China Tourist Visa: Complete Guide for 2025-2026

China Tourist Visa: Complete Guide for 2025-2026

Before your private China tours, please do not forget to apply for a Chinese tourist visa to ensure that your trip goes perfectly.

Application Process

Log on to the China Visa Online Form System (COVA) , complete the application form and print the confirmation page. You need to prepare the original passport, valid more than 6 months, and at least 2 blank visa pages. You also need to prepare a copy of the personal information page of your passport along with a recent identification photograph. Furthermore, additional materials, such as proof of residence, may be requested as needed.

Then go to the local Chinese embassy or visa application service center to submit application materials, and keep fingerprints as required. Some people are exempt from fingerprinting, including those under the age of 14 or over the age of 70, and those holding diplomatic passports. The embassy or visa center will review the application materials. And after approval, the applicant can receive the visa in the designated way.

Material Preparation Notes

You need to ensure that the personal information in the application form, plans of your China tour packages are true, accurate and complete. The photos should meet the specifications, and the background color and size should meet the requirements of the diplomatic and consular missions. Depending on the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate, visitors may be required to provide additional materials, such as invitations, itineraries, etc.

Visa Validity

The entry validity period of a visa refers to the validity period of entry of the visa held by the holder. Unless indicated by the issuing authority, the visa shall take effect from the date of issue and expire at 24:00 Beijing time on the date of expiry of entry validity. As long as the number of entry is still left, the holder can travel to China with this visa at any time before the expiration of the entry validity. China tourist visas are generally valid for 1 month or 3 months, and can be up to 6 months or more than 1 year. The stay period of a China tourist visa usually does not exceed 180 days.

Other Notes

It is recommended to learn about the visa policy and application process in advance to avoid delays due to incomplete materials or non-compliance with requirements. Before submitting the application, carefully check the information on the application form to ensure that it is correct. To ensure that your best China tours go perfectly, you must comply with Chinese laws and regulations after entering the country and do not engage in activities inconsistent with your visa type.

It is recommended to apply at least 1 month in advance, peak seasons need to prepare earlier. All documents must be authentic and valid. False materials may lead to visa rejection or affect future applications. The common reasons for refusal are incomplete materials or contradictory information, unreasonable travel arrangements or a bad immigration record.

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