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• Notice of the Chinese Embassy in the UK on the Exemption of Fingerprints Collection for Short-term Visa Applicants 2024-09-02
• Notice on applications for Hong Kong and Macau SAR Visas via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center 2024-08-07
• ***Important Notice*** 2023-10-17
• Important Notice on Fingerprints collection of Visa Application 2023-08-03
• Notice of the Chinese Embassy in the UK on Extending the Exemption of Fingerprints Collection for Eligible Types of Visa Applicants 2023-12-15

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Get a China Visa

• Assistance in completing the China Application Form in order to avoid unnecessary delays to the submission of the application
• Quality checking of your application and supporting materials to ensure it is complete, and minimising the risk of refusal at the Consulate
• The booking of the fingerprint collection appointment

Once you have placed your order please complete the China Application Form and upload your documents securely at https://cibtvisas.co.uk/upload-forms?service=china . Once your China Application Form has been completed and your documents have been assessed by one of our specialists, a CIBTvisas consultant will contact you to set up an appointment for the fingerprint collection. The current waiting time for an appointment is approximately 3 weeks. Applicants will need to attend the appointment in person where they will be required to submit their fingerprints, the visa application form and supporting documents. Payment of the consular fee will be made by the applicant at the time of fingerprint collection.

Business Travel Requirements for an China Visa for UK Citizens

Fingerprint submission, visa application and photograph.

Complete the enclosed China Application Form. Then send it and the rest of your documents to the CIBTvisas office address listed on the submission checklist page of this application pack. We will provide you with your official China application form, for your signature, when we meet you before your consular fingerprinting appointment.

Upload your photograph at https://cibtvisas.co.uk/photo-service . For guidance on how to submit an acceptable photograph refer to the China Photo Guide contained in this Application Pack.

Letter of Invitation

Copy of passport, declaration form, cibtvisas order confirmation.

Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

Multiple Entry Applicants

Current or previous visa holders.

Specific requirements apply to travellers renewing or requesting another Chinese visa. Additional documentation must be provided where a Chinese visa has been previously issued and any valid Chinese visa must be cancelled before an application for a new one can be made.

Travellers must:

• Supply the original (current or cancelled) passport containing the most recently issued Chinese visa (valid or expired), together with a copy of the information pages of the passport and a copy of the Chinese visa.
• Provide a personal statement requesting the cancellation of the current valid visa. A copy is accepted. Click here to access a sample personal statement.
• Provide a personal statement if the passport containing the previous visa cannot be submitted. Click here to access a sample personal statement.
• Supply a clear copy of marriage/deed poll certificate if the old passport was issued in a different name to the new one, together a clear copy of their spouse's passport if applicable.

Dual Nationals

Applicants holding dual nationality must:

• Apply on their UK passport where a UK passport is held or on their EU passport where a EU passport is held or on the passport containing the UK visa/permit if the traveller doesn't hold a UK or EU passport
• Supply both original passports, a copy of the identification pages of each passport, and a copy of the identity card, if applicable. If the applicant cannot provide both original passport, an original statement explaining why this is not possible may be accepted as long as stating something other than being used for travel.
• Be a UK resident, stay in the country while the application is being processed, and apply for standard processing as express processing is not available for dual nationals

Travel to Tibet

Applicants of chinese origin, media or religion related professionals.

Applicants whose occupation includes media or religion related activities must include a personal statement from the applicant's UK employer. A colour copy is acceptable. This letter must specify the nature of the business of the company, the applicant's job title, and the nature of the visit in China. The media-related employer must also state that the applicant will not carry out any media or religion related activities whilst in China (including filming, reporting and journalism).

Five Year Visa Applicants

Advised traveller service (highly recommended), tourist travel requirements for an china visa for uk citizens, proof of travel arrangements.

One parent must complete and sign section 5 of the Visa Application Form.  

