china tourist visa application form pdf

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Updated and Downloadable Visa Application Forms of China 2024/2025

Notice on Latest Visa and Entry Policies for Foreigners Entering China - Updated on March 7, 2024 :

1. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is newly available for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Read more »

2. Booking of flights and hotels, China itineraries and invitation letters are not required for application of Chinese Tourist Visa for U.S.nationals.

3. 15 Days Visa Exemption Policy is now available for other 6 countries including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. Read more »

4. Appointment is not required for visa application in many embassies and consulates.

5. Starting from 00:00 on November 1, 2023, individuals entering or exiting the country are exempt from filling out the "People's Republic of China Health Declaration Card for Entry/Exit."

6. Norway has become the 54th country whose passport holders can transit without visa up to 72/144 hours in China.

7. Starting from August 30, 2023, individuals traveling to China will no longer be required to undergo pre-entry COVID-19 nucleic acid or antigen testing.

8. U.S. citizens holding multi-year multiple-entry visas issued before March 28, 2020, whose visas temporarily lost entry functionality between March 28, 2020, and March 14, 2023, due to the pandemic, are eligible to apply for compensation. Those who choose to apply for compensation will receive a free 3-year multiple-entry visa. Those who choose to waive the compensation can apply for a new 10-year multiple-entry visa at the regular fee.

China Discovery will keep focusing on the updates of the latest Chinese visa and entry policy! You can also call +86 010 12367 (Official telephone number of China National Immigration Administration) to check further information. Welcome to join in our Facebook Groups to catch up with the latest news!

Invitation letter is a vital document for Chinese visa application. If you travel with us, we will not only create a valuable tour for you, but also provide you an invitation letter if you request, which will help you obtain your visa successfully. Start customizing your tour in China now!

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

A China Visa Application Form is an essential requirement for your China Visa Application together with your valid original passport and other necessary supporting documents. All applicants are required to complete the latest China Visa Application Form online, whether you submit application direct to Chinese Embassy or Consulate General, or though China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). To ensure the application proceeds normally, there are specific requirements for the form applicants should follow.

Meanwhile, visitors from certain countries and qualified for China Visa Waiver Policy can enter and visit China without visa application, but still need to go through custom clearance procedures according to relevant regulations.

China Visa Application Form

China Visa Application Form is the newest version, which is accepted by Chinese Embassy and Consulate General only. Each applicant have to complete the online Visa Application Form of China correctly and truthfully. If the Chinese Embassy and Consulates host online application submission & appointment booking system, or you submit all documents through China Visa Application Service Center, an appointment is required before submission in some countries. (Please note that a completed application form Does Not guarantee you will be granted a Chinese Visa.)

First Page of China Visa Application Form

Note: The above is only one page of the form.

Where to Download China Application Form?

For individual applicants, there are two ways to download the latest China Visa Application Form: from the official website of the Chinese Embassy and Consulates (in PDF/DOC), and from the recognized site of China Visa Application Service Center after you complete the form online. Hand written application form and old versions are NOT accepted.

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What information is needed for china visa application form.

Applicants must offer all information required in the application form. The content of the application form concerns Personal Information (the name, date & place of birth, nationality, gender, marital status, passport details), and other information about the application, your work, education, family, current travel & previous travel, email and communication address and other background information. The last section is to review the above information and make a declaration.

How to Fill in China Visa Application Form

According to the country where you reside in, citizens can apply for China Visa at visa section of Chinese Embassies and Consulates, or through China Visa Application Service Center.

● Submission to China Visa Application Service Center

If you submit through CVASC, online E-application Form submission and online appointment are required. Below are 5 major steps helps you easily and efficiently to finish the visa form:

1. Log on to the http://www.visaforchina.org , choose a service center located in your residence country and region, click the “Step by Step Guidance” to know documents you should prepare, and go to “Quick Access” to create a new application form.

2. Fill in the all sections of the form clearly, completely and truly, and upload a qualified photo , save and submit the form, keep your application number. If the form is completed by another person/agent on behalf of applicant, there is extra part to fill in. Bring 2 right photos to service center if you upload unsuccessfully.

