How to Get China Visa from India? Fees, Visa, Steps & More 2025

Written by

Mynaz Altaf

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Sep 05,2025

How to Get China Visa from India? Fees, Visa, Steps & More- TerraTern

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However, Indian citizens can seek a Chinese visa by applying at the Chinese Visa Application Service Centres in New Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata. How to get China visa from India is quite simple since it presupposes filling in an online COVA form, preparing the necessary documents, and submitting them directly with the help of biometric data collection. Understanding how to get a Chinese visa from India has become crucial for the increasing number of Indians travelling to China for business, tourism, and educational purposes.

The process of getting a Chinese visa from India has been streamlined in 2025, with walk-in applications now accepted since November 2023, eliminating the need for appointment booking. Three operational service centres handle different jurisdictional areas across India, making it easier for travellers seeking to visit China.

 

How to Get China Tourist Visa from India? Updated Guide 2025

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To learn how to get China tourist visa from India, it is important to carefully plan and understand the requirements of a leisure traveler. The L visa or tourist visa is aimed at people who are visiting China to visit friends or relatives, carry out a tourism-related activity or see the sights. To learn how to get a China tourist visa from India is to understand the single entry and multiple entry options that can be acquired by Indian travellers. 

Tourist visas can also be single and multiple entry; the general validity of single entry is 30 days. But based on your travel history and certain conditions, you can have longer periods of validity or entry permissions. Successful applications for a China tourist visa from India boil down to showing that you have good travel intentions, have adequate financial capability, and that you have documented your intended tour program.

Essential Requirements for Tourist Visas

The process how to get China tourist visa from India begins with the understanding of what the fundamental requirements are that every tourist visa seeker needs to meet. Applicants for a tourist visa have to give specific day-by-day itineraries of where they intend to visit and stay in China. Bookings of the hotel should also be verified and even translated into the Chinese language so that they can be processed better. 

The requirements of financial proving are also strict when it comes to learning how to get China tourist visa from India and the applicants must show a minimum bank balance of 300,000 maintained in the last six months. Tourism requires documents that specify:

  • Timetable as to where and when to go.

  • Reserved round trip flight tickets with dates of entry and departure.

  • Hotel bookings for the whole stay period.

  • Comprehensive China travel coverage insurance.

  • Bank Statements with a minimum balance of 3 lakh and above are kept.

  • A letter of introduction for the purpose of the visit and the travel plan.

Single vs Multiple Entry Tourist Visas

In applications of how to get China tourist visa from India, the applicants have to select between single and multiple entries. Single-entry tourist visas of 30 days are usually granted, although multiple-entry visas can be granted to frequent travellers or visitors with special reasons to visit more than once. First-time applicants usually receive single entry visas, while repeat visitors with good compliance history may be eligible for multiple entry permissions when applying for how to get china tourist visa from India.

Also Read: Difference Between Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa 

How to Get China Business Visa from India (M Visa)?

Understanding how to get business visa for China from India involves a more complex application process than tourist visas, requiring additional corporate documentation and business justifications. To understand how to get a business visa for China from India, it is important to learn that a business visa has several benefits over a tourist visa, such as a higher validity period, multiple entries, and even the ability to conduct business in China legally. To know how to get a China business visa from India means to know how to prepare the requirements and how to prepare the documents that are important and essential in order to get the business visa.

Business Invitation Letter Requirements

An invitation letter by a Chinese organization is the pillar of any how to get business visa for China from India application. The document should be official, elaborated, and include certain information concerning the inviting company, the purpose of the visit, duration of stay and financial liability of the inviting company on the expenses of the visitor. To know how to get business visa for China from India, the invitation letter must contain detailed information about:

  • Full information of the inviting Chinese company, including registration.

  • Inviting entity with verification of the Business license number.

  • Nature and purpose of business activities that are to be carried out.

  • Length of time and specific dates of proposed visit and detailed schedule.

  • Budget statement of financial responsibility, including expense coverage.

  • Contact details of the responsible persons, including direct phone numbers.

