China Visa for Indians

​Obtaining a China visa for Indians is a crucial step in planning a trip to China. Whether you're visiting for tourism, business or other purposes, understanding the China visa requirements for Indian citizens is essential to ensure a smooth application.

This guide will provide detailed information on how to apply for a China visa for Indian tourists, documents needed, costs, and other details to help you prepare for your journey. Additionally, it will provide insights into making your trip safer by choosing Reliance Travel Insurance for China.

Do Indians Need a China Visa for Indians?

Yes, you are required to have an appropriate China visa for Indian citizens, which must be applied prior to your arrival in China.

The country offers a range of visas specific to the purpose of your travel. These include tourist visas, work visas, student visas, transit visas, and permanent residence visas.

The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in India is located in New Delhi, while the consulates are in Kolkata and Mumbai. The visa process must be completed online after booking an appointment through the official Embassy or Consulate website. You must submit all the required documents in person on your appointment date.

The general requirements for China e-visa for Indians include a visa application form, a passport with six months' validity, confirmation of the online visa application, recent photographs and other documents specific to the visa type.

Additionally, while it is not mandatory, we highly recommend buying travel insurance for China that protects you from unexpected medical and travel emergencies.

Is There a Chi​​na Visa on Arrival for Indians?

No, Indian citizens are not eligible for a visa on arrival in China. Instead, they need to apply for the right type of visa before they arrive at their destination. Indian travellers must apply for a visa in advance through the Chinese Embassy or Consulates in India. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of travel, such as tourism, business or study.

Certain exemptions might apply for special cases, such as transit passengers. For example, the 24-hour free transit policy is available in select cities for Indian travellers transiting to a third country.

Travellers are advised to confirm requirements and policies with the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate before planning their trip.

Types of China V​​​isa for Indians

China Visa Durat​ion for Indian Citizens for Different Types of Visas

Why is Travel Ins​urance for China Visa Essential?

China Visa Fea​​tures for Indians

• Multiple Visa Types: Chinese visas for Indian citizens offer a wide range of visa types, including tourist (L), business (M), work (Z), and student (X) visas, catering to different travel purposes.
• Single and Multiple Entries: ​Applicants can opt for single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visas, depending on the visa type.
• Duration of Stay: The allowed stay duration varies by visa type, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, with extensions possible in certain cases.
• Straightforward Application Process: Applications can be submitted online or through China Visa Application Centers across India, with clear guidelines for documentation.
• Mandatory Visa for Most Travelers: Indian citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to China, with exceptions for certain transit stays.
• Biometric Data Collection: Applicants may be required to provide fingerprints as part of the China visa requirements for Indian citizens.
• Special Conditions for China Business Visa for Indians: Business visas often require an invitation letter from a Chinese organisation.
• Visa Fees and Processing Times: Visa fees and processing times vary depending on the visa type and urgency, ensuring flexibility for applicants.

Who Needs a Ch​​​​ina Visa in India?

China Visa for India​​ns: Factors You Must Know When Applying

• Processing Time: Standard processing takes 4-5 working days, while expedited processing may be completed in 2-3 days for an additional fee.
• China visa requirements for Indian citizens: Key documents include a valid passport, visa application form, recent photographs, proof of financial stability and a travel itinerary.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements based on the visa type. For example, a Chinese business visa for Indians requires proof of business activities, a student visa requires admission to a Chinese institution, etc.
• Financial Proof:Applicants may need to provide bank statements or other financial documents to demonstrate their ability to fund their stay in China.
• Accuracy of Details: Ensure that all personal information, including name, date of birth, and passport details, is accurate to avoid rejections.
• Biometric Data: Be prepared to provide fingerprints and other biometric data during the application process for a China visa for Indian passport holders.
• Invitation Letter: ​Business, family, or student visas often require an invitation letter from a Chinese sponsor.
• Travel Insurance:Comprehensive travel insurance with your China visa for an Indian passport is strongly recommended to cover unforeseen emergencies.

China Visa Eligi​​bility for Indians

• Passport Validity: Must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into China.
• Completed Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately, ensuring all details match your passport and other supporting documents.
• Financial Stability: Provide bank statements or other financial documents to prove your ability to fund your stay with your Indian passport for a China visa.
• China Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: Submit additional documents based on the visa type, such as an invitation letter for business or family visas, proof of enrollment for student visas, or employment contracts for work visas.
• Recent Photograph: Include a passport-sized photograph that meets China’s specific visa photo requirements.
• Travel Itinerary: Submit a detailed travel itinerary, including flight bookings and hotel reservations, for your China visa for Indian citizens.
• Health and Safety: Depending on the situation, applicants may need proof of vaccinations or adherence to health protocols.

