group-2line-73

Blog

Get started

China Tourist Visa Made Easy: Application, Requirements & Processing

Last Update: 06-06-2024

Forbidden City, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
image-3image-1image-2

18+ applied recently

97%

check-1

Approval Rate

⚡Quick Summary

Is a visa required for China?

Is a visa required for China?

Yes, all Indian passport holders need a visa to visit China.

Processing time for China Sticker visa

Processing time for China Sticker visa

5 working days after completing your appointment at the China visa application centre.

China tourist visa fees

China tourist visa fees

INR 5,761/-

China tourist visa validity

China tourist visa validity

90 days

China tourist visa stay duration

China tourist visa stay duration

30 days

How to apply for a China visa

How to apply for a China visa

  1. Apply through Teleport in minutes
  2. Apply through the official government portal.

Documents required for a tourist visa to China

  1. Passport 
  2. 2 Photographs
  3. Vaccination Certificate
  4. Cover Letter
  5. Flight and Hotel Bookings
  6. Bank Statement (last 6 months)
  7. Old Chinese Visa (if any)
  8. See other documents
Does China offer visas on arrival?

Does China offer visas on arrival?

No, China does not offer visas on arrival to Indians. You need to have your visa approved before your departure.

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa to Visit China for Tourism?

Yes, If you're an Indian planning to visit China, you'll need a visa to enter the country. Your China visa comes as a sticker on your passport. The visa allows for a 30-day stay in a 90-day validity period.  Indian nationals can apply for a visa to China through the official government visa portal or Teleport in a few minutes.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. Types of China Visas for Indians
  3. China Visa Application Process for Indians
  4. Documents Required for China Visa for Indians
  5. Chinese Visa Photo Specifications for Indian Applicants
  6. China Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians
  7. When to Start a China Visa Application as an Indian?
  8. China Tourist Visa Fees for Indians
  9. What is the Maximum Duration of Stay Allowed with a China Tourist Visa?
  10. What is the Validity of a China Tourist Visa?
  11. Can I Extend the Validity of My China Visa as an Indian Citizen?
  12. How to Check the Status of a China Tourist Visa for Indians?
  13. Is Travel Insurance Required for a China Tourist Visa?
  14. Why Do China Visa Applications Get Denied in India?
  15. What To Do After Reaching at China Airport?
  16. Conclusion
  17. FAQs

Introduction

Want to explore the magical landscape and vibrant culture of China? This blog is an extensive guide to obtaining your China tourist visa hassle-free, tailored specifically for Indian travellers.


We cover everything from documentation, and application procedures to Chinese tourist visa fees, types, and validity.


Use the navigation bar to jump to the section you need. If you can't find what you're looking for, contact our Teleport visa experts at 073148 52914 or reach out to us on WhatsApp


So, get ready to explore China without any visa hassles!

Does China Provide Visa on Arrival Facility to Indians?

No, China does not offer visas on arrival to Indians. You need to have your visa approved before your departure.

Types of China Visas for Indians

For tourism, 2 types of Chinese visas are primarily available -

Tourism (L): This is a single-entry visa valid for up to 90 days.


Transit (G): Foreign travellers enroute to a third country or region via plane, ship, or train have the option to stay in China for up to 24 hours without a visa. However, to avail of this visa-free entry, it is essential to complete an application for a preliminary entry permit at the Chinese border. Indian nationals must have a valid visa from the destination country and a confirmed connected air/train/ship ticket to the destination country. 


Other types of Chinese visas include visas for commercial trade activities (M), Work visas, Study visas, Journalist visas, Crew Member (C) visas, visa for permanent residence (D), visas for foreigners of high talent or specialists (R), Visa for Exchanges, Visits, Study Tours, or Other Relevant Activities (F), etc.

