China is a magical destination brimming with history. If you're an Italian citizen planning to travel to China, one of the most important things you'll need to prepare is your China Tourist Visa application. Keep reading to find out more!
Navigating the China Tourist Visa application process can be a daunting task, especially if it's your first time traveling to the country! In this article, we’ll explain all you need to know about:
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If Italian citizens need a visa for China
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How to apply for the China Tourist Visa online
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China Tourist Visa fees
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How long the China Tourist Visa is valid
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Processing time for the China Tourist Visa in 2023
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China Tourist Visa requirements and necessary documents
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Common mistakes to avoid when applying for your China Tourist Visa
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How to prepare for the China Tourist Visa interview in Italy
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The latest entry and exit requirements for China
Let’s explore these topics to get your China Tourist Visa fast, easily, and stress-free!
Do Italian citizens need a visa for China?
In short, yes, Italian citizens need a visa to travel to China for tourism purposes. Italy is not one of the visa-exempt countries for China, which means that all Italian citizens must apply for a visa before traveling to China.
China Visa categories explained: Which visa to choose for your trip
Italy and China have a great history of trade and cultural exchange dating back centuries. As of today, thousands of Italian citizens visit China every year for business or tourism purposes.
Here are some of the different Chinese visas to help you choose the right visa for your trip:
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China Tourist Visa: As mentioned above, the tourist visa is issued to Italian citizens who intend to visit China for tourism purposes only. It can be issued for single or multiple entries. Italian citizens must provide proof of hotel bookings and a return ticket to apply for a tourist visa.
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China Business Visa: A business visa is issued to Italian citizens who intend to visit China for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiations. A business visa can be issued for single or multiple entries. Italian citizens must provide a letter of invitation from their Chinese business partner to apply for a business visa.
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China Student Visa: A student visa is issued to Italian citizens who plan to study in China for an extended period. The student visa is valid for 180 days to one year and can be extended while in China. Italian citizens must provide an acceptance letter from a Chinese educational institution to apply for a student visa.
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China Work Visa: A work visa is issued to Italian citizens who plan to work in China. The work visa is valid for 90 days to one year and can be extended upon arrival in China. Italian citizens must provide a work permit and an invitation letter from a Chinese employer to apply for a work visa.
More about the China Tourist Visa
The China Tourist Visa, also known as an L visa, is a type of travel document that allows foreign citizens, including Italians, to travel to China for tourism purposes. The visa can be applied for online and is issued by the Chinese government.
However, it is still necessary to visit an embassy to attend an interview. Sounds complicated? Don’t worry, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions and all the tips and info you need for a successful China Visa application!
Validity of the China Tourist Visa
You can choose from three different options when applying with iVisa:
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Single-entry visa: Valid for 1 year after issued and allows you to stay in China for up to 90 days per entry. It’s perfect for Italian travelers going on a short holiday in the country.
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Double-entry visa: Valid for 1 year after issued and allows you to stay in China for up to 90 days per entry. You can enter China twice with this visa, and is perfect if you’d like to, for example, visit Hong Kong and re-enter China afterward to continue exploring.
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Multiple-entry visa: Valid for 1 year after issued and allows you to stay in China for up to 90 days per entry. It is the perfect choice for travelers on a backpacking or long-term trip, or people visiting friends and family in the country for longer periods of time.
What is the China Tourist Visa processing time in 2023?
The processing time for a China Tourist Visa for Italian citizens varies depending on the visa type and the embassy/consulate where you submit your application.
The standard processing of the Chinese Tourist Visa can take up to 30 days from the moment your visa application form is submitted to the government.
That’s why we recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid issues and delays. When applying with iVisa, you’ll get support from our visa experts to carefully prepare and review your application.
Our service avoids errors, incomplete information, and subsequent delays or rejections.
China Tourist Visa fee for Italian citizens
The cost of a China Tourist Visa for Italian citizens varies depending on the number of entries you need and the processing time. As of 2023, the following fees apply:
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Single-entry visa: USD $199.99
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Double-entry visa: USD $199.99
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Multiple-entry visa: USD $199.99
These are the government fees, and exclude any iVisa processing fees, which depend on the visa and nationality.
When applying with iVisa, the processing fees include a step-by-step guide to the application form, interview, and required documents. Furthermore, we offer a simple and concise application form, up to 50% shorter than the government!
It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest visa fees through our Visa Checker Tool.
China Tourist Visa application: How to apply from Italy
While applying for the China Tourist Visa can seem complicated, it won’t be with our support. We have broken down the application process into a few easy steps:
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Step 1: Start the online application process here. Fill out the necessary details, such as your passport information, travel itinerary, and more.
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Step 2: Prepare all the necessary documents, including a copy of your Italian passport and a passport photo.
If you don’t have a photo that meets the requirements, check out our digital photo service to get an affordable, government-compliant photo from the comfort of your home.
We will also send you a complete list of documents to gather before submitting your application, and one of our experts will review each one.
- Step 3: Submit your application and attend an interview in person at the China embassy or consular office, according to the instructions and tips we have sent you by email.
Get your China Tourist Visa hassle-free with iVisa!
Applying for a Chinese Visa has never been easier for Italian citizens!
With iVisa, you can complete the China visa application form in under 10 minutes. What can you expect from us:
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Simple application form - no confusing questions or legal jargon.
