Visa Info
China Visa for Indian Passport Holders
Indian nationals need a tourist (L) visa for mainland China, applied for through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre.
Passport validity
At least 6 months from date of entry, with blank pages
Stay duration
Typically up to 30 days per visit, single or multiple entry
Fee
Visa fee set by the Chinese Consulate plus service centre charges
Processing time
About 4–7 working days for standard processing
Official source & latest news
Documents required
- Passport valid for 6+ months with blank pages
- Visa application form with recent photograph
- Confirmed flight and hotel bookings
- Detailed travel itinerary
- Invitation letter, if visiting for business or family reasons
Step-by-step: how to apply
- 1
Complete the visa application form
Fill in the China visa application form with personal and travel details.
- 2
Book an appointment at the Visa Application Service Centre
Submit your application in person at the centre serving your region.
- 3
Provide biometrics
Fingerprints are typically collected as part of the application.
- 4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the applicable fee at the centre.
- 5
Track and collect your passport
Once processed, collect your passport with the visa affixed.
Good to know
- • China has periodically offered visa-free transit and short-stay pilots for some nationalities — check if any current policy applies to Indian passport holders before applying for a full visa.
- • Itineraries with clear hotel and flight bookings help avoid processing delays.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a China e-Visa for Indians?
Standard tourist visas for Indian nationals are processed through the Visa Application Service Centre rather than a simple e-Visa — check current policy for any changes.
Do I need travel insurance for a China visa?
It's not always mandatory but is commonly recommended and sometimes requested as supporting documentation.
This guide is general information for Indian passport holders, not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, documents and processing times change often — always confirm current requirements on the China government's official immigration or embassy website, or through a licensed visa agent, before applying or booking non-refundable travel.