China Visa Application Process for Indians

Get Your China Visa for Indians via Teleport

Apply for your China visa seamlessly through Teleport with these simple steps:


Step 1: Begin Your Application

Visit the Teleport China visa portal, select 'Start Application,' and choose the appropriate visa type for your travel, whether tourist or business.


Step 2: Input Information and Pay

Enter your passport details, select your payment option, and follow prompts to input personal information.


Step 3: Gather Required Documents

A Teleport Relationship Manager will help you collect all the essential documents for your China tourist visa application. Applicants from southern regions should apply in Mumbai, while those from northern regions of India should apply in Delhi. So, if you're applying for your China tourist visa through the Delhi Consular Office, please courier all necessary documents to the nearest Teleport office. However, if you're applying through the Mumbai Consular Office, you'll need to visit in person to submit your biometrics.


Step 4: Schedule Appointment

For people applying through the Mumbai Consular Office - We will arrange an appointment for you based on availability for you to visit and submit your documents and biometrics physically. For people applying through the Delhi Consular Office - Your Relationship Manager will schedule a China visa appointment at the visa application centre and will also submit the documents on your behalf.


✅ Teleport reviews your application and documents for accuracy before submission.


✅ Receive visa application status updates via WhatsApp and email notifications.


Once the embassy approves your application, Teleport will notify you via WhatsApp and email. You can, then download your visa directly from the Teleport Dashboard.

Apply Through the Official Government Portal

Step 1: Identify Visa Type

Determine the right type of visa for your trip and check your eligibility, required documents, processing time, and fees. 


Step 2: Collect Your Documents

To apply for a China visa, you need specific documents as outlined in the visa criteria. If your documents are not in English, make sure to get them translated by a certified translator. This will speed up your application process. Read below for a comprehensive checklist of all the documents you need for a China visa application.


Step 3: Begin the Application

Visit the Online Application Website and click on the ‘New Application Form’. Proceed to fill out the application form. Completing this process may take some time, but it's important to ensure that all information is filled in accurately. Once you finish filling out the form, review and print the application form.


Application Form for China Visa


Step 4: Book an Appointment

To schedule an appointment at the visa application centre, visit the official visa portal and go to the 'Manage Appointment' section. Enter your appointment/ application number and provide your contact details.


teleport-white-icon

Teleport’s Expert Tip

For a smooth experience at the China Visa Centre, be sure to schedule your appointment before your visit. Plan ahead to secure your preferred time slot and avoid peak hours, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Present your appointment details upon arrival to swiftly receive a queue number, reducing your wait time to just a few minutes.

Note

You can either submit your visa application yourself or authorise a third party to do so on your behalf. The Visa Centre accepts applications from Indian citizens or citizens of other countries legally staying in India. However, if you are not physically in India during the submission, the applicant will not be processed.

Note

If you are not in the country where the visa centre is located, please apply from your usual place of residence. You can also apply upon your return. Application acceptance is limited to those lawfully residing in the country where the visa centre is located.

Residents of consular districts should make their application to the Chinese Consulate-General. The consular districts of the Chinese Consulate-General in Kolkata cover the states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, and Chhattisgarh. Likewise, the Mumbai Consulate-General covers Maharashtra and Karnataka.


The Chinese Consulate-General also operates in Delhi and the one in Chennai, is under construction.


Residents of a particular consular district should apply directly to the specified Chinese Consulate-General. 


The Visa Centre allows visa applications from Indian citizens or citizens of other countries legally staying in India.


Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees

Applicants must make the full payment of fees in cash, which includes both the visa fees and application service fees. Accepted payment methods at the Visa Centre include cash and Demand Draft.


Step 6: Track your Application

To check the status of your China visa application, go to the official visa portal, click on 'History,' and select the 'Status' section. For China visa status check, use your Pickup Form Number and contact number, or your Application Number with your Passport Number.


Step 7: Receive Your Sticker Visa

After submitting your application and settling the visa fees, you can expect to receive your visa in 5 approximately working days. You can choose between picking up your passport directly from the visa application centre or getting your passport couriered to you. The passport comes with a sticker visa attached to it.

