Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Algeria

1. Visa-Free Agreement for Diplomatic and Service Passport Holders

 

Under a bilateral agreement effective since March 13, 2019, Algerian citizens holding diplomatic or service passports enjoy visa-free entry to China for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to visits for tourism, business, or family purposes. However, visas are still required for activities such as work, long-term study, or residency.

2. Visa Requirements for Ordinary Passport Holders

 

Algerian citizens with ordinary passports must obtain a visa before traveling to China, except for eligible transit cases:

 

  • 24-hour transit: Visa-free at all international airports.
  • 144-hour transit: Available in major cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai) for travelers from 53 countries, including Algeria.

3. Key Visa Types and Eligibility

Tourist Visa (L Visa)

 

  • Validity: 90 days from issuance (single entry).
  • Maximum Stay: 30 days per entry.
  • Required Materials:
    • Passport valid for ≥6 months with 2 blank pages.
    • Completed COVA application.
    • Recent passport photo (48mm × 33mm, white background).
    • Flight itinerary and hotel reservations.
    • Financial proof (bank statements, employment letter).
    • Optional: Invitation letter from a Chinese host (for visits to relatives/friends).

Business Visa (M Visa)

 

  • Validity: Up to 1 year (multiple entries).
  • Purpose: Trade fairs, business meetings, or commercial activities.
  • Required Materials:
    • Invitation letter from a Chinese company/organization.
    • Business credentials (e.g., company registration documents).

Work Visa (Z Visa)

 

  • Validity: Matches employment contract duration (up to 1 year).
  • Requirements:
    • Chinese work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources.
    • Medical exam for stays exceeding 6 months.

Study Visa (X1/X2 Visa)

 

  • X1: Long-term study (>180 days; requires JW201/JW202 form + 录取通知书).
  • X2: Short-term study (≤180 days; requires 入学通知书).

Family Visit Visa (S/Q Visa)

 

  • S1: Long-term visits (>180 days) for immediate family of Chinese residents.
  • S2: Short-term visits (≤180 days; invitation letter and proof of relationship required).

4. Application Process

 

  1. Online Application:
    • Complete the COVA form and print the confirmation.
    • No appointment needed; submit directly to the embassy/consulate.
  2. Document Submission:
    • Submit passport, photos, and supporting documents (e.g., invitation letters, travel proof).
  3. Biometric Data:
    • Fingerprint collection mandatory for applicants aged 14–70.
  4. Processing Time:
    • Standard: 4–6 weeks.
    • Express: 3–5 business days (additional fee).

5. Fees and Payment

 

  • Tourist Visa: Approximately USD 120 (single entry).
  • Business Visa: USD 145–204 (depending on entry type).
  • Payment Methods: Cashier’s checks, debit cards, or money orders (no cash/credit cards).

6. Embassy and Consulate Contacts

 

  • Embassy of China in Algiers:
    • Address: 46 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi, Algiers
    • Tel: +213-21-69-27-24
  • Consulate-General in Oran:
    • Address: 10 Boulevard Mohamed Khedda, Oran
    • Tel: +213-41-51-52-64

7. Key Tips

 

  • Apply Early: Submit applications 4–6 weeks before travel.
  • Document Accuracy: Ensure documents are in English/Arabic and meet Chinese standards.
  • Stay Compliance: Overstaying visas may result in fines or bans.
  • Transit Rules: Confirm eligibility for 144-hour transit exemptions before travel.
  • Health Insurance: Recommended for all visits, especially long-term stays.

 

For updates, visit the Chinese Consular Service Network or contact your nearest diplomatic mission. Always verify requirements before travel, as policies may evolve.