How to App​​ly for a China Visa for Indian Citizens?

1. Choose the Visa Type: Before starting the China visa application for Indians, determine the appropriate visa category (e.g., tourist, business, student) based on the purpose of travel.
2. Complete the Visa Application Form: Fill out the online visa application form and print it. Ensure all details are accurate and match your supporting documents.
3. Prepare the Required Documents: Gather documents for your specific visa type, such as a China business visa for Indians, needed for work conferences overseas in China, will require a valid passport, recent photographs, a travel itinerary, proof of funds, and hotel bookings.
4. Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in your city.
5. Submit the Application: Visit the CVASC to submit our application along with the required fees.
6. Track your Application: Use the application tracking system on the CVASC website to check the status.
7. Collect your China visa for Indians: Collect the processed visa on the specified date or arrange for courier delivery.

China Visa F​​ees for Indians

*Note that fees are subject to change with time and are at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy. So, visit the Embassy website to know the latest China visa charges for Indians.

Required Docu​​ments Required for China Visa for Indians

Here is the list of China visa documents for Indian citizens under each visa type –

China Tourist Visa (L) Document Checklist

• Valid passport
• Completed application form
• Passport-size photo
• Travel itinerary
• Flight tickets
• Proof of hotel booking.

China Business Visa (M) Document Checklist

• Invitation letter from a Chinese company
• Passport
• Completed application form
• Photo
• Proof of financial capability.

China Student Visa (X) Document Checklist

• Admission letter from a Chinese university
• JW201/JW202 form
• Passport
• Completed form
• Medical clearance certificate.

China Work Visa (Z) Document Checklist

• Work permit
• Employer invitation letter
• Valid passport
• Application form
• Photo
• Health examination certificate.

China Family Reunion Visa (Q) Document Checklist

• Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage/birth certificate)
• Passport,
• Visa form (signed and filled)
• Photo
• Invitation letter from a relative in China.

*Note that this is not an inclusive list. For more details about specific requirements for your visa type, visit your Visa Service Application Centre website or Embassy website.

What is the Pro​​cessing Time for a China Visa for Indian Citizens?

Incomplete forms, incorrect documents or high seasonal demand may delay the processing of all types of visas. Submit your application well in advance of your planned travel date to avoid unexpected delays.

How to Track Ch​ina Visas for Indians?

1. Visit the Official Website: Access the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website specific to your location to track the China visa process for Indians.
2. Login or Access the Tracking Page: Navigate to the “Track Your Application” section on the website.
3. Enter Tracking Details: Use the tracking reference number provided during your visa application submission. Also, include other requested details, such as your date of birth or application ID.
4. Review the Status: Check updates such as “Received,” “Under Process,” or "Ready for Collection.”
5. Collection Details: Once the China visa status for Indian citizens is indicated as “Ready for Collection,” visit the CVASC with your receipt or arrange courier delivery if you prefer.

How to Renew Ch​ina Visa for Indians?

• Eligibility Check: Ensure your current visa is still valid, as expired visas may result in penalties or deportation.
• Visit the Public Security Bureau (PSB): Head to the local PSB Exit and Entry Administration Office in China, where applications for China visa renewal for Indians are processed.
• China Visa Requirements for Indians: Prepare essential documents, such as a valid passport, visa application form, recent photo, proof of residency in China, and other supporting documents.
• Reason for Extension: Clearly explain the reason for renewing or extending your visa, whether for work, tourism, or other purposes.
• Application Fee: Pay the applicable fee for China visa renewal for Indian passport holders. Fees may vary depending on the visa type and duration.
• Processing Time: ​The visa renewal process for Indian citizens in China takes 7-10 business days to complete.

What is the Chin​​a Visa Validity for Indians?

For more details, contact the Embassy or the CVASC you belong to.

COVID-19 Guid​​elines for a China Visa for Indians

• Vaccination Requirements: Travellers are no longer required to present vaccination certificates when entering China. However, completing the primary dose of vaccination is encouraged.
• RT-PCR Test Report: Travellers must not present a negative RT-PCR test conducted within 48 hours of departure for any type of visa, including a China work visa for Indians.
• Health Declaration Form: Travellers entering or exiting out of China are no longer required to submit a health declaration form.
• Quarantine Rules: As of China visa COVID rules for Indian citizens, quarantine for international travellers has been lifted. This has allowed immediate access to public spaces upon arrival.
• Mask Mandate: While it is not mandatory in most public areas in China, wearing masks is encouraged in crowded public spaces and public transportation for your own well-being.
• Travel Insurance: While it is not mandatory, we recommend buying travel insurance that offers coverage against COVID-19-related medical expenses in China.

