flights/hotels) into a single folder for submission.
- 4
Submit Application and Biometrics
Visit the visa centre to submit your application and provide fingerprints. Note that some applicants may be exempt from biometrics based on age.
- 5
Pay Fees
Pay the visa fee and the service centre fee. You will receive a pick-up form with an estimated collection date.
- 6
Wait for Processing
Wait for the standard 4-5 working days. You can check the status of your application online using your tracking number.
- 7
Collect Your Visa
Return to the centre with your pick-up form to collect your passport with the new visa affixed. Check the details for accuracy immediately.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your photo has a plain white background and you are not wearing jewellery or glasses.
- Double-check that the name on your application matches your passport exactly, including middle names.
- Submit your application at least one month before your intended travel date, but no more than three months early.
- If you are visiting multiple cities, list them all in your itinerary on the application form.
- Ensure your invitation letter includes the inviter's Chinese ID number and signature.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved, though a 'flight reservation' is required.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.