Note

To ensure the security of your package, it's essential to complete a courier return form when submitting your application. This form includes vital details such as a return address, valid bank account information, and contact details. Providing accurate information enables our visa centre to select a reliable postal company for the safe delivery of your passport to your specified address.

Here’s what China’s sticker visa looks like- 


China Sticker Visa


The visa number on your China sticker visa means- 


1. Visa Category

2. Visa Validity

3. Date of Issuance

4. Full Name of the Applicant (in a lot of cases it is shown in an abbreviated format)

5. Date of Birth of the Applicant

6. Number of Entries Permitted

7. Duration of Each Stay

8. Place of Issuance

9. Passport Number

Documents Required for China Visa for Indians

Mandatory Documents

Visa Application Form

A completed visa application form with a valid signature.

Original Passport

Original passport valid for at least 6 months, with 2 or more blank visa pages.

Photograph

  • Two recent photographs
  • Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm
  • Matte finish,
  • 80% face visibility,
  • White background,
  • Ears should be visible.

COVID Vaccine Certificate

Provide a vaccination certificate linked with the passport.

Bank Statement

  • Include the original last six-month bank statement with a stamp and signature on each page
  • Minimum recommended bank balance of ₹ 2,00,000.

Cover Letter

Should include details such as the purpose of the visit, travel dates, full name as per passport, work profile, stay details in China, travel logistics, expenses responsibility, home address, and contact number.

Travel Itinerary

Provide day-to-day details of the visit, including arrival and departure dates, places to be visited, and accommodation arrangements.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel confirmation from China on hotel letterhead with a seal and signature.

Flight Reservation

Confirmation of round-trip flight booking.

Old Chinese Visa

Copy of previous visas, if any.

Supporting Documents

If Employed

Employer's NOC letter confirming approved leave on company letterhead with an authorised signature.

If Self-Employed

Business registration proof - Company GST.

If Student

Certification letter from the school (including the company or school name, address, contact person's name, contact telephone number, etc.)

Chinese Visa Photo Specifications for Indian Applicants

  1. Colour and Background: It should be a colour photo with a white background and taken in the last 6 months.
  2. Size and Head Position: The photo size should be 48mmx33mm, with the width of the head between 15mm to 22mm and the height of the head between 28mm to 33mm. The head and face should be clearly visible, with a neutral facial expression, eyes open, lips closed, and ears visible. The head position should not tilt more than 20° left or right, or 25° up or down. Facial features should be clearly visible, with the head centred in the photo. 

Photo Specifications for China Business Visa

  1. Eyewear & Headwear: Eyeglasses are in general allowed, except for thick-rimmed, tinted, or glare glasses. Headwear is permitted only for religious reasons. However, do note that it should not obscure any facial features.
  2. High Condition Photo: The photo should be damage-free. There should be no shadows over the face. 
  3. Printing and Paper: The photo should be printed on glossy finish photo paper and should be free from stains and scratches.

China Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians

It takes 5 working days to process a China tourist visa after your appointment at the China VFS visa application centre is completed. It may take more than 5 days to issue a visa so it is recommended to apply at least 1 month before your planned travel dates, which gives you efficient time to book your appointment and prepare your documents.

When to Start a China Visa Application as an Indian?

It's recommended to initiate the China visa application process well in advance. Since most applications take around 5 days to process, applying at least one month before but not earlier than three months prior to your intended travel date is advisable to ensure sufficient processing time.

China Tourist Visa Fees for Indians

Visa TypeFee TypeFees (in INR)

Tourist Visa (Type - L)

Visa fees

2,900

Tourist Visa (Type - L)

Service fees

1,861

What is the Maximum Duration of Stay Allowed with a China Tourist Visa?