Common Visa C​​hina Rejection Reasons for Indian Citizens and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete Application Forms: Applications with missing or incorrect details can lead to China visa rejection for Indians.
• Tip: Double-check the form for accuracy before submission.
• Invalid or Expired Passport: A passport with less than 6 months of validity or insufficient black pages may cause rejection.
• Tip: Renew your passport if needed before applying.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: Inadequate evidence of financial stability can result in denial.
• Tip: Provide a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds for your stay
• Missing Supporting Documents: Failure to provide key documents like invitation letters or travel itineraries can lead to delays or rejection.
• Tip: Review the checklist for your visa type carefully.
• Poorly Prepared Photos: Incorrect photo size or format is a common reason for application denial.
• Tip: Follow embassy specifications for photos.
• Previous Overstays or Violations: Prior visa violations may impact approval.
• Tip: ​Ensure compliance with all visa conditions during previous visits.

Things to Kn​​ow About China for Indian Travellers

Rich History

China boasts a history spanning thousands of years, with iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City reflecting its imperial past.

Diverse Culture:

With 56 ethnic groups, China offers diverse traditions, festivals and languages, the most spoken being Mandarin.

Diverse Customs:

Politeness and hierarchy are valued in Chinese society, and tipping is not customary in most places. So, our best China travel tips for Indians include following local customs.

Food:

Chinese cuisine is globally renowned, with regional specialities like Peking Duck (Beijing), Dim Sum (Cantonese) and Sichuan Hot Pot.

Transportation:

China has an advanced transport network, including high-speed trains and extensive metro systems in major cities.

Currency Exchange:

This is the most important Indian tourist information for China. The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB). Travellers should exchange money at authorised banks or ATMs.

Technology Integration:

Mobile payment systems like Aplipay and WeChat Pay are widely used, making cashless transactions common. This China visitor tip for Indians is commonly offered to download these apps and use them when required.

Weather Variations:

China’s vast geography results in varied climates, from the cold north to the tropical south, making travel planning essential.

Best Plac​es to See in China

Frequently A​​​sked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the requirements for a China visa for Indian citizens?

Indian citizens must submit a valid passport, visa application form, recent photograph, proof of financial means, travel itinerary and invitation letter (if applicable). Additional documents may be required based on the visa type, such as employment contracts or student enrollment letters.

2. How does the China visa process for Indian citizens work?

The process involves completing the visa application form online, submitting the application with the required documents to a Visa Application Service Center, and attending a biometric appointment if required. Once processed, the visa can be collected or delivered via courier.

3. What is the cost of a China visa for Indians?

The cost varies by visa type and processing speed. A single-entry tourist visa typically costs ₹3,900. Business visas or multiple-entry visas cost more, and expedited processing incurs additional charges.

4. What are the features of a China business visa for Indians?

A China business visa (M Visa) allows Indian citizens to attend business meetings, trade fairs, and other commercial activities. It typically permits a stay of up to 30 days per entry and can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries based on the invitation letter and applicant’s requirements.

5. Why is travel insurance necessary for a China visa application?

Travel insurance is essential as it covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations or delays, and loss of belongings. With China’s vast geography and unique healthcare system, having insurance providers a financial safety net during emergencies.

Disclaimers: *T&C Apply. For more details on risk factors, terms conditions, brochure, and exclusions, please read the policy wording and CIS carefully before concluding a sale.
Details mentioned here are for Reliance Travel Care Policy, UIN: RELTIOP08002V010708.
Sum Insured: The mentioned Sum insured amount is applicable only under Reliance Travel Care Policy – Individual – Platinum Plan.
Total loss of checked baggage: Maximum amount payable per checked-in baggage in case more than one bag has been checked in, is 50% (100% for only one checked-in baggage) of applicable sum insured and per item in baggage maximum 10%.
Claim Settlement Ratio: This is the overall claim settlement ratio for FY 2023-24 without claim outstanding at the start of the financial year as per public disclosure of Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd.
Premium: The premium mentioned is excluding taxes for a medical sum insured of $25,000 for an Individual of 20 years on an Asia trip of 4 days. This is applicable for the Asia plan only.