• Original and copy of long birth certificate
• Original passports of both parents plus a copy of their information page(s)
• Original and copy of their Indefinite Leave to Remain permit where applicable
• Old Chinese passport or People's Republic of China Exit and Entry Permit if applicable

CIBTvisas is unable to assist children who are applying for their first visa and whose parent(s) holds a Chinese passport as they must apply in person for their visa.

Travelling from Hong Kong

View a china visa.

Want to see what a visa to China looks like?  You can view a sample visa for China and see what information it contains.

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Could UK visitors be granted visa-free entry to China?

China recently granted visa-free entry to citizens of six countries. but why was the uk left off the list.

On 24 November 2023, China announced a new visa-free entry policy for ordinary passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia, effective from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2024. This policy allows for business and tourism for up to 15 days per entry.

The timing of this announcement and the countries selected have prompted speculation. Apart from Malaysia, which on 26 November announced that Chinese tourists could visit the country visa-free for 30 days, none of the other countries have reciprocal visa-free agreements in place for Chinese visitors.

Nevertheless, the announcement roughly coincided with a meeting between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his French counterpart Catherine Colonna, and comes ahead of a scheduled EU-China Summit in early December. These events aim to improve relations and facilitate travel for foreign investors from European countries, aligning with China’s broader strategy to attract investors and strengthen economic ties in the face of an economic slowdown and a decrease in foreign investment.

The move is part of the gradual softening of China’s entry requirements following the lifting of its Covid-era restrictions in early 2023. China resumed its pre-Covid visa and entry policies in March 2023, including the 144-hour visa-free transit policy , which allows foreign travellers transiting through the country to enjoy a six-day stay in certain Chinese cities without a visa. Later, in September 2023, the country rolled out simplifications to its visa application form, reducing the amount of information related to educational background, family members, and travel history applicants need to provide.

It is hoped that this latest move will serve as a trial for wider visa-free entry policies, and that more countries will be added to the exemption in the future.

There has been no indication of if or when UK visitors can expect the same visa-free entry, and the British government has made no specific comment on the announcement. Relations between the UK and China have cooled somewhat in recent years, which could well have pushed the UK further down the list of countries likely to be granted visa-free travel.

Although some have speculated that David Cameron ’s surprise return to government could signify the resumption of a more gung-ho attitude to cooperation with China, at a recent Global Investment Summit at Hampton Court Palace, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasised that the UK’s ties with China would not return to the so-called ‘Golden Era’, saying that China had changed, and “it’s right that [the UK’s] strategy evolves to take account of that.” Nevertheless, the UK has still been taking steps to strengthen its economic and trade relationship with China, especially following former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly ’s visit to China in August 2023. “The only way to influence China is to engage with China,” Mr Cleverly stressed in a video shared on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s (FCDO) social channels at the time. “That is why I’m here in Beijing. That is why I am meeting with Chinese ministers. That is why diplomacy is so incredibly important.”

In conclusion, while the UK is not included in China’s current visa-free policy, the situation remains dynamic. As recently as October 2023, China removed the requirement to make an appointment to apply for a visa at the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre and will now allow walk-ins. The ongoing developments in international relations and China’s broader strategy of economic integration and facilitation of global travel could potentially lead to future changes in visa policies for UK travellers. For now, business and other travellers from the UK must adhere to the existing visa application procedures.

Robynne Tindall

Robynne Tindall is FOCUS's Editorial Manager

What are David Cameron’s ties to China?

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How to Apply for a China Visa — a Step-by-Step Guide

Visa-Free Access to China : If you're from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Malaysia, New Zealand, Australia, and Poland, you can visit China visa-free for 15 days until December 31st, 2025. If you're from Singapore, you can relish visa-free access to China for up to 30 days.

If your nationality isn't listed above or if you aim to discover China for more than two weeks, we offer a Port Visa Service for just US$100 per person  once your tour booking is confirmed with us. No stress of embassy visits and visa interviews.

How to Apply for a China Visa

Planning to visit China, but don't know how to apply for a China visa? We're breaking it down for you with our step-by-step guide, follow the steps and get your China visa efficiently.

The visa information we provide is for reference only. We are a travel agency. If you book a trip with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter when applying for a tourist visa.