3. Download and Print out the completed form, sign on the 1st and 8th page and write down the date.

4. Enter “Quick Access - Appointment”, use saved application number to book an appointment online, and download the confirmation email after receiving it. (Walk in submission is not accepted unless you meet requirements of recognized exceptions.)

5. Bring the downloaded China Visa Application Form, confirmation letter and all required documents to visit the service center at appointed time.

● Submission to the Chinese Embassy and Consulate General

If you apply for China Visa at visa office of Chinese Embassy and Consulate General directly, you also need to complete the online application form on the official website of the authority - https://cova.mfa.gov.cn, and print out the application form, confirmation page, and related personal forms. And submit your passport, signed forms mentioned above, and other supporting documents straightforward to the Chinese Embassy and Consulate.

Special Requirements of China Visa Application Form

There are some basic rules each applicant should know before filling in the form:

(1) each independent applicant are required to fill in a China Visa Application Form, including a child. If the children are under 18, the parents or lawful guardian must declare and sign on the form with related proof documents.

(2) the form should be filled in completely, clearly and truthfully, carefully reviewed and checked before submission and printed out. Once is submitted, it can not be modified. Any false, misleading or incomplete information may result in denial of the visa or refusal of entry into China.

(3) fill the form without any blank, if some items do not apply to you, type N/A or None in the corresponding spaces.

(4) try to avoid the abbreviation unless it is recognized, like IBM.

(5) with a total page of 4, you may print the form double-sided after completed all the information.

FAQs and Useful Tips of China Visa Application Form

☞ What to do if I forget to print out my online application form?

Once you start a visa application form online, there will be a Application ID created. Remember to write down or print the numbers, so you can retrieve you completed application form, download and print it and make an appointment online.

☞ Where to download Hong Kong & Macau Visa Application Form?

If you are not exempted from Hong Kong/Macau Visa, you can apply for visa/entry permit to Hong Kong/Macau directly from the Chinese Embassy in person, or from the local HK/Macau Immigration Department by post. You can fill in the form, download and print it for submission. (Check Hong Kong Visa , Macau Visa to find out if you need to apply for a visa for Hong Kong or Macau SARs).

For Hong Kong: https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/forms/hk-visas/visit-transit.html;

For Macau: http://www.fsm.gov.mo/psp/eng/EDoN.html#EDoN_VII

☞ What should know about the online appointment?

To ensure your submission goes smoothly at CVASC, each applicant should book an appointment, make it early in peak business season. You can cancel, reschedule the appointment online if you can’t attend.

How to Get a Visa for China - Chinese Visa Application Guide

❶ find out what kind of visa you need.

Read different types of Chinese Visa to figure out which kind of visa you should apply for. Determine if you are suitable applicants for each visa type, by judging your purpose of visiting is for travel, business, work, transit, family reunion and etc or not. China Tourist Visa (L Visa) is for visitor going to China for tourism, F Visa is for exchanges, study tour, Business Visa (M Visa) is for commercial and trade, Student Visa (X Visa) is for studying in China. More Chinese Visa Types >>

❷ Apply for a Chinese Visa

According to various visa policy, applicants meet relevant requirements can submit China Visa application at Chinese Embassy, Diplomatic and Consular Missions or special ports of entry. You need to prepare and submit your valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and blank pages, copy of passport’s first page, completed visa application form pasted with 2 recent photos (color photo with white background, taken within past 6 months, size: 48mmx33mm), sufficient visa fee and service charge and other supporting documents.

❸ Collect & check your China visa

The processing time differs from visa types. Normally, it takes about 4 to 5 business days for applicant to get a China Visa, and the accurate collection date will be noted on the pick-up slip. If you submit China Tourist Visa (L Visa) on Monday, you can pick up on Thursday. Check carefully the visa type, duration of stay, number of entries if they are issued correctly or not, after getting your passport back. Double check the validity when you plan to enter China, otherwise you will be denied entry.

Travel China Visa Free with China Discovery

China Discovery is a professional and experienced travel companion who offers high-value and worry-free tours for you. To fulfill your dream tour to China, we not only design ideal itinerary covering sightseeing, dining, transfer and hotel, but also will provide you useful Invitation Letter to help you obtain Chinese Visa, even customize a China Visa-free Tour in Beijing , Shanghai , Xian , Chengdu , Hangzhou and more available destinations if you meet relevant visa requirements.

