A Chinese visa is required to travel to or transit through China for foreigners of most nationalities. (Passport holders from Singapore, Brunei, and Japan are allowed Visa-free entry into China for up to 15 days.)

Chinese visas are issued by the Chinese visa authorities according to the applicant’s status, passport type, and the purpose of the visit. The most common types of visas issued are the L (Tourist) Visa – issued for sightseeing, visiting family, or other private purpose - and the F (Business) Visa – issued for doing business, studying, or other short-term professional purpose.

You can apply for a Chinese Visa at Chinese embassies, consulates, and other offices authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China either by visiting in person or by entrusting someone to apply for you.

Submit the following with your application:

• Your passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and at least 1 blank page.
• A completed Visa application form.
• 1 passport photo glued or stapled to the application form.
• For an F (Business) Visa, an invitation letter from your inviting organization or business in China is also required.

The processing time is normally 4 business days, although the process can be expedited to 2-3 business days or same day for additional fees of 20 USD and 30 USD respectively.

Visas will vary in terms of number of entries, allowed duration of each stay, and expiration date. Here are the general options and prices:

Number of Entries	Price for US Citizens	Price for Ctizens of Other Countries
Single Entry	$130	$30
Double Entry	$130	$45
Multiple Entry for 6 Months	$130	$60
Multiple Entry for 12 Months	$130	$90
Multiple Entry for 24 Months	$130	$90

Please keep in mind that this information should serve as a general reference only; for the most accurate and up-to-date information, please inquire at the designated Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.

In the U.S., the Chinese Embassy is located in Washington, D.C., and there are 5 consulates-general located in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Houston. Find out which has jurisdiction over your state of residence.

See "Links to Chinese Embassies and Consulates Worldwide" in the right column of this page to get more information for your designated Chinese Embassy.