This page covers the three basic things that China tourists need to know about China visas and links to further information: 1. Do I need a China visa?...2. which type of visa to apply?... 3. How do I apply?... 4. How do I extend it?..
What Is a China Visa?
A China visa is a travel authorization document usually required by China for entering its borders, which is issued by a Chinese embassy or consulate, affixed in your passport. There are several different types of visas, each of which afford the bearer different rights in the host country.
Who Needs a China Visa?
Usually most foreigners traveling to Chinese mainland, whether for business or pleasure, require a visa. It's very difficult to obtain a China port visa at the Chinese border entry points. However some cities and regions of China are visa free in certain circumstances.
How to Visit China without a Visa?
Tourists holding ordinary passports of The United Arab Emirates, Republic of Belarus, Serbia, etc. are allowed to enter China for up to 30 days without visas for tourism or family/friend visits. Direct flight transit without leaving the airport doesn't require a visa, and then there are special areas of China with visa-free policies. More detail on: Visa Exemptions.
- 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
- 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
- 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy
- Hong Kong's and Macau's visa-free policy
- Our recommendations on making the most of visa-free China cities
What Types of Visa Should I Apply?
Generally speaking, visitors traveling to Chinese mainland require a China visa, which should be obtained in advance. The type of visa you should apply for depends on your reasons for traveling. Read about the types of China visa to know:
- 12 main types of China visa: tourist visa, work visa, business visa, etc.
- Single-, double-, and multiple- entry visas
- The 10-year China visa
- Visa on arrival
How Do I Apply for a China Visa?
It is usually recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel. When you have the required items ready, submit the application at the appropriate visa office of China embassy/consulate-general, or Visa Application Center in your country. See our step by step guide, including the information as below:
- Visa application requirements
- Visa fee
- Visa processing time
- How to extend your visa
Tailor-Making a China Tour
China Highlights is your China tour tailor-making expert. See the recommended tours below for inspiration:
- 8-Day Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai GOLDEN TRIANGLE Tour
- 11-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, and Shanghai CLASSIC WONDERS tour
As an alterative to customizing the recommended tours linked above to meet your individual requirements, we can help you tailor-make a tour according to your interests and requirements.