Popular China Visa-free Tours:

• ● 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Great Wall Hiking
• ● 5 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Real Hutong Life
• ● 3 Days Shanghai Past and Present Contrast Tour
• ● 3 Days Shanghai Highlights & Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour
• ● 2 Days Xian City Break
• ● 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
• ● 2 Days Guilin Ideal Li River Cruise with Yangshuo Essence
• ● 3 Days Classic Guilin Tour - Guilin Brief Vacation
• ● 3 Days Chengdu City Break including Panda Volunteering
• ● 3 Days Chengdu Highlights Tour
• ● 1 Day Valuable Hong Kong Tour
• ● 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour

Top China Visa-Free Cities

Introduction to China Visa

• Ultimate China Visa Guide
• Do I Neee A Visa for China
• How to Read China Visa
• Single, Double, Multiple Entry Visa
• China Tourist Visa

China Visa Application

• How to Apply for China Visa
• China Visa Requirements
• Visa Invitation Letter
• China Visa Application Online
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• How Much is A China Visa
• Apply China Visa in HK
• China Visa Renewal & Extension
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China Visa Exemptions

• 15 China Visa Free Policies
• 144-hour Visa Free in China
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• 53 Visa Free Transit Countries
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• Major Visa Free Cities & Regions

Recommended Tours

Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

4 Days Guilin Highlights Tour (Li River, Yangshuo & Longji Terraces)

Guilin / Yangshuo / Longsheng

3 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with Water Town

3 Days Beijing Essential Short Stay Tour (Visa Free)

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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Following are latest questions and answers from our webusers and customers. You can learn many useful information from the discussion and cases. You can also join in the discussions or ask your own question. Our experts will help you ASAP.

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Where do you plan to apply for Chinese visa?

Copyright©1998-2014, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China   

To   further  facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States, starting from January 1, 2024, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in the U nited States  will simplify application documents   required for tourist  visa   (L-visa) . Tourist visa applicant s   within  the U nited States  will no longer be required to submit round-trip air ticket   booking record , proof of hotel reservation , itinerary or invitation letter.   Since visa applications are processed on a case-by-case basis, please refer to the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in the U nited States for specifics.

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

From December 1st, 2023 to November 30th, 2024, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Singapore, and Malaysia can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa for travel, business, transit, or visiting friends and family.

Starting March 14th, travelers from Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland can also enjoy this visa-free entry.

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 the 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 visa. 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 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 price 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.

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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 China Visa in Hong Kong

If you are already in Hong Kong and want to visit 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 suggestion on How to Plan Your China Tour .

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1. Visa Types

2. Basic Documents

1) Visa Application Form  and Confirmation Form of Online Visa Application .  Complete China Visa Application Form through China Online Visa Application website ( https://cova.mfa.gov.cn ). For underage applicants, the forms can be filled by parents on behalf of the children.

2)  Passport . Original passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages, and a photocopy of bio-data page of the passport.

3)  Photo . Must be a recent coloured ID photo, facing forward and with white coloured background, and bareheaded.

4)  Proof of legal stay or residence status  (applicable to non-Samoa passport holders applying for Chinese visa in Samoa).

5)  Original  and  photocopy of previous Chinese passport   and photocopy of naturalization certificate   (applicable to applicant who was of Chinese nationality and this is the first time to apply for Chinese visa after naturalization in a foreign country). If the name on the current passport differs from that on the previous one, an official document of name change is required.

6) For children born in Samoa with Samoa Citizenship and Chinese descent applying for Chinese visa for the first time, applicants shall also submit the original and photocopy of birth certificate, the photocopy of parents’ passports and permanent residence permits.

※Paper copies of all application documents should be submitted to the Chinese Embassy in Samoa.

3. Supporting Documents Based on Visa Category and Purposes of Travel

A letter of guarantee issued by a foreign transport company or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity in China.

The original and photocopy of the Confirmation Form for Foreigners Permanent Residence Status issued by the Ministry of Public Security of China.

An invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. The invitation should contain:

1) Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2) Information on the planned visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, financial source for expenditures).

