China Visa Requirements for Indians – Everything You Need Before You Fly

Applying for a China visa for Indians involves specific documents, strict photo guidelines, and biometric submission. With frequent updates in visa rules, choosing the right Chinese visa application service center can save time, avoid rejections, and ensure hassle-free approval.

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Recommendation: Apply 30 working days before travel

China Visa Overview

The China Visa is an official travel authorization that permits foreign nationals to enter mainland China for purposes such as tourism, business, employment, education, transit, or family visits. For Indian travelers, understanding the China visa for Indians is essential, as each visa category comes with specific eligibility rules and documentation requirements.

China offers several visa types, including Tourist (L), Business (M), Work (Z), Student (X1/X2), and Family Visit (S/Q) visas. Each category is designed based on the purpose and duration of stay. Applicants must submit a valid passport, a duly filled visa application form, a recent photograph meeting embassy specifications, confirmed travel plans, and supporting documents such as invitation letters, employment proof, or financial statements.

Most applications are submitted through an authorized service center for Chinese visa applications, where biometric data and document verification are completed. Standard processing typically takes 4 to 7 working days, while express processing may be available in selected cities for urgent travel needs. Depending on the visa type and approval, applicants may receive single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visas, each with different validity periods and permitted lengths of stay.

Key Highlights of the China Visa

Mandatory visa for all Indian travellers visiting China
Quick processing time — typically 4–7 working days
Simple, fully document-based application (no embassy interview)
Stay permitted for up to 30 days, depending on visa type
Multiple-entry options available for business and frequent travellers
Biometric verification required at the Visa Application Centre
Invitation letter needed for business, work, and long-term visas

Why This Matters?

A clear and accurate visa application plays a critical role in getting timely approval for travel to China. For Indian applicants, even small errors—such as missing documents, incorrect personal details, or insufficient financial proof—can lead to delays or outright rejection. Understanding the China visa for Indians process in advance helps reduce verification issues and ensures a smoother experience, especially when applications are reviewed under strict embassy guidelines.

Who Should Apply?

Anyone planning to visit China must apply for the appropriate visa based on the purpose of travel. This includes travelers visiting China for tourism, business meetings, employment, higher education, transit, or family visits. Applicants attending trade fairs, corporate events, conferences, university programs, or professional training or visiting relatives are also required to submit their applications through the designated Chinese visa application service center, along with supporting documents relevant to their travel category.

When to Apply?

It is strongly recommended to apply for your China visa at least 30 days before your intended travel date. Most applications can be submitted up to three months in advance, allowing sufficient time for document preparation, appointment scheduling, and biometric verification. Applying early helps avoid last-minute stress and provides a buffer in case additional documents are requested during processing.

Documents required for China Visa For Indians

Orignal Valid passport from Six Month

Online visa application form

Two colour photo 35mm x 45mm white back ground 80% face

Original updated Bank Statement with minimum closing balance of INR 1,60,000/- (last 6 months);

Income Tax Returns/Form 16 for last 3 years;

Invitation letter from Chinese company letter head with requesting for visa addressing To The Consulate General of China Mumbai with passport details, Company profile, Details of Inviting Company, Who will take care of expenses, Authorize Signatory name and designation with seal and sign on it chines language

ID card copy of person who is signing on invitation letter

Chinese Company License copy

Process Note

1

Collect Documents

2

Get Documents Verified

3

Send via Courier

4

Submission by Authorized Agent

5

Verification Call from Embassy

6

Collection After Approval

7

Return Courier Delivery

1

Collect Documents

2

Get Documents Verified

3

Send via Courier

4

Submission by Authorized Agent

5

Verification Call from Embassy

6

Collection After Approval

7

Return Courier Delivery

Brazil

Australia

Azerbaijan

Canada

Egypt

Visa Fee

Visa fees include verification and processing, with total costs varying based on service levels.

Processing Time

Processing usually takes 3–5 working days, with slight delays possible during busy periods or additional verification.

Visa Validity & Stay Duration

A China e-Visa usually permits a stay of up to 30 days, with validity extending up to 2 years based on approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of China visas available?

China offers multiple visa categories such as Tourist (L), Business (M), Work (Z), Student (X1/X2), Family Visit (S/Q), and Transit visas. The type of visa depends on the purpose and duration of your travel.

How long does it take to process a China visa?

Standard processing for a China visa usually takes 4 to 7 working days after submission. Express processing may be available in selected cities through the authorized Chinese visa application service center, subject to approval.

What documents are required for a China visa application?

Applicants generally need a valid passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, travel itinerary, accommodation details, and supporting documents such as invitation letters or financial proof, depending on the visa type.

Where can Indians apply for a China visa?

Indian applicants must submit their applications through an authorized Chinese visa application service center, where biometric data and document verification are completed as per embassy guidelines.

How early should I apply for a China visa?

It is recommended to apply for your China visa at least 30 days before your travel date. Applications are usually accepted up to three months in advance, allowing time for verification and corrections if needed.

What are the photo requirements for a China visa?

The photo must be recent, taken against a white background, with no headwear (unless for religious reasons), clear facial features, and must meet the exact specifications provided by the visa authorities.

Can a China visa application be rejected?

Yes, applications can be rejected due to incomplete documents, incorrect information, unclear travel purpose, or insufficient financial proof. Proper guidance for the China visa for Indians helps reduce rejection risks.

Is it safe to apply through a visa agent or service provider?

Yes, applying through a professional Chinese visa application service center or authorized visa consultant can help ensure accurate documentation, faster processing, and reduced chances of errors or delays.

How much does a China visa cost for Indians?

The cost of a China visa for Indians depends on the visa type (tourist, business, work), number of entries, and processing speed.
Generally, the visa fee includes:

Embassy visa fee
Service charges of the Chinese visa application service center

Express or urgent processing may increase the total cost.

Can I get a Chinese visa in 3 days?

Yes, in some cases. Express processing can allow a Chinese visa to be processed within 2–3 working days, depending on your location, visa category, and approval by the authorities. Availability may vary by city and application volume.

Is a China visa free for 30 days?

No. China does not currently offer a free 30-day visa for Indian passport holders. Indians must apply for a visa in advance, regardless of trip duration or purpose.

How much is a 2-week visa to China?

China does not issue visas strictly based on trip length like “2-week visas.”
Instead, applicants receive a visa (usually tourist or business) with a permitted stay period, which may allow stays of up to 14 days, 30 days, or more—depending on approval and visa type. Fees remain the same regardless of whether you stay for 10 days or 2 weeks.

Can I visit China for 10 days without a visa?

No. Indian citizens cannot visit China without a visa, even for short stays such as 10 days. A valid China visa must be obtained before travel.

What is the new visa fee?

China visa fees are subject to periodic updates based on bilateral agreements and processing rules. The latest visa fee depends on: