China Tourist Visa for Indian citizens: How to apply

Important Update: We are not currently offering services to apply for the China Tourist or Business visas. If you have an outstanding order with us we will continue processing it as usual.

China offers travelers from all over the world a rich blend of history, culture, and incredible experiences. If you’re an Indian citizen planning to explore this fascinating country, the first step is to apply for a China Tourist Visa.

This guide will walk you through what you need to know about the China Tourist Visa application process. Let’s begin your journey to China by getting your visa application ready.

Do Indian citizens need a visa for China?

Yes, all Indian citizens must have a visa before traveling to China. Whether your plans include seeing Beijing’s ancient architecture, experiencing Shanghai’s modern wonders, or visiting family and friends, securing the right visa is essential.

In this blog, we’re going to focus on the China Tourist Visa.

What is the China Tourist Visa for Indian citizens?

The China Tourist Visa (L Visa) is a permit granted by the Chinese government, allowing Indian citizens to enter the country for tourism purposes. This includes activities like sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or attending cultural events.

The L Visa can be issued for single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry, depending on your travel needs.

Learn more about the China Tourist Visa

China Tourist Visa difficulty rating: Moderately difficult

The China Tourist Visa application process for Indians has a difficulty score of 48/100. It’s relatively simple but requires attention to detail.

You’ll need to answer 51 questions and submit 2 documents—your Indian passport and a passport photo. The application process takes approximately 1 hour to complete.

Many Indian applicants find the "residence ZIP code" question challenging. In fact, close to 200 applicants have encountered issues with this question, so it’s important to double-check the accuracy of the information you provide.

iVisa pro tip: When completing your visa application, make sure to have all your address information, including the residence ZIP code, ready and accurate. If you’re uncertain about the exact ZIP code, confirm it in advance to avoid delays. Double-check all your details before submitting to improve your chances of approval.

How long is the China Tourist Visa valid for Indian citizens?

The validity of a China Tourist Visa can vary. Typically, a single-entry visa is valid for 90 days, while a double-entry visa is valid for 9 months, and a multiple-entry visa is valid for one year.

Each entry allows you to stay in China for up to 30 to 60 days, depending on the visa you choose.

Am I eligible to get a China Tourist Visa in India?

To be eligible for a China Tourist Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• A valid passport: Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you plan to leave China and should have at least two blank pages for the visa.

• Proof of onward travel: You need to provide evidence of your return ticket or an onward journey to demonstrate your planned departure from China.

• Financial proof: Show recent bank statements or payslips as evidence that you can support yourself financially during your stay in China.

• Travel plans: Your application should include details about your accommodation and a list of the destinations you intend to visit.

China Tourist Visa requirements for Indian citizens

To apply for the China Tourist Visa, Indian citizens need to provide the following:

• Your Indian passport

• A recent passport photo

• A duly completed visa application form, which you can fill out online

• Copies of any previous Chinese visas or passports if you have previously held a Chinese visa or if you were once a Chinese citizen and have since changed your nationality

• Bank statements or a letter of invitation from a sponsor in China to prove your ability to financially support your stay

Depending on your individual circumstances, additional documents might be required, such as a letter from your employer stating your position, salary, and approved leave or a business registration certificate.

China Tourist Visa for children of Indian citizens

If you’re applying for a visa for a child, additional documents are required. These include:

• A valid passport for the child.

• Written consent from both parents if the child is traveling alone or with only one parent.

• Additional documents proving the parent-child relationship, such as a birth certificate.

How to apply for the China Tourist Visa in India

Applying for the China Tourist Visa through our service is simple. Here’s how it works:

• Step 1: Enter your personal and travel information on our website or the iVisa app.

• Step 2: Make sure your details are correct, then pay the iVisa service fee using a credit card, debit card, PayPal, or Venmo.

• Step 3: Complete the rest of the application and upload your documents. We’ll book your visa appointment at your preferred Chinese Visa Application Centre (CVAC).

• Step 4: Submit your application and the documents during your visa appointment. You’ll also need to provide your biometric data and pay the government visa fee. You’ll be informed of when to collect your passport.

When your application is approved, the visa will be affixed to your passport when you collect it.

China Tourist Visa fees for Indian citizens

The government visa fee for the China Tourist Visa depends on the type of visa you choose and its validity period. We'll show you the current cost of the visa when you start your application so that you're well-prepared before your visa appointment.

If you choose to use our service, there is an additional fee of USD $199.99, which includes everything from reviewing your documents to scheduling your appointment.

China Tourist Visa processing time

The time it takes to process a China Tourist Visa for Indian citizens can vary based on the current workload at the Chinese embassy or consulate. Typically, the processing time is 4 working days after your application has been submitted to the Chinese authorities.

Keep in mind that securing a visa appointment might take some time due to the CVAC's busy schedule. Therefore, we recommend starting the application process at least 1-2 months before your planned travel date.

Why use our service for your China Tourist Visa?

Applying for a visa can seem complicated, but with our service, you're in good hands. We offer a simplified process compared to the government website that ensures your application is accurate and complete.

With our expert team reviewing your application, we have achieved a 100% approval rate for China Tourist Visas for Indian citizens. This means you can apply confidently, knowing that our service greatly increases your chances of success.

Using iVisa was smooth sailing. They were thorough in checking my documents, which gave me peace of mind. I received my China Tourist Visa without any issues, and the process was quicker than expected. I’d definitely use their service again for future trips." — Anjali, India

What if my China Tourist Visa is denied?

If your visa application is denied, it’s important to review the reason provided by the Chinese embassy or consulate. In many cases, the denial might be due to missing information or minor errors.

We can assist you with reapplying and help correct any mistakes in your first submission. While the Chinese authorities make the final decision, our service significantly improves your chances of getting the visa.

We have a rejection rate of 0%, so if you provide accurate information, your application should be approved.

Contact us

If you need more information about how to apply for the China Tourist Visa our customer support team is available to assist. Contact us any time via WhatsApp or iVisa chat.