3) Information on the inviting entity or individual (name, contact telephone number, address, official stamp, a signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual).

An onward air (train or ship) ticket with confirmed date to the destination country or region.

J1 /J2 -Visa  should refer to the requirements of the competent authority.

Documents showing the itinerary including air ticket booking record (round trip) and proof of a hotel reservation, etc. or an invitation letter issued by a relevant entity or individual in China. For invitation letters issued by individual, photocopies of Chinese ID (front and back) of the inviting person must be included. The invitation letter should contain:

2) Information on the planned visit (arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, etc.).

Documents on the commercial activity issued by a trade partner in China, or trade fair invitation or other invitation letters issued by a relevant entity. The invitation letter should contain:

2) Information on the planned visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity, financial source for expenditures).

For family reunion, the following documents are required:

(1) An invitation letter issued by a Chinese citizen or a foreign citizen with Chinese permanent residence permit who lives in China. The invitation letter should contain:

1)Information of the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, intended arrival date, place(s) of intended residence, intended duration of residence, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address,  a signature of the inviting individual, etc.).

(2) Photocopies of both sides of Chinese ID of the inviting individual or foreign passport and permanent residence permit.

(3) Original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of family members between the applicant and inviting individual.

"Family members" refers to spouses, parents, parents-in-law, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons and granddaughters.

For foster care, the following documents are required:

(1) Foster entrustment notarisation issued by Chinese Embassies/Consulates General in foreign countries or Foster Care Power of Attorney notarized and authenticated in the country of residence or in China.

(2) Original and photocopy of the consignor's passport(s), as well as the original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship between parents or guardians and children.

(3) A letter of consent on foster care issued by the trustee living in China who has agreed to provide foster care services and a photocopy of the ID of the trustee.

(4) A photocopy of the certificate indicating the permanent residence status abroad of the parent(s) when the child was born, provided that either or both parents of the child are Chinese citizens.

(1) An invitation letter issued by a Chinese citizen or a foreign citizen with a Chinese permanent residence permit who lives in China. The invitation letter should contain:

1)Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.).

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact number, address, signature etc.).

(2) Photocopies of both sides of Chinese ID or foreign passport and permanent residence permit of the inviting individual.

A photocopy of Confirmation Letter for High Level Foreign Talents.

(1) An invitation letter from the inviting individual (a foreigner who stays or resides in China for work or studies) which contains:

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, intended arrival date, place(s) of intended residence, intended duration of residence, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures, etc.).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address, signature, etc.).

(2) A photocopy of the inviting individual's passport and residence permit

(3) Original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of immediate family members between applicants and inviting individual.

"Immediate family members" refers to spouses, parents, sons or daughters under the age of 18 and parents-in-law.

For visiting family members for a short period , the following documents are required:

(1) An invitation letter from the inviting individual (a foreigner who stays or resides in China for work or studies) which contains:

2)Information on the visit (the purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures, etc.).

3)Information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address, signature, etc.)

(2) A photocopy of the inviting individual's passport and residence permit.

(3) Photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of family members between the applicant and the inviting individual.

"Family members" refers to spouses, parents, parents-in-law, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters.

For private affairs, documentation identifying the nature of the private affairs  should be provided as required by the consular officer.

1) Original and photocopy of the Admission Letter issued by a school or other entities in China.

2) Original and photocopy of "Visa Application for Study in China" (Form JW201 or Form JW202).

Original and photocopy of Admission Notice issued by a school or other entities in China.

Notice for the Work Permit for Foreigners

4 . Special Reminder

(1) The invitation letter may be in the form of fax, photocopy or computer printout, but the consular officer may require the applicant to submit the original of the invitation letter.

(2) If necessary, the consular officer may require the applicant to provide other proof documents or supplementary materials, or require an interview with the applicant.

(3) The consular officer will decide on whether or not to issue the visa and on its validity, duration of stay and number of entries in light of specific conditions of the applicant.

• How to Apply
• In Your Country
• In a Third Country
• In Hong Kong
• Renewal & Extension
• Application Requirements
• China Visa Fees
• Mail Service
• Visa Rejected Reasons
• Holiday Schedule of PRC Embassies /Consulates
• Entries /Validity /Duration
• 10-year China Visa
• Tourist (L)
• Business (M)
• 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
• Hong Kong Visa Policy
• Macau Visa Policy
• Chinese Residence Permit

8 Tips for Filling Out Chinese Visa Application Form

1. the application form must be filled out online..

