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
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.