COVID-19 has changed Indians’ perspective toward China. However, China’s tourism sector rebounded in 2023, with revenue surpassing US$580 billion – a remarkable 96 percent growth. There are many factors, such as eased travel restrictions, increased disposable income, and a surge in domestic tourism, contributing to this revival.

And since we are all healthy and safe now, visiting China can be turned on in your travel checklist. The government’s subsidies and tax exemptions further fuel the industry’s resurgence, highlighting its economic significance. So, if you are planning your next trip to China and someone is wondering how much time it takes for Chinese Visa processing, you have it here.

China Visa Processing Time for Indians

The processing time for a China visa typically takes around four days. During this period, the embassy or consulate reviews the application, verifies the documents, and decides to issue the visa. Applicants should plan their visa application well in advance to ensure they receive their visa in time for their intended travel dates.

These details provide travelers with important information about the China visa, helping them understand its validity, duration of stay, associated costs, and processing time, thus enabling them to plan their trips effectively.

What is the Validity of China Visa?

The China visa allows holders to enter the country within a period of 30 days from the date of issue. This means that once the visa is issued, it remains valid for a duration of 30 days, during which the visa holder can plan their travel to China.

Upon entering China with the visa, travelers are permitted to stay in the country for a maximum duration of 15 days. This indicates the period of time that visa holders can spend within China’s borders for tourism, business, or other approved purposes.

Application for Chinese Visa

To apply for a China visa, you have two options. The first is to visit the China embassy or consulate in person, located in Delhi, Kolkata, or Mumbai in India.

Documents required.

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has a minimum validity of six months and at least two blank pages.
• Passport Copies: Provide photocopies of the front and back of a valid passport. Include photocopies of the front and back of a passport that expired within the last five years.
• Previous Chinese Visa: Submit a photocopy of the previous Chinese visa for Indians if applicable.
• Passport-size Photographs: Include two recent passport-size photographs with a white background (48mm×33mm).
• Digital Photo for Online Form: Provide a digital photo for the online form in JPEG format, sized between 40 KB and 120 KB.
• Proof of Funds: Include an original bank certificate displaying the applicant’s account number, balance, and personal details.
• Travel Arrangements: Submit proof of travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations.
• Financial Means Proof: Provide evidence of financial means to cover expenses during the stay, such as bank or credit card statements.
• Itinerary or Travel Plan: Include a copy of the itinerary or travel plan for the trip to China.
• Letter of Invitation: If applicable, submit a letter of invitation from the Chinese host or travel agency, including all relevant details.

How to apply?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a China visa through the official channel:

• Online Application

  : Visit the official Chinese visa website and fill out the online application form with accurate information. Upload necessary documents like your passport, passport-sized photo, and supporting documents based on your travel purpose.

• Visa Appointment Scheduling

  : Once you complete the online application, schedule a visa appointment through the website. Choose a date and time convenient for your visit to the designated application center.

• Submission of Application

  : On the scheduled appointment day, visit the designated application center and submit your completed application along with the required documents. You’ll receive a pick-up form specifying the time to collect your visa, usually between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM on a later date.

• Payment of Visa Fees

  : Pay the applicable visa fees using the designated payment methods. Save the payment receipt as it might be needed while visa collection process.

1. Collection of Visa

   : Return to the application center on the specified date and time to collect your visa. Present the payment receipt and any additional documents as instructed by the authorities.

Know about Application Centres

Understanding embassy jurisdiction is crucial when applying for a China visa. The Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in India have designated consular jurisdiction areas for processing visa applications.

Residents of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chattisgarh, and West Bengal have their visa applications processed by the Chinese Consulate-General in Kolkata. For those residing in Maharashtra or Karnataka, visa applications are handled by the Chinese Consulate-General in Mumbai.

Applicants living outside these specified areas fall under the jurisdiction of the Chinese Embassy in India. They should submit their visa application documents through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in New Delhi. This ensures smooth processing and adherence to the correct jurisdictional procedures.

Chinese Visa rules

Here are some simple rules to remember when applying for a China visa:

• Passport Jurisdiction: The jurisdiction of your passport decides which embassy will review your application. You can’t send it to a different one.
• Tourist Visa Limitation: A tourist visa doesn’t allow you to work in China. For work-related activities, you need a work visa.
• No Visa on Arrival: China doesn’t offer Indian nationals the option to apply for a visa upon arrival. You need to apply in advance.
• Visa Fees Vary: The fees for different types of visas (single, double, multiple-entry) differ. There might be extra charges depending on where you apply and currency exchange rates.

Mistakes to avoid.

Avoiding mistakes is crucial when applying for a visa.

• Ensure all required documents are accurate and up to date.
• Make sure all necessary documents are fully filled out and provided.
• Authorities may reject your visa if they perceive a security risk in your background.
• If your passport is close to expiry, it may lead to visa rejection. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity.
• Make sure you have enough funds to cover your stay, as insufficient funds can lead to visa rejection.

Cost of Chinese Visa for Indians

Here’s a breakdown of the fees for China visas for Indians:

1. Single-entry visa: ₹4000.
2. Double-entry visa: ₹6000.
3. Multiple-entry visa: ₹8000.

Keep in mind that additional fees may apply depending on where you apply for your visa. Also, these fees could vary due to currency exchange rates.

Getting a China visa is not too complicated as long as you follow the steps and requirements correctly. Just gather all the required documents, pay the fee, and wait a few days for it to be processed. Once you have your visa, you’re set to explore the incredible sights and experiences China has waiting for you. So, take your time to plan your trip, make sure everything’s in order, and get ready for the China tour.

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