Applicants need to fill out the application form on China Online Visa Application System , and then print it out. Double-sided printouts will not be accepted. Note that the applicants must sign it. Remember to select the right country and city where Chinese Embassies, Consulates, or China Visa Application Centers (CVASC) which hold consular jurisdiction over your residence.   

2. Major Purpose of Visit

Section 2.1A Types of visa and major purpose of your visit to China: Select the most suitable item and make sure it matches with your application documents. If your travel is for multiple purposes, just choose one major purpose.  

3. Duration of Stay

Section 2.2B Maximum duration of longest stay (days): For L, M, and F visas, the duration of stay is normally 30-60 days. For S2 and Q2 visa, it ranges from 30 to 120 days. Z, X, Q1, and S1 visas may allow a longer stay duration. Fill in the box according to your actual need.  

4. Intended Number of Entries

Section 2.2C Intended number of entries: Most applicants only need one entry valid for 3 months. Note that all Z, X1, S1, and Q1 visas are only issued as single entry. If you apply for an L, F, M, X2, S2, or Q2 visa, you may choose single-entry, double-entry, or multiple entries. Choose the one that best meets your needs. The final decision is left to the consular officer's discretion. Usually, the more entries, the higher the visa fee.  

5. Current Occupation

Section 3.1A Current Occupation & Section 3.3 Work experience: If you choose "Self-employed", do not leave Section 3.3 blank. You need to complete this section with the name of your business and specify the nature of it. If you are unemployed at present, provide information on your previous employer. If you are a housewife, you can fill in the box in Section 3.3 with None (Housewife).  

6. Intended Date of Arrival in China

Section 6.1A Intended date of arrival: Make sure that the date is not earlier than the date you are likely to receive the visa. If your flight itinerary will be submitted as the application document, ensure the date is consistent with it.  

7. Destinations

Section 6.1J, 6.1K, 6.1M, 6.1L, 6.1N: In this section, do not mention travel to Tibet and Xinjiang although you may go there. If you apply for a tourist visa , you need to provide addresses of hotels including provinces, cities, and streets. For this reason, you are advised to book refundable hotel rooms in advance. After you get the visa, it’s fine to change your itinerary and cancel the bookings.  

8. Other Information

In section 8 which acts as background check, you need to answer truthfully the questions regarding  overstaying , China visa rejection history, criminal records, diseases, etc. Honesty is important in answering these questions; otherwise you may encounter problems in the application process.

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*To  apply for the emergency humanitarian visa for the purpose of arranging funeral matters or visiting a family member in critical medical conditions in China, applicants shall submit the identity document of the deceased or critically ill patient (such as a Chinese identity card or a foreign passport), a death certificate or a medical certificate of the patient issued by the hospital, proof of kinship, and other necessary documents as required.

III.  Application Procedures:

To apply for the above visas, applicants are required to fill in the online application form and make an appointment on the  Chinese Visa Application Service Centre  (CVASC) website before submitting applications in person on the date of the appointment and having their  ten fingers ’ fingerprints collected. Children under the age of 14 and adults above the age of 70 are not required to go to the  CVASC  for such biometric information collection. Please contact the CVASC for specific procedures, visa application requirements, processing time and fees.

IV.  Diplomatic, service or courtesy visa applicants shall also submit applications at the CVASC. The applicants are not required to pre-book time slots, but shall complete and print out the online application forms in advance.

V.  Foreign nationals who apply for visas for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or the Macao Special Administrative Region can submit applications to the  consular section of the Chinese Embassy/Consulates in the UK during  business hours with no need for pre-booked appointments.

VI.  Visa applications for visiting purposes which are not included above will not be accepted at the moment.

VII.  Holder of a valid Chinese residence permit, or valid permanent documents and APEC Business Travel Cards ( excluding Virtual ABTC) does not need to apply for a new visa for entry into China .

Complete and detailed procedures and requirements for visa application.

