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China issues a range of visa categories, each suited to a different purpose and length of stay. We'll help you find the right one, pre-check your paperwork against current Consulate requirements, and manage submission from start to finish.
Service fees start from $259 · Embassy fees start from $140 · Most applications complete in 2–6 weeks
China offers a range of visa categories, each suited to a specific purpose and length of stay. Tourists typically apply for an L visa; business travelers need an M visa. Other categories include the F visa for non-commercial research or cultural exchange, the Q and S visas for family visits, the X visa for students, the Z visa for employment, the R visa for high-level talent, and the C visa for transportation crew. Not sure which applies to you? Browse the visa types below, or contact us and we'll help you choose.
To keep your application moving smoothly, we pre-check every form and supporting document against current Consulate requirements before anything is submitted. Most applications are completed within 2–6 weeks, depending on the service level you choose and the Consulate's current workload — we recommend not purchasing travel tickets until your visa has been issued.
Twelve categories cover nearly every reason for traveling to China. Select yours for the full document checklist and fee schedule.
For sightseeing, visiting friends, or family travel. U.S. passport holders are often eligible for multiple entry, valid up to 10 years.
Learn more →For commercial and trade activities on behalf of a U.S. business. Issued single, double, or multiple entry, up to 10 years.
Learn more →For research, scientific, or cultural exchange when you won't be paid by a Chinese company or institution. Single entry only.
Learn more →For those with an approved Chinese work permit taking up employment in China. Single entry, then a multiple-entry Residence Permit.
Learn more →For high-level, qualified talent or applicants whose skills are urgently needed in China. Requirements are determined case-by-case.
Learn more →For students admitted to a Chinese program lasting more than 6 months. Multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
Learn more →For students admitted to a Chinese program lasting 6 months or less. Issued for single entry.
Learn more →For direct family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents settling in China long-term. Stay exceeds 180 days.
Learn more →For short visits to relatives who are Chinese citizens or Chinese permanent residents. Typically up to 120 days per visit.
Learn more →For immediate family joining a foreign national who lives, works, or studies in China long-term. Stay exceeds 180 days.
Learn more →For short-term visits to an immediate family member living in China. Typically 30–90 days per visit.
Learn more →For airline and ocean-vessel crew members, and accompanying family, on crew-related duties in China.
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