When visa-free doesn't cover your trip
Apply for a Regular China Visa
If you're not on a visa-free list, staying longer than 30 days, or coming to work, study or report news, apply for the matching visa before departure via the official channels.
Not sure? Use the entry path tool →
When you need a regular visa
Apply for a visa before departure if any of these apply to your trip.
Common visa types
Categories are defined by purpose. Confirm the exact category and its sub-type with your CVASC before applying — the wrong category can mean a refused entry.
- For tourism when visa-free doesn't apply
- Itinerary and accommodation evidence
- Meetings, trade and commercial visits
- Invitation from a Chinese partner
- Admission letter and official forms
- X1 for long-term, X2 for short courses
- Work permit / notification required first
- Employer documentation needed
- Q for family of Chinese citizens / residents
- S for family of foreigners working/studying
- For accredited journalists & reporting
- Prior approval / accreditation required
Illustrative summary — letters and sub-types follow official categories and change over time. Confirm the correct category and documents on the official source before applying.
How to apply
Four steps from online form to collection.
Fill the official online application
Start from the official MFA consular visa system, COVA, or the CVASC page for your location. The exact system can vary by country and center.
- Answer every field truthfully; describe your employment even if retired, unemployed or self-employed.
- Match the photo specification exactly — wrong dimensions or background can cause rejection.
- Review carefully before final submission and confirm the correction procedure on the official site.
Use the official MFA / consular application portal, COVA, or the CVASC page for your jurisdiction. Do not rely on third-party forms.
Submit / book an appointment at your CVASC
Lodge your application at the China Visa Application Service Center that covers your place of residence. Some centers are by appointment, others accept walk-ins.
- Jurisdiction is assigned by where you live — confirm the correct center before traveling to it.
- Bring the official application confirmation and supporting documents requested by your center.
- Mail-in and agent options vary by center — verify acceptance on the official center page.
Centers, hours and submission rules differ by location — check the page for your city before you go.
Passport, documents & biometrics
Provide your passport plus the supporting documents for your visa category. Fingerprints are collected for most applicants.
- Passport valid ≥ 6 months with blank visa pages.
- Category documents — invitation, itinerary, proof of funds or enrolment as required.
- Biometrics are required for most applicants — confirm any exemption officially.
Many applicants use refundable or held reservations as itinerary evidence. Confirm what your center accepts before purchasing anything non-refundable.
Pay the fee and collect
Pay the visa fee and collect your passport with the visa according to your center or embassy instructions. Fees and processing time vary by location, nationality and visa type.
- Keep your pickup slip — collection usually requires it.
- Check the visa details (validity, entries, duration of stay) on collection.
- Allow a 2-week buffer beyond the stated processing time before you travel.
Fees and turnaround are listed on the official CVASC site. Express and rush services carry different fees — verify current amounts for your center.
Real traveler questions — verify officially
Questions travelers commonly raise. These are not policy facts — check each against the official source before you act.
My trip mixes tourism and business — which category do I pick?+
The form asks for hotel and flight bookings — do I buy them first?+
When should I realistically apply, and is it safe to book flights first?+
Which center must I use, and can I mail my passport or use an agent?+
Sources
Visa-free entry to China — eligible nationalities (latest update) · Reviewed 2026-05-18
Frequently Asked Questions on Visa-free Entry into China (Updated February, 2026) · Reviewed 2026-06-06
National Immigration Administration of China — entry & exit policy hub · Reviewed 2026-05-22
China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) · Reviewed 2026-05-22
Policy information changes frequently. This page summarizes official guidance and was last reviewed on 2026-06-06. Visa categories, fees, center rules and processing times vary by location; confirm with the official visa application system, CVASC, or Chinese embassy/consulate before travel.