Fill in online form/ Tracking

• About the Visa Centre
• Office Hours & Location
• Legal Information
• Help by E-MAIL
• Suggestions and Complaints
• 2024/03/18 Notice on Adjusting Fee Collection Procedures
• 2020/03/23 Holiday Notice（Canberra Day and Easter）
• 2023/12/22 Notice on Exempting Fingerprints Collection for Certain Types of Visa Application
• 2023/10/31 Notice on Termination of Authentication Service
• 2024/03/06 The Embassy and Consulates of China in Australia to Reduce Regular Visa Fees
• 2023/12/21 Notice on Cancellation of Visa Application Appointments

Important Notice

• Due to the system upgrade, the website of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Canberra will be   switched to a new website at 20:00 on March 26 (Tuesday) , when the visa application form needs to be completed and submitted on the new website in order to submit the visa application smoothly.
• According to relevant requirement, Chinese Visa Application Service Center (Canberra) will commence the Pre-payment model from March 27th 2024 (Wednesday) . Applicants will be required to pay the full fee to the visa application center at the time of submitting visa applications. Service Fee will not be refunded if the visa application is declined, rejected or withdrawn.
• Starting from 20 th Nov, 2023 , Chinese Visa Application Service Center (Canberra) will accept visa applications without appointment .

We only accept visa applications from Australian citizens residing in the ACT or the Northern Territory, citizens of other countries staying in the ACT or the Northern Territory with appropriate legal status. 

Email: [email protected]

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

• Information of the Embassy
• Sino-Philippine Relations
• Consular Services

（ As of 8  January   2023）

The latest visa application requirements of the Embassy of the People ’ s Republic of China in the Philippines are as follows:

1. Application Procedures

① O nline application at https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn .  C onfirmation page and full form   (8 pages in total)  must be printed with signature on  the confirmation page and item 9 of the form.

②   A ppointment  at https://avas.mfa.gov.cn   for o rdinary passport holders should be made before Visa Application Submission .   

Diplomatic passport holders, or applicants eligible for Diplomatic, Service and Courtesy visas   may  submit visa application directly to the Embassy   (no need for appointment).

③   Submi ssion: D ocuments shall be submitted to the Embassy in full and at the appointment time.

2.  D ocuments required

① Visa Application Form and the confirmation page .

②  P assport and a photocopy of the data page.

③ One ID  photo that is: in color, taken within the last 6 months, in full-face view directly facing the camera, in front of a plain white or off-white background, sized 48mm x 33mm.

④ Proof of legal stay or residence status in   the Philippines   (applicable to applicants  from third countries ) .

⑤ Photocopy of previous Chinese passports or previous Chinese visas (applicable to foreign citizens   who used to have  Chinese citizens hip ).

⑥ A dditional  documents   required   as follows  according to v isa categories accepted :

     3.  Notes

Visa applications related to travel  and  medical treatment are still suspended currently.

4. Contact us

Address of  the   Consular Section:   2nd Floor, the World Center, 330 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Metro Manila

Email  address   for   Chinese Visa\Hong Kong visa\Legalization ： [email protected]

Tel:  0927-5029218 (English&Tagalog, 9AM-11AM&2PM-4PM, Monday to Friday)

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Verification Letter of Invitation Requirement in the China Visa Process: A Brief Guide

A Verification Letter of Invitation is required when certain foreigners apply for M/F visas to China such as those from the Middle East. The inviting Chinese company has to ensure the invitees conduct themselves appropriately in China and depart on time as scheduled.

In light of recent developments, the application procedures for business visas to China have undergone substantial simplification. Most foreigners can now apply for an M/F visa using only the invitation letter issued by a Chinese company. Additionally, citizens of certain countries are eligible to enter China without a visa and stay for up to 144 hours or even 15 days .

However, it’s important to note that some applicants may still need to apply for a “Verification Letter of Invitation (邀请核实单)” when applying for an M/F visa to China. In this article, we will introduce what a Verification Letter of Invitation is, who needs to apply for it, and the potential risks.

Wha t is a  Verification Letter for Invitation ?