Canton Fair and Trade Show Applications

Learning how to get business visa for China from India for trade shows like the Canton Fair involves additional requirements and expedited processing options. The trade show paperwork necessary in the process of how to get China business visa from India will include:

  • An invitation issued by the organisers of the trade fair containing information about the event.

  • Confirmation of registration and booking of booths, including payment receipts.

  • Company description and product lists which prove the character of the business.

  • Past history of trade fairs with business legitimacy.

  • Business itinerary with dates and meeting schedules in fair detail.

What Are the Different Types of China Visas Available for Indians in 2025?

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In understanding how to get China business visa from India, it is useful to learn the entire scope of visa types so that an applicant can choose the best one in accordance with his needs. China has one of the most extensive sets of visa types that fit different travel purposes and plans.

Visa Type

Purpose

Validity

Entry Type

Processing Time

L (Tourist)

Tourism, visiting friends

30-90 days

Single/Multiple

3-4 weeks

M (Business)

Commercial activities

30-90 days

Multiple

3-4 weeks

F (Exchange)

Academic/cultural exchange

30-90 days

Single/Multiple

3-4 weeks

X1 (Study)

Long-term study (>180 days)

Multiple entry

Multiple

4-5 weeks

X2 (Study)

Short-term study (<180 days)

Single entry

Single

3-4 weeks

Z (Work)

Employment in China

Variable

Multiple

4-6 weeks

G (Transit)

Transit through China

24-144 hours

Single

1-2 weeks

 

Choosing the Right Visa Category

Choosing the correct type of visa is essential in terms of how to get a China visa from India, and not breaking the law during your stay in China. The wrong type of visa can result in the rejection of the application or inconveniences in the process of entering and staying in China. Factors to be considered in deciding how to get china visa from india applications:

  • The main reason you have visited China.

  • Length of planned residency period

  • Visit frequency per year.

  • Activities that you intend to do in China.

  • Personal or Sponsoring entity in China.

Read More: US Visa Bulletin September: Green Card Setback Details

 

What Documents Do You Need for China Visa Application?

Successfully completing how to get China visa from India requires meticulous document preparation and organization. The documentation requirements vary by visa category, but certain core documents are mandatory for all applications. Understanding these requirements and preparing documents correctly significantly improves approval chances and reduces processing delays. Document preparation for how to get China visa from India should begin well in advance of your intended travel dates, as obtaining some documents can take several weeks. 

Essential Documents for All China Visa Types

Anyhow, to get a China visa from India, the application should have basic documents which determine the identity of the applicant, his or her travelling capacity and their legal position in India. These are your basic documents, and they need to be prepared with a lot of detail. Prerequisites of all how to get china visa from india applications: 

  • COVA online application form and confirmation page containing a unique application ID.

  • An available original passport with 2 blank pages and a minimum of 6 months' validity.

  • New passport-sized 48mm x 33 mm white background photographs.

  • Evidence of being a resident of India (Aadhaar card, voter ID, or employment certificate)

  • Past Chinese visas, where applicable, indicate the compliance history and travelling behaviour.

  • On submission appointment at the visa center, biometric fingerprints are collected.

Additional Documents for Tourist Visas

Visa requirements that are unique to tourists, in terms of how to get China visa from India:

  • Day-by-day itinerary with opportunities to visit certain sites and arrangements.

  • Verified airline tickets with definite dates of entry and exit.

  • Hotel reservation for the entire stay period, preferably in the Chinese language.

  • 6 months' bank statements with a minimum 300,000 balance at all times.

  • Comprehensive medical insurance plus repatriation insurance.

  • Cover letter detailing the purpose of the visit and travel arrangements, including justification of travel arrangements.

Specific Requirements for Business Visas

Specific business documentations on how to get China visa from India:

  • Chinese entity business invitation letter containing all company registration information.

  • Current validity certificates of the company registration documents of the Indian employer.

  • Work certificate of present employment position and status.

  • Invitation business license of a Chinese company based on verification documents.

  • Registration of trade fairs in the case of commercial events with confirmation receipts.

  • Business stability and financial ability, as evidenced by corporate bank statements.

How to Apply for a China Visa from India: Step-by-Step Guide 2025?

