China Visa for Indians – Complete Application Guide

Planning a trip to China is an exciting prospect. However, like any major international journey, securing the correct visa is the crucial first step. For Indian travellers, the application process for a Chinese visa requires precision, patience, and a thorough understanding of the requirements.

Forget the outdated notions of endless embassy queues. The process has become more structured, primarily handled by the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). 

This blog will help you understand everything you need to know about the China visa for Indians, ensuring your application is as smooth as a silk tapestry.

Understanding Visa Types

The first and most important step in the China visa for Indians application process is correctly identifying your purpose of travel. China offers various visa categories, and selecting the wrong one can lead to immediate rejection.

The Most Common China Visa Types for Indian Applicants:

• Tourist Visa (L-Visa): Issued to those who intend to go to China for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. This is the most common visa type for general travellers.

• Business Visa (M-Visa): Issued to those who intend to go to China for commercial or trade activities, such as attending trade fairs, meetings, or negotiating contracts.

• Study Visa (X-Visa): Divided into X1 (for stays over 180 days) and X2 (for stays less than 180 days), this is for students who have been admitted to a Chinese educational institution.

• Work Visa (Z-Visa): Issued to those who have secured employment and have obtained an appropriate work permit in China.

• Private Visit Visa (S1/S2): For family members of foreigners working or studying in China. S1 is for long-term stays, and S2 is for short-term visits.

• Family Reunion Visa (Q1/Q2): For family members of Chinese citizens or foreigners with permanent residence in China. Q1 is for long-term stays, and Q2 is for short-term visits.

Essential China Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Regardless of the visa type you apply for, there is a set of core documentation required from all applicants. Ensuring these are perfect is key to a successful application. This list outlines the general China visa requirements for Indian citizens.

Basic Documentation

• Passport: The original Indian passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your planned entry into China and must have at least two blank visa pages. A photocopy of the passport’s bio-data page (with photo and personal information) is also required.

• Visa Application Form and Photo: The application form must be completed online via the CVASC website. Once completed, you must print it out (single-sided), sign the confirmation page, and attach a recently taken (within 6 months) colour photo. The photo size must be 48mm x 33mm, with a white background, and comply strictly with all biometric photo specifications (no head covering unless for religious reasons, full face visible, etc.).

• Proof of Legal Stay (if applicable): If you are applying from a country other than India (where you do not hold citizenship), you must provide the original and a photocopy of your valid visa or residence permit for that country.

• Previous Visas/Passports (if applicable): If you have obtained previous Chinese visas, a photocopy of the latest one is highly recommended. If you have a renewed passport without any Chinese visas, you must provide the original previous passport(s) along with a photocopy of its data page.

Supporting Documents Based on Visa Type

Beyond the basics, the required supporting documents depend entirely on the visa category:

For Tourist Visa (L-Visa):

• Proof of Itinerary: Round-trip flight tickets (confirmed booking). Non-refundable tickets are generally not recommended until the visa is approved.

• Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel reservations covering the entire duration of your stay in China.

• Financial Proof: Bank statements (from the last 6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your travel expenses. A signed, stamped letter from the bank or Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 3 years may also be requested.

• Personal Covering Letter: A signed letter explaining the purpose of your trip, intended dates of travel, and a detailed, day-by-day travel plan.

For Business Visa (M-Visa):

• Invitation Letter: An official invitation letter from a trade partner or relevant entity in China. This letter must contain:

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

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

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

• Indian Company Letter: A covering letter from your company in India on official letterhead, detailing the purpose of your visit, the dates, and a guarantee of your return.

• Proof of Commercial Activity: Documents concerning commercial activity (e.g., trade fair invitation, business registration documents).

Step-by-Step Application Guide for a China Visa for Indians

Applying for a China visa for Indians is a streamlined process carried out through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centres (CVASC) located in various Indian cities (currently in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc.).

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official CVASC website for your region in India. You must fill out the comprehensive electronic application form online. The system allows you to save your progress, but accuracy is paramount—double-check every detail, as errors can lead to delays. Once completed, the system will generate an application form and a confirmation page.

Step 2: Book an Appointment

After successfully submitting the online form, you must book an appointment through the CVASC website to physically submit your documents and provide biometrics. Appointments are mandatory.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the required documents specific to your visa type, including the printed online application form, confirmation page, passport, photograph, and all supporting documents (invitation, flight, hotel, finances, etc.). Ensure all photocopies are clear.

Step 4: Submission at the CVASC

Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre on your scheduled date and time. You will submit your application and documents in person. At this stage, you will also pay the visa fee and the service fee. Be prepared for a brief biometrics collection process (fingerprints and photo) and a document check by the CVASC staff.

Step 5: Fee Payment

The total fee comprises the Visa Fee (determined by the Chinese Embassy/Consulate, which varies based on the number of entries: single, double, or multiple) and the Service Fee charged by the CVASC. Payment is typically accepted in cash or through a bank draft at the centre. Always verify the latest fee structure on the CVASC website before your appointment.

Step 6: Collection

Once your application is processed, you will receive a notification (or you can track the status online). You can collect your passport with the visa from the CVASC, or if you opted for the courier service, it will be delivered to you. Immediately upon receipt, verify all the details on your new Chinese visa, especially your name, date of birth, validity, and duration of stay.

Also Read : China Visa Photo Size

Key Considerations, Fees, and Processing Times

The typical processing time for a China visa for Indians via regular service is generally 4 to 7 working days from the date of submission.

• Express Service: An expedited service, usually taking 2 to 3 working days, is available for an additional fee. This service is not available for first-time applicants for certain visa categories.

• Timing: It is highly advisable to apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date, especially during peak travel seasons, to account for any unexpected delays or requests for additional documents.

• Financial Proof: Consular officers pay close attention to the applicant’s financial stability. The general recommendation is to show sufficient funds (typically equivalent to INR 1,00,000 or more) to cover your stay, demonstrated through recent bank statements.

Securing your China visa for Indians may seem like a complex task, but by meticulously following the application steps, carefully preparing the required documentation, and selecting the correct visa category, you can ensure a smooth process. 

Once your visa is secured, the final, non-negotiable step before any international trip is arranging adequate travel protection. 

At Niva Bupa, we offer a travel insurance plan that is designed to provide an extensive safety net, covering you for medical emergencies, checked-in baggage loss, and other unforeseen travel disruptions while in China. 

People Also Ask

1. Is travel insurance mandatory for the China visa?

   While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for all visa types, it is highly recommended. It offers essential financial protection against unforeseen emergencies like medical expenses, trip cancellations, or baggage loss during your time in China.

2. How long is the China Tourist (L) Visa valid for?

   The standard L-visa for Indian citizens is usually valid for 90 days from the date of issue, permitting a maximum stay of 30 days per entry. However, the final decision on validity and duration is always at the discretion of the consular officer.

3. Can I get a visa-on-arrival in China as an Indian citizen?

   No, Indian citizens must secure a valid visa before travelling to mainland China. Visa-on-arrival is generally not available for standard tourism or business purposes, except in very rare, specific, and pre-approved official circumstances.

4. Do I need to provide confirmed flight and hotel bookings?

   Yes, confirmed round-trip flight bookings and accommodation reservations covering your entire stay are a mandatory part of the China visa requirements for Indian citizens. However, avoid non-refundable tickets until your visa is officially approved.

5. What should I do if my visa application is rejected?

   If your application for a China visa for Indians is rejected, the visa centre may provide a reason. You can reapply once you have addressed the reason for the initial rejection, such as incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, or a lack of clarity in your travel purpose.