A Verification Letter for Invitation is an official document issued by the local Foreign Affairs Office to verify the authenticity of an invitation extended to a foreigner. Among others, the foreign applicant should possess legit identification; the party issuing the invitation letter must be legitimate, either a public unit or a company; and the reasons for the visit should fall within permissible scope. The allowable purposes of the visit include:

• For exchange, visit, investigation(F visa)
• For commercial and trade activities (M visa)

It’s important to note that in most cases, the invitation letter provided by the inviting unit (whether a public entity or a company) is sufficient for M/F visa applications. The Verification Letter for Invitation is only required when the Chinese embassies or consulates in certain countries specifically ask for the document.

Meanwhile, it is also essential to note that obtaining a Verification Letter for Invitation does not guarantee visa approval. The final decision on granting a visa rests with the Chinese embassy abroad, based on the specific circumstances of the applicant.

Difference from the PU/TE letter

The PU/TE letter is also a type of official verification letter that foreigners need to receive before applying for several types of visas. With the PU letter, foreigners could apply Chinese business visa (M visa). With the TE letter, foreigners could apply China visitor visa (F visa). However, these two types of verification letters were mostly applicable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the pandemic control concerns, PU/TE letter issuance was very strict, for which the company needed to prove the project was very urgent and important or foreign invitees would make big contribution to the destination city.

Now, the Verification Letter of Invitation is the most common document to be submitted where a verification letter is required.

Who needs to apply for the Verification Letter for Invitation?

Based on current information, foreign applicants in Sri Lanka and most Middle East countries – such as Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, Pakistan, and so on – need to submit a Verification Letter for Invitation when they apply for a visa to China.

That said, a Verification Letter for Invitation might not be required in a few Middle East countries, such as Saudi Arabia. Therefore, we suggest that foreign applicants consult with their the local Chinese embassy or consulate to confirm in advance.

How to apply for the V erification L etter for Invitation ?

The Verification Letter for Invitation needs to be applied for by the inviting Chinese company (inviter) at the local Foreign Affairs Office. The detailed procedures may vary slightly from city to city. But in general, the application may follow the below process:

Step 1: Account setup

The inviting Chinese company must open an online account on the official website of the Foreign Affairs Office. To open the account, the company may need to submit some documents, such as:

• Business License
• ID card or passport of legal representatives
• Company tax payment certificate
• Other required documents

Step 2: Prepare and submit application documents

Once the inviting Chinese company has an account, it can provide information about the invitee and submit relevant documents. The required documents usually include:

• Application Form for Inviting Foreigners to China
• Copy of the invited person’s valid passport (with a validity period of at least six months)
• Invitation Letter issued by the inviting organization
• Guarantee Letter issued by the inviting organization
• Dispatch Letter from the invitee’s current employer
• Government approval document, screenshot of exhibition registration, and relevant documents such as exhibition contracts and booth layouts (for those attending international conferences, exhibitions, or large-scale events in China)

Each document has specific requirements. The reviewing department will evaluate the situation and may request additional documents from the applicant company. Normally, the application process takes 4-5 working days, unless supplementary documents are needed. Once approved, the applicant company can download an Invitation Verification Letter from the online system. The application is free of charge.

If supplementary documents are required or if the submitted documents have deficiencies, the application processing time may be significantly extended. Foreign applicants are advised to allocate sufficient time for the application process to avoid any delays in their travel itinerary

Potential risks for the inviting company

As above mentioned, the Chinese company acting as the inviter for the Verification Letter of Invitation must issue a Guarantee Letter. The Guarantee Letter serves as a commitment that all submitted documents are accurate and authentic. Additionally, the company pledges to supervise and encourage the foreign invitee to adhere to Chinese laws and regulations and depart from China as scheduled.

If the invitee fails to leave China on time or engages in any illegal activities, the company assumes responsibility.

Considering this, companies should exercise caution when inviting foreigners to China. The application for the Verification Letter of Invitation should be grounded in genuine necessity. Additionally, the inviting company must proactively ensure that the invitees conduct themselves appropriately while in China and adhere to departure schedules.

China Briefing is one of five regional Asia Briefing publications, supported by Dezan Shira & Associates . For a complimentary subscription to China Briefing’s content products, please click here .

