How to Apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa) to China
China is one of the world’s most fascinating destinations — from the Great Wall and Forbidden City to modern cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen. If you’re travelling for tourism, visiting friends or family, or leisure, you will need a Chinese Tourist Visa (Category L) unless you’re eligible for a visa-free transit or short stay.
This guide explains who needs a visa, the required documents, and step-by-step instructions for applying.
1. Do You Need a Tourist Visa for China?
- Visa required:
Most travellers — including citizens of Australia, USA, UK, EU/Schengen, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and most Asian, African, and Latin American countries — need a tourist visa (L Visa). - Visa-free entry:
China has limited visa-free policies (e.g., Hong Kong & Macau residents, certain 15-day visa-free programs for Singapore, Japan, Brunei, Malaysia, and some European countries for specific cities/provinces). - Visa-free transit (G Visa):
Many nationalities can enjoy 144-hour or 72-hour visa-free transit if connecting through major airports like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
✅ Check the latest policy with your nearest Chinese embassy or official visa centre: https://www.visaforchina.cn
2. Tourist Visa (L Visa) Overview
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Allowed | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| L Visa (Single Entry) | Tourism, visiting friends/family | Up to 30 days | 3 months (enter once) |
| L Visa (Double Entry) | Tourism with two entries | 30 days each entry | 3–6 months |
| L Visa (Multiple Entry) | Frequent leisure/family visits | 30–60 days each entry | 6 months to 10 years (varies by nationality) |
💡 US citizens can often get 10-year multiple entry tourist visas.
3. Required Documents
Most applicants will need:
- ✅ Passport valid 6+ months beyond travel dates with 2+ blank visa pages
- ✅ Completed Visa Application Form (download or fill online at https://www.visaforchina.cn)
- ✅ Recent passport photo (white background, 48mm x 33mm)
- ✅ Proof of travel:
- Flight bookings (entry & exit from China)
- Hotel reservations or invitation letter from host (with copy of Chinese ID/residence permit)
- ✅ Previous Chinese visas (if any) — provide passport copy if in an old passport
- ✅ Visa fee payment (varies by nationality — see below)
Additional:
- If visiting friends/relatives: Invitation letter including name, ID/passport number, and contact details of the inviter.
- Some applicants may need proof of funds (bank statements) or travel insurance.
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 — Complete the Visa Application
- Fill out the China Visa Application Form (Form V.2013) online or by PDF.
- Sign and print the form.
Step 2 — Book an Appointment
- Schedule a visit at your nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) or consulate.
- In many countries, you must apply through CVASC (e.g., Australia, UK, Canada, most EU countries).
Step 3 — Submit Your Documents
- Bring:
- Printed and signed visa application
- Passport and photocopy of ID page
- Passport photo
- Travel bookings or invitation
- Visa fee payment proof (if required)
- Provide fingerprints (mandatory for most applicants).
Step 4 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Fees vary by nationality and visa type:
- Single entry: USD $30–90
- Multiple entry (10-year for US citizens): ~USD $140
- Service fees: Extra if applying via CVASC
- Some centres only accept card or bank transfer — check in advance.
Step 5 — Wait for Processing
- Standard: 4–7 business days.
- Express: 2–3 business days (extra fee).
- Rush service: 1 business day (available in limited cases).
Step 6 — Collect Your Visa
- Pick up at the visa centre or arrange delivery (if offered).
- Check the visa sticker for validity dates and number of entries.
5. Fees (2025 — Approximate)
| Nationality | Single Entry | Multiple Entry (6–12 mo) | 10-Year Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ~USD $140 | ~USD $140 | ~USD $140 |
| Australia | ~AUD $110 | ~AUD $220 | N/A |
| UK | ~GBP £85 | ~GBP £150 | N/A |
| EU | ~EUR €60–120 | ~EUR €120–180 | N/A |
| Canada | ~CAD $100 | ~CAD $150–200 | N/A |
Additional service fees apply if using a Visa Application Service Centre.
6. Visa-Free Transit Options
If you’re transiting through China and staying short-term:
- 144-hour visa-free transit in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu.
- Requirements:
- Must be travelling from one country to another (e.g., Sydney → Shanghai → Paris).
- Must have a confirmed onward ticket within 144 hrs.
💡 Great option if you’re stopping briefly in China on your way to another country.
7. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early: 1–2 months before travel; allow time for fingerprint appointments.
- Use official visa centres: https://www.visaforchina.cn — avoid third-party sites.
- Check your passport: Must be valid 6+ months beyond travel with blank pages.
- Keep copies: Scan your visa and passport in case of loss.
- Proof of funds: Some travellers are asked to show bank statements.
- Travel insurance recommended: Especially for medical emergencies.
- Understand entry rules: Overstaying can lead to fines or bans.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months, 2 blank pages)
- Completed and signed visa application
- Passport photo (white background)
- Flight bookings in/out of China
- Hotel bookings or invitation letter
- Payment for visa fee + service centre fee
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Copies of visa & passport for backup