1. Find out if you need a visa

The first thing is to check whether you need a visa or not. You usually need to apply for a Chinese visa unless you meet one of China's visa-free policies . 72- and 144-hour visa-free transit offer great convenience if you have a layover in China.

2. Find out which visa you need.

There are many types of China visas. Choose a visa type that applies to your situation. If you are planning to go on a vacation in China, apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa).

3. Prepare the required documents.

The following list of documents are required for any China visa application:

• A valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you enter China.
• A complete visa application form (The visa application form can be downloaded from the Chinese embassy website or from our website. You complete it by computer, print and sign it. In some countries such as UK you should complete an online form . On the form, you might find an item "Serial number of invitation letter of the authorized organization", you may skip this item if you don't have an invitation letter, or the invitation letter is not of this type.)
• A recent passport-type photograph (head and shoulders only, front view, with a white background, approximately 48mmx33mm)

Along with the aforementioned generally required documents, several additional documents are required depending upon the type of China visa applied for.

For instance, if you are applying for a tourist L visa , you need to prepare an air ticket booking record (round trip) and proof of a hotel reservation OR an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency. ( An invitation letter could be provided by us without extra charge if a China tour of 3 days or more is booked .)

An invitation letter can replace the air ticket and hotel booking if you are planning to stay with friends or family who live in China and can't provide the hotel confirmation, or if your travel is being organized by a travel agency (or other duly authorized organization) in China . We can provide you with the invitation letter if you book a tour with us.

4. Submit the application.

You may submit the application to the Visa Office at Chinese embassies or consulates, or China Visa Application Service Centers (also called CVASC) if they are operating in your country.

Starting from 2018, visa applicants from more and more countries (including the U.S., the UK, and Canada) have to make their visa application in person and have their fingerprints collected .

The regular service processing time is 4 days, and the rushed service takes about 1 day. The latter is only available in extreme emergencies pending a consular officer's approval.

5. Pay the fee and collect your visa.

Go to the place where you apply for a China visa, pay the fee, and collect your visa.

The fees vary enormously depending on your nationality and number of entries. Here we listed China visa prices for some countries for your reference. It may change based on the updated policies.

The fees shown in the table are only for the cost of visa. If you apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center, the service fee and tax are required.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

When to Apply for a Visa

It is important to get your visa early, but not too early because it is only valid for 90/180 days for single/double-entry visas from the issue date.

It is usually recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel .

Apply for Special Permits, If Necessary.

If you are planning on traveling to the Tibet Autonomous Region, you will need to get a Tibet Travel Permit from a Chinese travel agency. As a travel agency based in China for more than 20 years, we can help you apply for the Tibet Travel Permit.

Check the most popular Tibet tours .

Apply for a China Visa in Hong Kong

If you are already in Hong Kong and want to visit the Chinese mainland, it is possible to get a China visa in Hong Kong. Read our step-by-step guide .

Tailor-Making a Private China Tour

China Highlights is your China tour tailor-making expert. See the recommended tours below for inspiration or check out our ideas and suggestions on How to Plan Your China Tour .

• 8-Day Shanghai - Xian - Beijing Private Tour - China's Ancient and Modern Collision
• 13-Day Beijing – Xi'an – Guilin/Yangshuo – Hangzhou - Suzhou – Shanghai Private Tour - Riches of China
• 13-Day Private Tour: Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu –Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai A Close Encounter with Pandas - China Essence and Panda Tour

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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Can I travel to China? Travel rules from the UK explained 

In December 2019, a cluster of Chinese citizens in Wuhan reported mysterious flu-like symptoms in what became the start of a pandemic that would change the world as we knew it. Countries closed their borders and leading scientists embarked on a mission to create effective vaccines, leading many travellers to rediscover the wonders on their doorsteps and the concept of the great British staycation .

Fast forward to January 2023, and China is welcoming tourists once again. Hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens will be hoping to travel domestically to join family ahead of Chinese New Year and see in the Year of the Rabbit, while curious international travellers are adding the country to their bucket lists once again for the year ahead.