Dezan Shira & Associates assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing , Tianjin , Dalian , Qingdao , Shanghai , Hangzhou , Ningbo , Suzhou , Guangzhou , Dongguan , Haikou , Zhongshan , Shenzhen , and Hong Kong . We also have offices in Vietnam , Indonesia , Singapore , United States , Germany , Italy , India , and Dubai (UAE) and partner firms assisting foreign investors in The Philippines , Malaysia , Thailand , Bangladesh , and Australia . For assistance in China, please contact the firm at [email protected] or visit our website at www.dezshira.com .

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When to File Your Adjustment of Status Application for Family-Sponsored or Employment-Based Preference Visas: May 2024

Are you seeking to adjust your status and become a U.S. permanent resident under a family-sponsored or employment-based preference immigrant visa? If you have not yet had a relative or employer file an immigrant visa petition on your behalf, please learn more about the Adjustment of Status Filing Process . If you already have a petition filed or approved on your behalf, you may have to wait for an available visa in your category (if applicable) before you can file your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status . This page will help you determine when to file your adjustment of status application.

When to File

Use the Visa Bulletin charts below to determine when to file your adjustment of status application.

To use the charts:

• Find your visa type in the first column (on the left) of the appropriate chart (Family-sponsored or Employment-based).
• Stay in that row and move directly to the right to find the corresponding date under the country of your birth (as listed in the boldface columns across the top).
• If the date on the chart is current (“C”), or your priority date is earlier than the date on the chart, you may file your adjustment of status application, if otherwise eligible to do so.
•  “U” means unauthorized; for example, numbers are not authorized for issuance.

Your priority date is generally the date when your relative or employer properly filed the immigrant visa petition on your behalf with USCIS. If a labor certification is required to be filed with your immigrant visa petition, the priority date is the date the labor certification application was accepted for processing by the Department of Labor.

About the Visa Bulletin

DOS publishes current immigrant visa availability information in a monthly Visa Bulletin . The Visa Bulletin indicates when statutorily limited visas are available for issuance to prospective immigrants based on their individual priority date.

On Nov. 20, 2014, the Secretary of Homeland Security directed USCIS to work with DOS to:

• Ensure that all immigrant visas authorized by Congress are issued to eligible individuals when there is sufficient demand for such visas, and
• Improve the Visa Bulletin system for determining when immigrant visas are available to applicants during the fiscal year.

Additionally, in July 2015, the Administration issued its report on Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century (PDF) . This report included detailed recommendations to revise and update the monthly Visa Bulletin to better estimate immigrant visa availability and provide needed predictability to nonimmigrant workers seeking permanent residency.

USCIS, in coordination with DOS, revised the procedures for determining visa availability for applicants waiting to file for adjustment of status. The revised process will better align with procedures DOS uses for noncitizens who seek to become U.S. permanent residents by applying for immigrant visas at U.S. consulates and embassies abroad.

This revised process will enhance DOS’s ability to more accurately predict overall immigrant visa demand in determining the cut-off dates for the Visa Bulletin. This will help ensure that the maximum number of immigrant visas are issued annually as intended by Congress, and minimize month-to-month fluctuations in Visa Bulletin final action dates. Additional goals are outlined in the White House report, Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century (PDF) .

New Visa Bulletin Charts

The Visa Bulletin will now have two different charts because of the revised procedures. DOS will post two charts per visa preference category in the DOS Visa Bulletin. The charts are:

• Application Final Action Dates (dates when visas may finally be issued); and
• Dates for Filing Applications (earliest dates when applicants may be able to apply).

When USCIS determines there are immigrant visas available for the filing of additional adjustment of status applications, the Dates for Filing Applications chart may be used to determine when to file an adjustment of status application with USCIS. Otherwise, the Application Final Action Dates chart must be used to determine when to file an adjustment of status application with USCIS.

In coordination with the DOS, USCIS will monitor visa numbers each month and post the relevant chart on this page under When to File.

Determining Visa Availability

USCIS considers several factors to determine if there is a greater supply of visas than the demand for those visas. To determine visa availability, USCIS will compare the number of visas available for the remainder of the fiscal year with:

• Documentarily qualified visa applications reported by DOS;
• Pending adjustment of status applications reported by USCIS; and
• Historical drop off rate of applicants for adjustment of status (for example, denials, withdrawals and abandonments)