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Government compliant - we ensure all documents are compliant with the government requirements.
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Support with gathering documents - we’ll give you a complete list of documents you need to apply.
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Step-by-step instructions - our visa experts will be there for you every step of the way.
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Interview tips - we’ll give you all the ins and outs of the interview process at the Chinese embassy.
Documents required to apply for China Tourist Visa for Italian citizens
To be eligible for a China Tourist Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
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Valid current passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages remaining. Also include a copy of any past Chinese Visas (if applicable).
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A completed visa application form.
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Travel itinerary, round trip airline ticket, and a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from your host in China.
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Sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in China, supported by bank statements from the last three months.
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A recent passport-size photo.
Sometimes, other supporting documents are needed. For example:
- Chinese citizens residing overseas or those who have obtained foreign citizenship should submit a copy of previous Chinese passports, Chinese permanent residence permit, or previous Chinese visas.
Once you apply online with iVisa, we’ll send you a full list of required documents based on your situation.
China Tourist Visa requirements for children
For children under 18 years old, a copy of the birth certificate, copies of both parents' passports or ID cards, and a signed letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians are also required.
Passport requirements for the Chinese Visa application
When applying for a Chinese visa, Italian citizens must ensure their passport meets certain requirements. The following are the passport requirements for the Chinese visa application:
Validity: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into China.
Blank pages: The passport must have at least two blank pages.
Damage: The passport must be in good condition and free from any damage, such as tears or water spills.
Previous Chinese visas: If the applicant has previously held a Chinese visa, copies of the visa in the original passport must be submitted.
Photo requirements for the Chinese Visa application
It’s important that each document is compliant with the Chinese government’s requests. Applicants must submit a photo of themselves when applying for the Tourist Visa.
Here are the exact specifications of the photo, which can also be viewed on the government website:
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It must be a color photo with white background, without a frame.
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It must be recently taken, ideally within the last 6 months.
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The size must be 48mm x 33mm. The width of the applicant's head can’t exceed 22mm, and the height of the applicant's head can’t exceed 33mm.
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The applicant should face the camera, and the entire face must be clearly visible. The facial expression should be neutral, with eyes open, lips closed and ears visible.
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Make sure there are no extra objects visible in the photo. Glasses are allowed except thick-rimmed, tinted, or glare glasses. Hats or other headwear are only permitted for religious reasons, but facial features should not be covered.
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Damaged or stained photos are not accepted, and ensure no visible shadow over the face.
When taking a photo with the digital photo service of iVisa, you don’t have to worry about these strict requirements! Take a photo of your mobile phone from the comfort of your own couch.
The service fees are one of the most affordable and the best part is that all your photos will be government-compliant for your specific destination!
How to prepare for the interview at the Chinese embassy in Italy
If you are an Italian citizen applying for a China tourist visa, you may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the China tourist visa interview:
- Review your application: Go through your visa application form and any supporting documents to ensure that all information provided is accurate and up-to-date.
Our visa experts will carefully review your application to make sure all documentation is complete.
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Know your itinerary: Be familiar with your travel plans and be able to explain your itinerary, including the purpose of your visit and the places you plan to visit in China.
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Dress appropriately: Dress professionally for the interview. Avoid wearing casual clothes like hoodies or revealing clothing.
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Be confident and courteous: Greet the interviewer politely and answer their questions honestly. Do not argue or be defensive, and always maintain a respectful tone.
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Bring all the necessary documents: Bring all the necessary documents, including your original passport, visa application form, supporting documents, and any other requested items.
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Practice the interview: Practice answering potential interview questions with a friend or family member to help you feel more comfortable and prepared. However, don’t learn answers by heart, as it may come across too rehearsed.
It is important to remember that the China Tourist Visa interview is an opportunity for the interviewer to verify your information and assess your eligibility for the visa. If you are honest and confident, you’ll have nothing to worry about!
When applying for the Tourist or Business Visa with iVisa, you’ll get all the expert tips and guidance you need to properly prepare for the visit to the Chinese embassy.
Common mistakes to avoid when applying for the China Tourist Visa
When applying for a China Tourist Visa, there are some common mistakes that applicants often make, which can delay the visa processing time or even result in visa rejection.
Here are some mistakes often made by applicants:
- Incomplete or inaccurate application: Ensure your visa application form is filled out completely and accurately. Any errors or omissions may delay processing or result in visa rejection.
Of course, our experts will review your application carefully to ensure that it’s error-free and complete.
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Insufficient supporting documents: Be sure to provide all the necessary supporting documents as required by the Chinese embassy or consulate. All documents must match the information on your passport and be relevant to your travel purpose.
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Applying too late: Don’t leave your application to the last minute! Allow sufficient time for visa processing and avoid applying too close to your planned departure date. We recommend applying at least a month in advance.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful China Tourist Visa application.
It is always wise to consult with a reputable visa service provider such as iVisa if you are unsure about the application process or have any questions regarding the requirements.
More questions about traveling to China?
We hope this guide gives you all the information you need for a successful application. Don’t forget to read our ultimate China travel guide for tips about when to travel, currency, and daily budget in China.
If you have additional questions about the China Tourist Visa, contact our expert customer service team via online chat or email at help@iVisa. No question is too difficult!