Applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide (with Tips!)

Applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide (with Tips!)

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Applying for a China Visa: Easier Than You Think!

I recently navigated the new visa regulations to secure visas for my entire family, including my one-year-old. The process was surprisingly straightforward.

I submitted the online application on September 2nd. It was approved on September 3rd, and I submitted the physical documents on September 4th. The appointment was scheduled for September 14th, but the visa was actually issued on September 10th. So, if you need it urgently, check the website and pick it up earlier!

In my experience, obtaining a China visa is easier than I expected. Everything is online, which simplifies the process compared to previous visa applications I've handled. I'm happy to share my insights with you below.

Step-by-Step Guide to Your China Visa

1. Online Application

   Complete the online application form here: China Online Visa Application

   • 1.1. Provide your personal and family information. The form conveniently saves your progress, so you can resume where you left off.

   • 1.2. Upload the following documents on one page:

     • 1.2.1. Form CT07 if this is your first international trip (blank passport).

     • 1.2.2. Visas from previous trips (I uploaded PDF files of my South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan visas).

     • 1.2.3. Two blank passport pages.

     • 1.2.4. Birth certificate, parents' passports, and a parental consent letter (for children under 18 traveling with parents).

     • 1.2.5. Bank statement (minimum 50 million VND) – REQUIRED.

2. Physical Document Submission

   • 2.1. Original passport + one-sided photocopy.

   • 2.2. One 48x33 mm photo with a white background.

   • 2.3. Printed copy of the approved online visa application form (one-sided).

   • 2.4. Photocopy of your national ID card.

   • 2.5. Round-trip flight ticket.

   • 2.6. Hotel booking confirmation.

   • 2.7. Detailed itinerary (in English or Chinese).

   • 2.8. Bank statement (minimum 50 million VND) – REQUIRED.

   • 2.9. Employee confirmation letter and leave request (I submitted them, but they were returned after review).

   • 2.10. Photocopies of birth certificate and marriage certificate.

3. Fees

   • 3.1. 725,000 VND per person upon physical document submission (non-refundable).

   • 3.2. $45 USD upon visa approval (not required if the application is rejected; instructions are provided in the accompanying document).

4. Helpful Tips

   • 4.1. Book Vietnam Airlines flights with deferred payment and print the confirmation email.

   • 4.2. Book hotels on platforms like Trip.com and take a screenshot of the confirmation; no payment is needed upfront.

   • 4.3. Generate your bank statement online through your banking app (it includes an electronic seal) – no need to visit the bank.

   • 4.4. No translation or notarization is required for China visa documents (I spent a lot on translation for my South Korea visa application).

   • 4.5. Married couples and their children can use a joint bank account (total balance exceeding 150 million VND) + photocopies of marriage and birth certificates.

   • 4.6. Request form CT07 online via the public service portal; you'll receive an electronic version with a red seal within four days.

Applying for a China visa is truly easier than expected. I wish you all the best!

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