These are the entry requirements, and the UK government's advice, as of Monday 9 January 2023.

Can I travel to China from the UK, and back again?

Yes, with some restrictions. After almost three years of Covid stalling China’s tourism industry, Thursday 5 January 2023 marked the opening of China’s borders to the world once again. However, as of Monday 9 January 2023, China remains in the midst of a Covid surge, meaning strict rules are in place for travellers wishing to visit the country.

What are the entry requirements for China?

Since international flights to China resumed on Thursday 5 January 2023, all travellers are required to take a pre-departure PCR Covid test in the 48 hours prior to travel. 

Once confirmed, a negative PCR test result can be submitted by filling in a health declaration form on the  China customs website . Negative results can also be submitted on the China customs app or a registered WeChat account. 

Travellers who display symptoms of fever on arrival in China may be asked to take a further antigen test. Self-quarantine will be imposed in the event of a positive test result and mild symptoms, while travellers can be sent to medical institutions for treatment if symptoms are more severe.

The UK government website recommends that all travellers pack a supply of medication to treat flu-like symptoms. It is also recommended that accommodation is stocked with additional food, water and medical supplies in case you are mandated to isolate.

What are the rules on returning to the UK from China?

All travellers aged 12 and over must obtain a negative pre-departure Covid test result no more than two days prior to travelling back from mainland China to the UK. Results are checked by airlines and Border Force officials in the UK. These rules currently apply to travellers on direct and indirect flights, and those arriving in England as a final destination plus anyone transiting through England.

Test results can be provided in the form of a printed document, an email, or text message, and must contain the following information:

• A full name that matches the name on travel documents
• Date of birth or age
• Result of the test
• Date the test sample was collected or received by the test provider
• Name of the test provider and their contact details
• Confirmation of the type of test taken, which can be a lateral flow or PCR

NHS-provided tests cannot be used as pre-departure tests. In addition to the required pre-departure tests when returning from mainland China, travellers arriving at London Heathrow Airport may be asked to undertake a voluntary test on arrival, as part of the UK government’s monitoring of potential new variants.

Are there any other entry requirements for travel to China?

According to the latest UK government website, travellers wishing to visit China on a British Citizen passport can do so by:

• Obtaining an “Invitation Letter” or “Verification Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial foreign affairs office or department of commerce (M or F visa)
• Obtaining a “Notification Letter of Foreigners Work Permit” (Z visa)
• Visiting a family member with a Z, M, or F visa
• Intending to visit a family member who is a Chinese citizen or who holds a Chinese permanent residence permit
• Qualifying for a high-level talent (R) visa
• Qualifying for a transport crew (C) visa

Visa applications must be made, in person, at a Visa Application Centre. Note that biometric data (scanned fingerprints) has to be provided as part of the application process. Chinese Visa Application Centres in London , Manchester and Edinburgh are operating, but with limited opening hours. The Belfast centre remains closed.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

For more information and updated rules, visit the   UK government website before travelling. We also recommend ensuring you have valid   travel insurance with Covid cover before taking any trips.

How to Get a China Tourist Visa in UK for British Citizens

Which country automatically comes to your mind when you talk about the East? I doubt China won’t be the first! As one of the biggest countries in Asia (and one with the richest culture and history, no doubt), China has been one of the most prominent Asian countries, especially during the past few years. Its economy, along with its tourism industry is just booming.

You’ll find that China is like a mixture of the past, present, and future all in one large mass of land. You’ll be surprised at how towns can go from being a modern metropolitan area bustling with people and cars to a historical landmark in just a blink of an eye.

• Three Days in Beijing Itinerary- The Best Things to do in Beijing, China
• 14 Best Cities to Visit in China with Tips on Places to Visit
• First Trip to China – Our Luxury Hotel Stay Experience with Sofitel Beijing Central
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in China
• 10 Traditional Chinese Medicine Activities You Can Do in Beijing, China

However, this is just a small peek of what China is. It’s not easy to encapsulate in a few words just how China should make it to your travel list with a history spanning at least 3 millennia. If you want to know what China’s all about, let me give you a few tips on how you can get to this country using your UK Passport.

