Planning to visit China? Learn about China visa for Indians, latest 2025 updates, fees, documents, and step-by-step application process.
China Visa for Indians: Updated Rules and Simplified Procedures in 2025
As of October 2025, Indian citizens still require a visa to enter mainland China for tourism, business, study, or work purposes. There is no visa-free entry agreement between India and China. However, the process for obtaining a China visa for Indians has become significantly easier this year.
According to the Chinese Embassy, over 85,000 China visas for Indians were issued in the first half of 2025, signaling renewed people-to-people exchanges. Key updates include the removal of mandatory online appointments, waived biometric submissions for short stays, and reduced visa fees valid until December 31, 2025.
It’s important to note that no visa-on-arrival is available for Indian nationals, and special restrictions apply for residents of Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, where stapled visas may be issued after embassy verification.
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Types of China Visa for Indians
China offers multiple visa types depending on the visitor’s purpose. Below are the most common categories:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity & Stay | Entries |
| L (Tourist) | Sightseeing, family/friends visit | 30–90 days stay, 3–6 months validity | Single/Double/Multiple |
| M (Business) | Trade fairs, meetings, commercial work | 30–180 days, 3–12 months validity | Single/Multiple |
| Z (Work) | Employment in China | 30 days initial, extendable to 1 year | Single |
| X1/X2 (Student) | Education (X1: >180 days; X2: ≤180 days) | As per course | Single |
| Q1/Q2 (Family) | Family visits (Q1: long-term, Q2: short-term) | Up to 180 days | Single/Multiple |
| G (Transit) | Transit via Chinese airports | 24–144 hours | Single |
Eligibility Criteria for China Visa for Indians
To apply for a China visa for Indians, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6-month validity and 2 blank pages).
- Clean criminal record and no prior visa violations.
- Sufficient financial proof to cover travel expenses.
- Clear purpose of travel supported by documents.
- For minors, birth certificates and parental consent letters are required.
- Non-Indians residing in India must provide proof of legal stay (e.g., valid Indian visa).
While travel insurance isn’t mandatory, it’s recommended with coverage up to USD 50,000 for emergencies.
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Documents Required for China Visa for Indians
Applicants must submit original documents along with photocopies, in English or Chinese (translated where needed).
General Documents (Applicable to All Types)
- Passport (original + photocopy)
- Completed visa form via COVA portal (Chinese Online Visa Application)
- Two recent passport-size photos (33x48mm, white background)
- Proof of residence (Aadhaar, voter ID, or utility bill)
- Recent bank statements (3–6 months, ₹1–2 lakh minimum balance)
- Cover letter explaining travel purpose and itinerary
Specific Documents by Visa Type
- Tourist (L): Hotel booking, return flight tickets, or invitation letter from host.
- Business (M): Invitation from Chinese company with seal, purpose, and duration.
- Work (Z): Job offer letter and government work permit.
- Student (X): Admission letter and JW201/JW202 forms.
- Family (Q): Invitation from relative with relationship proof.
- Transit (G): Onward ticket to third country and entry visa proof (if needed).
Incomplete or incorrect documents are among the top reasons for rejection.
China Visa Fees for Indians (2025)
Visa fees have been reduced until December 31, 2025. Payments are accepted in cash or demand draft at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). A service charge of ₹1,000–1,500 applies, with express processing costing extra.
| Visa Type | Fee (INR) |
| Single Entry | ₹2,900 |
| Double Entry | ₹4,400 |
| 6-Month Multiple | ₹5,900 |
| 12-Month Multiple | ₹7,200 (approx.) |
How to Apply for China Visa for Indians
Since 2025, applications are processed only through CVASC offices — direct embassy submissions are not allowed.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Fill Online Form: Visit the COVA portal and complete the form.
- Gather Documents: Assemble all required papers per visa category.
- Submit Application: Visit the nearest CVASC (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai) without prior appointment.
- Pay Fees: Submit payment and get a receipt.
- Biometrics: Waived for short-term visas; otherwise, fingerprints required.
- Track Application: Use the CVASC tracking number and collect your passport after approval.
Processing Time:
- Regular: 4–6 working days
- Express: 2–3 days
- Urgent: 1 day (subject to embassy approval)
Apply at least one month in advance to avoid delays during public holidays.
Useful Tips and FAQs
- Visa Rejection Reasons: Wrong visa category, missing documents, or unverifiable invitation.
- Transit Exemption: Indians transiting in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou for 24–144 hours with onward flight tickets may not need a visa.
- Post-Arrival Registration: Travelers staying more than 24 hours must register with local police.
- COVID-19 Rules: No test or quarantine required as of 2025, but check before departure.
- Assistance: Agencies like VFS or Teleport can help with document checks for an extra fee.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a China visa for Indians in 2025 is now faster, simpler, and more traveler-friendly. With reduced fees and waived biometrics, China is clearly encouraging tourism and cultural exchange. Applicants should ensure documentation accuracy and apply early for smooth approval.
For the latest details, visit the Chinese Embassy in India or the official CVASC website.