Both the China tourist visa and the China business visa allow you to stay in China for a maximum of 30 days. Nevertheless, in some cases, the embassy may grant visas for shorter durations based on your travel history and application. It's advisable to confirm the precise dates and duration once your visa is granted.

What is the Validity of a China Tourist Visa?

The China visa allows stay in China for 30 days within a 90-day timeframe. The actual validity may vary, as it is subject to the discretion of the embassy. While the embassy can issue it for up to 90 days, it is not guaranteed in every case.

Can I Extend the Validity of My China Visa as an Indian Citizen?

Chinese embassies usually do not extend the validity of an issued visa. You need to file a new visa application every time your visa expires and you need a new visa.  


You can apply to extend the ‘duration of stay’ of your visa at a local public security authority before the visa expires. However, remember that approval is not guaranteed and overstaying can lead to serious punishment under Chinese law.

How to Check the Status of a China Tourist Visa for Indians?

Track Your China Visa Status with Teleport

  • Visit the Teleport Dashboard.
  • Scroll down to the ‘Your Applications’ section.
  • Tap on the Submitted Application to see its present status.

You'll also receive regular updates from us via WhatsApp and email.

You'll also receive regular updates from us via WhatsApp and email.

  • Visit the official visa portal,
  • Click on 'History’
  • Select the 'Status' section 
  • You can check your visa status using either your Pickup Form number and contact number or your Application number along with your Passport number.

China Visa Status Check

Is Travel Insurance Required for a China Tourist Visa?

While obtaining travel insurance is NOT a mandatory requirement for a China visa application we strongly recommend one. Travellers should consider acquiring health insurance coverage from reputable providers such as Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, HDFC Ergo, and others, to be prepared in the face of any adversity.

Why Do China Visa Applications Get Denied in India?

Common reasons for China visa applications being denied in India includes:


  1. Inadequate documentation: Failing to submit all the needed documents can result in a visa denial.
  2. False information: Providing incorrect or false information leads to just to an immediate rejection but also potential future application bans.
  3. Inadequate finances: Inadequate proof of financial stability and inability to cover the cost of your stay can lead to rejection. 
  4. Weak ties to home country: If you cannot establish strong connections to India, such as family, property, or employment, immigration authorities may question your intentions to return, potentially resulting in visa rejection.
teleport-white-icon

Teleport Expert Tip

To avoid visa denial for China, ensure you have solid proof of finances. It's advised to keep at least ₹2,00,000 in your bank account for each person applying. Provide bank records and income tax returns as evidence.

What To Do After Reaching at China Airport?

Once you land at a Chinese airport, you need to follow these steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free exit from the airport:


  1. Keep your travel documents: Important documents include passport, valid China sticker visa, return ticket, and hotel bookings. These documents should be ready for quick verification by immigration authorities.
  2. Unaccompanied minor guidelines: An unaccompanied minor, stay close to your designated flight attendant for safety. 
  3. Understand China’s regulations: If you have items to declare or need baggage inspection, head to the customs area. Read through the Customs Regulations at Chinese Airports to avoid complications.

Conclusion

To secure a visa to China, ensure you select the appropriate visa, meet all the China tourist visa requirements, complete your application timely and accurately, and especially keep Teleport’s expert tips in mind. Begin your visa application early to allow ample time for processing. With a little preparation and knowledge about the visa procedure, you're set for a smooth journey to China.


For a hassle-free China visa application experience, consider applying with Teleport. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the application process, ensuring your submission meets all the necessary criteria.


For any China visa-related queries, feel free to reach out to us at +91 73148 52914 or message us on WhatsApp.


Happy journey!

FAQ

Related Posts
The Great Wall of China
China Visa Appointment Guide: Everything You Need To Know
Longsheng County, China
Step-By-Step Guide: How To Check Your China Visa Status
Pudong in the evening
Your Comprehensive Guide To China Business Visas: Application, Requirements & Fees
logo

Read more on