Quick Facts About China

Capital: Beijing

Country Code: +86

Languages Spoken: Mandarin (widely spoken among all the Chinese languages), English

Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB)

Emergency Numbers: 110 for the Police, 120 for the Emergency Center, 122 for any traffic accidents, 12110 SMS alarm for the Police, 12395 for Search and Rescue Center (emergencies in water), 119 for Fire Alarm

Requirements for China Tourist Visa

• Passport with at least 6 months remaining validity as well as a photocopy of the passport’s data and photo
• Filled out a copy of the Visa Application Form
• A recently-taken color photo with a white background ( here are the requirements)
• Proof of legal stay or residence status in if you’re not applying for the visa in your country of citizenship
• If you’re not applying in your country of citizenship, you must provide the original as well as a photocopy of your valid visa or certificate of stay as well as employment or student status in the country where you’re staying (if applicable)
• A copy of previous Chinese passports or previous Chinese visas should you have any
• Documents showing your itinerary in China, hotel accommodation, round trip tickets, and if applicable, an invitation letter sent by a relevant entity or individual in China (you can also get something like this from a tour operator should you decide to book your trip with one), a cover letter may come in handy as well

Step-by-Step Procedure in Applying for China Tourist Visa

1. Gather all the necessary documents for your application

2. Create an appointment with the Chinese Visa Application Service Center to drop off your application here

3. Arrive at the Visa Center on the day of your visit with your documents

4. Have your on-site photo taken while your passport is being scanned

5. Submit your application at the counter after your number is called

6. Fill out the payment-due slip which will be given by the staff to you if your application is accepted

7. Pay the visa fee, service fee, postal service fee, etc.

8. Retain the pickup form which you’ll be showing once your China Tourist visa is ready for pick up

9. Track the status of your application here and pick it up when it’s ready

• You might be asked to attend an interview depending on the requirements of the Chinese Embassy. They will give you a time for the interview and you have to come back to the embassy on the dot.
• If you want to receive your passport through the post, please provide a prepaid, traceable envelope with the assigned receiving address when submitting. There will be an extra charge if the visa center will be the one to provide an envelope for you.
• You should also fill out the Payment Authorization Form in case you need to get a refund or you need to be charged additionally by the center through your debit card.
• You must submit your application and collect your passport by yourself. If, in any case, there’s something that’s preventing you from coming to their office personally, you may have someone apply for you. Just make sure that you have prepared all the documents and have signed all that needs to be signed.

Where You Can Apply for China Tourist Visa

LONDON 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU Telephone: +44 (0)20 7776 7888 Fax: +44 (0)20 7710 6001 Email: [email protected]

EDINBURGH 2nd Floor, Exchange Tower 19 Canning Street City of Edinburgh EH3 8EG United Kingdom Telephone: 0131 2292519 Fax: 0131 2291598 Email: [email protected]

MANCHESTER Ground Floor, 81 Mosley Street Manchester, M2 3HR Telephone: 44- 1612361070 Fax: 44-1612361070 Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions about China & China Tourist Visa

1. How long does it take to process the application for a China Tourist Visa?

You can choose to have the standard service where you can get the visa on the 4th working day, or express service where you can get the visa on the 3rd working day (still subject for approval).

2. How much does it cost to apply for a China visa?

Here are the rates for applying for a Visa (inclusive of VAT):

• Regular Service: £151
• Express Service: £182
• Postal Return: £175

3. How long is my visa’s validity?

The Chinese visa is typically valid for 3 months and allows a UK Citizen to stay in their country for a maximum of 15 days.

4. How far ahead can I apply for a Chinese visa?

You should apply at least 1 month ahead of your trip to China. Since visas are only valid for around 3 months, you wouldn’t want to risk getting it expired before your trip.

