How to Apply For a Chinese Visa

Anyone who is applying for a Chinese visa should select a visa category that describes his/her trip to China. In addition to this, it is essential to include the necessary supporting documents and get prepared for the application process.

Individuals who have paid the application fees and filled the required forms should submit their applications to the visa offices of Chinese Consulate/Embassy in their states of residence.

What You Need to Do Before Applying for a Visa

Finding Out Whether Visa is Necessary

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Anyone who is planning to travel to China should find out whether is it is mandatory for him/her to have a visa. This is done by reviewing the Chinese visa-free policies. People who come from countries that participate in visa waiver programs don’t need a visa when traveling for pleasure or business. However, some people cannot be allowed to visit China if they are suffering from the following conditions: leprosy, mental disorder, contagious tuberculosis or other venereal diseases.

It is essential to check the regulations as they can change from time to time. You can confirm the requirements by contacting the visa application body of your state or country.

Finding Out the Kind of Visa Needed

There are different types of visas that you can apply for. Every type of visa has its application terms and qualifications. Travelers are required to determine the right visa that applies to their situation.

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Checking Your Passport

Travelers are advised to check the validity of their passports before applying for visas. You are required to have a passport with a validity of at least six months. This means that you should make an effort if renewing it if it is due to expire within the next six months. In addition to this, travelers should ensure that they have blank pages in their passports.

Steps Followed When Applying For a Visa

Gather Your Documents

The following are the essential forms that you need to complete:

  • Original passport- Your passport should have at least two blank pages
  • Valid visa application form- This form can be downloaded from the official Chinese embassy website.
  • A recent, clear passport-type photography
  • An air tickets record

Individuals who have been invited by their friends are required to fill in the invitation form-It is in this form where you fill in:

  • Your personal details- Name, date of birth and gender
  • Details of your visit- Places of accommodation, places to visit, and purpose of visiting
  • Details of the inviting parties- address, name, telephone numbers

Submitting the Application

Visa application forms are submitted to the Chinese consulates or embassies. Most of these offices do not accept mailed applications’ nor do they require an appointment. You should drop your application in person or send someone whom you trust.