The systematic approach to where to get China visa in India has a particular step-by-step procedure which has to be finished in the proper order. Knowing each step and the needs leads to delays being avoided and efficient application processing. In 2025, the process of how to get China visa from India has been simplified, and the requirement of making an appointment has been removed and is more digitally integrated. 

The total time how to get China visa from India application process would normally be 4-6 weeks long, excluding the time spent in preparing the documents. Having a proper plan for your application can help you get your visa long before you plan to travel.

Step 1: Complete Online COVA Application

COVA completion requirements for how to get China visa from India:

  • Accurate personal information matching passport details exactly without any discrepancies

  • Detailed travel plans including specific dates, destinations, and accommodation arrangements

  • Digital passport photograph meeting exact specifications (48mm x 33mm with white background)

  • Application ID generation for tracking and reference throughout the process

  • Form printing with a confirmation page for mandatory physical submission

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Application Center

Jurisdictional coverage for how to get China visa from India centers:

  • New Delhi Centre: Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir

  • Mumbai Centre: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana

  • Kolkata Centre: West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, Northeast states

Step 3: Prepare and Submit Documents

Submission process steps for how to get China visa from India:

  • Document organisation in the specific order specified by the visa centre

  • Walk-in submission (no appointment required since November 2023 policy change)

  • Document verification by experienced visa centre staff members

  • Biometric data collection, including fingerprints and high-quality photograph capture

  • Fee payment completion and receipt collection for tracking purposes

Step 4: Pay Visa Fees and Collect Receipt

Payment requirements for how to get China visa from India:

  • Cash-only policy (no credit cards, debit cards, or digital payments accepted)

  • Exact amount preparation to avoid change-related delays during processing

  • Receipt collection for application tracking and visa collection procedures

  • Express processing options are available for additional fees when urgency is required

Also Read: 7 Simple Steps for Getting a Japan Tourist Visa

How Much Does a China Visa Cost for Indians in 2025?

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Knowing the entire cost system of the way to obtain China visa from India will assist the applicant to plan their finances well and will prevent unnecessary surprises when applying. The fee payment has been revised in 2025 to capture better services and improvements in digital integration in all visa application centers.

China Visa Fee Structure 2025

Base visa fees by category for how to get China visa from India:

Visa Type

Government Fee

Service Centre Fee

Express Processing

Total Cost

Tourist (L)

Rs. 2900

Rs. 1,200

Rs. 1,800 (optional)

Rs. 4,100- Rs. 5,900

Business (M)

Rs. 2900

Rs. 1,200

Rs. 1,800 (optional)

Rs. 4,100- Rs. 5,900

Student (X1/X2)

Rs. 2900

Rs. 1,200

Rs. 1,800 (optional)

Rs. 4,100- Rs. 5,900

Work (Z)

Rs. 4350

Rs. 1,200

Rs. 1,800 (optional)

Rs. 5,550- Rs. 7,350

 

Payment Methods and Additional Costs

All visa application points of how to get China visa from India have a rigid policy of cash payment only. No place accepts credit cards, debit cards or digital payments in the whole of India. You are required to come with the precise sums of money to avoid wastage of time in the process of paying. Other service rates for how to get China visa from India:

  • Courier Delivery Service: 500 rupees to get a convenient passport delivery service.

  • SMS Status Updates: 50 rupees to send regular status updates through the mobile.

  • Photo Service, Professional: 200 rupees when submitted photographs fail to meet the specifications.

  • Extra Document Validation: 300 rupees charged to verify additional documents when necessary.

What Are the Processing Times for China Visas in 2025?

The time taken to process how to get China visa from India depends on a number of factors such as the type of visa to apply, completeness of application and seasonal demand trends. This knowledge of timelines assists the applicants in ensuring that they schedule their travel dates in advance and do not get into any last-minute trouble.

Standard Processing Timeline

Periodic updating of the processing time on how to get China visa from India:

  • Tourist Visa: 3-4 weeks between application and pick up at the visa offices.

  • Business Visas: 3-4 weeks, and there may be expedited services for Visa urgency.

  • Student Visas: 4-5 weeks since other verifications have to be done with educational institutions.