5. Can I extend my stay in China?

Yes! You can visit a local public security office before your visa expires to let them know that you’d like to get an extension for your stay.

Please note that there’s no guarantee that your request may be granted and also, do not overstay in the country as it is punishable by law.

6. Can I work using my Chinese Tourist (L) visa?

Not! We all know how strict China can be with their rules and regulations. If you’re interested in working in China, there’s an appropriate visa available in the country which you must apply for.

7. Should I get travel or medical insurance upon visiting China?

The government suggests that you do, just in case you’ll need it. One of China’s problems is the typhoon season as it’s conveniently located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. You’ll never know if you’ll need it.

8. Will I need a translator when in China?

According to some accounts, you will not have trouble finding people who speak English while you’re there, contrary to popular belief. However, if you go to the countryside, there might be a possibility that some people might not understand you.

In this case, it’s handy to download a translator on your phone just to make sure you can communicate the basics with the locals.

9. Can I use my local currency when paying in China? Can I use my credit card?

Foreign currency is not readily accepted as a method of payment, especially in local stores, tourist sites, etc. You can have your money exchanged at foreign exchange counters or banks. You may also use ATMs when you arrive at the airport.

As for credit cards, you may use them to pay major establishments in the cities but it might be hard to use them (or you might not even be able to use them at all!) in the rural areas.

10. How do I go around?

Since most roads in China have already improved and it’s a steadily growing country, you’ll find different methods of transportation while you’re there. Taxis, buses, subway… you name it!

11. Is it easy to get WiFi access in China? Can I use my mobile phone while in China?

The Internet is available anywhere in China. However, some major sites like Facebook and Google are banned and can only be accessed through VPNs. 

As for your mobile phone, you may use it after it’s unlocked by your carrier. You may also opt to buy a SIM card while you’re there, but you will need to present your passport when doing so.

12. Is China safe for tourists?

While you have to always be vigilant as to when you’re in any other country, China is a pretty safe destination for tourists.

There is, however, a travel advisory released by the UK Government regarding the rising air pollution index levels in China. It’s always best to check this information in real-time to avoid any health problems that might be caused by the level of pollution in the air.

13. Can I visit Hong Kong or Macau while I’m in China with the same visa?

No. This already counts as entering another country so unless you’re eligible to enter these two nations without a visa or by getting a visa on arrival, you have to apply for a separate one.

14. Where should I go while in China?

That’s a tough question because honestly, China’s so big and so full of things to do or sights to see that we might even run out of time to discuss them! 

For starters, it’s recommended that you visit major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Here, you will find the famous historical spots like the Forbidden City (Beijing) which used to house Chinese royals before they were overthrown by the Republic in 1911.

Beijing also has other world-famous structures like the Great Wall of China (which is a must when you visit China), Tiananmen Square, and the Bird’s Nest which was built for the Olympics. All these attractions have modern buildings and colorful billboards of Beijing as its background, making such a contrasting yet interesting view of the city.

As for Shanghai, the biggest city in China, you’ll be greeted by the sight of towering skyscrapers and brightly-lit streets. Here, you’ll find ancient temples and modern museums standing almost side-by-side.

During the night, you can go and take a trip onboard the Bund underwater train or walk around Nanjing Road to do some shopping. Shanghai is also home to a Disneyland Park if you’re up for some adventure.

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• Visa Application Procedure and Fee
• 10-Year Visa

10-Year China Visa for UK Citizens

How long can i stay in china on a 10-year visa, who are eligible for a 10-year china visa.

The 10-year Tourist (L), Business (M), or Private Visit (S2) visa is available for all UK citizens provided that they have been granted a 5-year China visa before. Therefore, for many applicants, actually the first step is to get a 5-year China visa by meeting either of the following requirements: 1. The applicant has been granted two or more 2-year China visas by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in UK. 2. The applicant has been granted one China visa with the validity of two or more years, and has visited China for at least three times each year in the past two years. However, British spouses and children of Chinese citizens, and spouses and children of British Chinese, with the invitation from their Chinese family members can directly apply for a 10-year Q2 visa once they meet the above requirements.  

What documents do I need to prepare?

1. A valid passport with the remaining validity of at least six months. It means your passport may expire during the validity of your 10-year China visa. In such a case, you can travel with both passports to enter China, saving the trouble of applying for a new visa. 2. A printed application form which has been completed online on the website of the CVASC center. 3. Documents justifying for your reasons for the travel, for instance, round-trip tickets and hotel booking for tourism purpose, an invitation letter from your business partner in China for commercial purpose…  

How to apply for 10-year China visa in UK?

1. Navigate to the website of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). On the homepage, select the CVASC in London, Manchester, Edinburgh or Belfast according to their service areas. 2. Complete the Chinese Visa Application Form on the website of the respective CVASC office. Then print it out and sign on it. 3. Collect other documents such as your passport, round-trip tickets, hotel bookings… 4. Submit your application to the CVASC on the appointed date and pay the visa fee. 6. Collect your visa on the date shown on your pick-up slip.  

How much does a 10-year China visa for UK citizens cost?

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Thu 26 Sept 2024

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China tourist visa: New rules explained as China’s borders open to foreign travellers

The country is processing visas for foreign tourists after three years of border restrictions.

China is reopening to foreign holidaymakers after three years of border restrictions . The country that retreated from its long-standing zero- Covid policy in December and declared victory over the virus in February.

As of Wednesday 15 March, it is now issuing visas for international tourists , the Chinese Government has announced.

There were tens of millions of international visitor arrivals to China in 2019.

What are the new visa rules?

Starting from Wednesday 15 March, foreign offices can once again process applications for Chinese visas and valid visas that were issued before 28 March 2020 can be used for travel to the country.

Additionally, parts of China that did not require visa before the pandemic will return to visa-free entry.

Beijing will also lift rules for other locations, including Hainan island cruise ships which pass through Shanghai ports.

British nationals require a visa to enter mainland China, including Hainan Island, but not for travel to Hong Kong or Macao.

Do travellers need to take a Covid test?

All travellers need a negative PCR test result to enter China, according to the UK Foreign Office advice.

The negative PCR test must be taken within 48 hours of boarding a flight to China and must be submitted by filling in the health declaration form via the China Customs website, or through the China Customs app or a WeChat account. Those who have a positive test result will not be permitted to board a flight to China.

Travellers entering China who display symptoms of fever, or who have an abnormal health declaration, may be asked to undertake an antigen test on arrival.

Those who test positive will be released to self-quarantine if symptoms are mild, or recommended to go to a medical institution for diagnosis and treatment if symptoms are more severe.

People travelling with a child who is aged five or under must apply for a Customs Code Health Declaration Code for the child.

Are there rules for return to the UK?

Yes, the UK Government requires passengers aged 12 or older travelling from mainland China to England to take a pre-departure Covid test.

The test must be taken no more than two days before travel and passengers need to show evidence of the test result before leaving mainland China for England. This will be checked by the airline and Border Force may require travellers to show this on arrival to England.

The rule applies to all direct and indirect flights from mainland China. It does not apply to those travelling directly to England from Hong Kong and Macao.

The test can be a lateral flow or a PCR.

Since 8 January, some passengers have been asked to take part in a voluntary test on arrival in England as the UK Government monitors for potential new Covid variants. This only applies to passengers aged 18 or over who are travelling from mainland China and arriving at Heathrow Airport .

Are tour operators restarting China holidays?

Yes, specialist tour operators such as Wendy Wu are preparing to resume group tours in China.

Wendy Wu, founder of Wendy Wu Tours, said: “This is clearly a major milestone for tourism, and undoubtedly one of the most eagerly anticipated reopenings for Asia tourism following the pandemic.”

Wu added:  “Touring in China is going to be a whole new experience.

“The country has had three years without tourism to rejuvenate and refresh and so as we begin preparations to return with UK tourists, China is eagerly looking forward to welcoming visitors again, with a touring experience that promises to be as fresh and captivating, as one resembling 20 years ago.”

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