  • Work Visas: 4-6 weeks, including background check and work permit applications.

  • Express Processing: 3 working days at 1800 extra charge when possible.

What Factors Affect Visa Processing Speed for China

Processing speed influences for how to get China visa from India:

  • Document Completeness: Missing or incorrect documents cause significant processing delays

  • First Time vs Repeat Applicants: Previous visa holders often experience faster processing times

  • Peak Season Demand: Spring and autumn months see increased processing times

  • Security clearances: Some applicants may require additional background verification procedures

  • Holiday Schedules: Chinese national holidays pause all processing activities temporarily

What are the Common China Visa Application Mistakes to Avoid in 2025?

To successfully pass the how to get China visa from India, it is important to avoid the pitfalls that result in delays in the application process or even a complete rejection of the application. Training on common errors assists the applicant in making a better application and a high probability of getting their travel arrangements approved.

Document-Related Errors

Common documentation mistakes in how to get China visa from India applications:

  • Incomplete COVA forms with missing or inconsistent information entries

  • Poor quality photographs not meeting exact size or background specifications

  • Insufficient passport validity (less than 6 months remaining at travel time)

  • Missing supporting documents required for specific visa categories

  • Information inconsistencies between different submitted documents

  • Outdated bank statements or insufficient financial documentation proof

Common Application Process Mistakes

Process-related errors in how to get China visa from India applications:

  • Wrong visa centre selection based on jurisdictional requirements and residence

  • Inadequate processing time allowance for the intended travel date requirements

  • Insufficient financial documentation, not meeting minimum balance requirements consistently

  • Poor itinerary planning, lacking necessary detail or realistic timelines

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Expert Tips for a Successful China Visa Application in 2025

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The effective how to get China visa from India is based on proper preparation, detail, consideration, and knowledge of other vehicle requirements. These tested tips enhance acceptance rates as well as make the application process much easier.

Pre-Application Preparation

Preparation strategies for successful how to get China visa from India applications:

  • Start Early: Begin preparation 6-8 weeks before intended travel dates

  • Research Thoroughly: Understand specific requirements for your chosen visa category

  • Organise Documents: Create comprehensive checklists and gather all materials systematically

  • Verify Authenticity: Ensure all documents are current and properly formatted

  • Financial Preparation: Maintain required bank balances well in advance of application

  • Professional Photography: Obtain photographs meeting the exact Chinese visa specifications

During Application Submission

Submission best practices for how to get China visa from India:

  • Arrive Well-Prepared: Bring all documents organised in the exact required order

  • Professional Presentation: Dress appropriately and maintain courteous behaviour throughout

  • Complete Documentation: Double-check all required documents before submission

  • Accurate Information: Provide consistent and truthful information throughout the process

  • Follow Instructions: Adhere to all visa centre guidelines and procedures carefully

  • Keep Receipts: Maintain all documentation for tracking and collection purposes

Latest Trends and News About China Visa From India 2025

Here are the latest trends and news:

  • Walk-In Applications Accepted: Since November 2023, it is no longer required to book an appointment.

  • Three Service Centres are in Operation: New Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, which serve different jurisdictions.

  • Growth in Monetary Needs: Tourist visa applicants must have a minimum bank deposit of 3,00,000.

  • Online Integration: The presence of an online COVA system is required before the actual submission.

  • Biometric Collection: 10-finger scanning of most applicants with certain exemptions.

  • Express Processing Option: 3 days express processing at 1800 more.

  • Revised Document Requirements: In August 2024, some of the workflows were simplified.

 

Conclusion

The process of how to get China visa in India will be made easier in 2025 with in-person applications and digitalisation, but adequate preparation is the key to success. Indian applicants must pay attention to full documentation, sufficient processing time, and the selection of the appropriate jurisdictional visa centre according to their state of residence. The secret to success is to be well prepared, file the necessary documents correctly, and have the knowledge of what it takes for your type of visa, tourist or business.

After the abolishment of the prerequisite of appointments and improved internet, it has become more approachable and yet the documentation standards can be regarded as high. For official visa requirements and updates, visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre website. To know more about the China Visa from India, visit TerraTern now!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a China visa valid for Indians?

China visa validity varies by type and individual circumstances. Tourist visas typically offer 30 days single entry, while business visas can provide up to 90 days with multiple entry options. Some applicants may receive longer validity periods of 6 months to 1 year based on their travel history, purpose of visit, and compliance record. First-time applicants usually receive shorter validity periods, while frequent travelers with good compliance history may qualify for extended validity.

Can I extend my China visa while in China?

Yes, visa extensions are possible through local Public Security Bureau (PSB) offices in China, but approval is not guaranteed. Tourist visa extensions are typically limited to 30 additional days and require valid reasons such as medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Business visa extensions may be granted for legitimate commercial activities with proper documentation. The extension process requires submitting your passport, current visa, application forms, and supporting documents along with applicable fees

What happens if my China visa application gets rejected?

Rejected applications require complete resubmission with corrected documentation and new application fees. Common rejection reasons include incomplete documents, insufficient financial proof, unclear travel purposes, or inconsistent information across documents. You must address the specific rejection reasons before reapplying, which may involve gathering additional documentation or providing clearer explanations. The rejection does not permanently bar you from applying, but multiple rejections may require professional consultation to identify underlying issues

Do I need to show return tickets for China visa?

Yes, confirmed roundtrip flight tickets are mandatory for all China visa categories as proof of your intention to leave the country. The tickets must show clear entry and exit dates that align with your visa application and intended stay duration. Booking confirmations or e-tickets are acceptable, but they must be from legitimate airlines with confirmed reservations. This requirement demonstrates to Chinese authorities that you have definite plans to depart China within the permitted visa period

Can someone else submit my China visa application?

No, personal appearance is mandatory for all China visa applications due to biometric data collection requirements including fingerprinting and digital photography. However, once your visa is approved, authorized representatives can collect your passport on your behalf with proper authorization letters and identification. Some visa service agencies can assist with document preparation and submission guidance, but the applicant must personally appear for biometric collection. Children over 14 years must also appear in person for biometric data collection.

Is travel insurance mandatory for China visa?

While travel insurance is not strictly mandatory for all China visa categories, it is highly recommended and may be required during certain periods or health emergencies. Many visa officers view comprehensive travel insurance positively as it demonstrates financial preparedness and responsibility. The insurance should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation with minimum coverage amounts. Some visa categories or specific circumstances may explicitly require insurance, so check current requirements before applying.

How early should I apply for China visa before travel?

Apply 6-8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow adequate time for processing, document preparation, and potential delays. Standard processing takes 3-4 weeks, but additional time may be needed for document collection, especially business invitation letters from Chinese entities. Peak travel seasons (spring and autumn) may experience longer processing times due to increased application volumes. Express processing options are available for urgent travel needs at additional cost, reducing processing time to 3 working days.

Can I get China visa on arrival as an Indian citizen?

No, China does not offer visa on arrival for Indian passport holders under any circumstances. All visas must be obtained in advance through authorized Chinese Visa Application Service Centers in New Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata. Some cities offer transit visa exemptions for specific durations (24-144 hours) for passengers in transit to third countries, but these require meeting strict conditions. Always obtain your visa before traveling to avoid entry denial and flight disruptions.

What are the photo requirements for China visa application?

Photographs must be exactly 48mm x 33mm (approximately 2 inches x 1.3 inches) with a plain white background taken within the last 6 months. Your face must be clearly visible, centered, and occupy 70-80% of the photo with a neutral expression and closed mouth. Remove glasses, hats, or head coverings unless worn for religious purposes, and ensure no shadows or reflections appear on your face. Professional photo services at visa centers are available if your submitted photos don't meet specifications for an additional fee.

Do children need separate China visa applications?

Yes, all children regardless of age require individual visa applications with separate documentation and fees, though reduced fees may apply for minors. Children must have their own valid passports and cannot be included on their parents' visa applications. Children over 14 years must appear in person for biometric data collection, while younger children may be exempt from fingerprinting. Parents or guardians must accompany minors during application submission and provide additional consent documents and relationship proof.