Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Argentina

1. Visa Necessity for Argentine Travelers

Argentine citizens must obtain a valid visa before traveling to mainland China, except for holders of diplomatic or official passports, who are eligible for visa-free entry under a bilateral agreement. For ordinary passport holders, visas are required for tourism, business, study, or work purposes. Transit exemptions apply:
  • 24-hour visa-free transit: Available at all international airports.
  • 144-hour transit: Permitted through major cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) for travelers from 53 countries, including Argentina.

2. 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 form.
    • Recent passport photo (48mm × 33mm, white background).
    • Flight itinerary and hotel reservations.
    • Financial proof (e.g., bank statements, employment letter).

Business Visa (M/F 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 + Admission Notice).
  • X2: Short-term study (≤180 days; requires Admission notice).

Family Visit Visa (S/Q Visa)

  • S1: Long-term visits (>180 days) for immediate family of residents.
  • S2: Short-term visits (≤180 days; requires invitation from family in China).

3. Application Process

  1. Online Application:
    • Complete the COVA form and print the signed confirmation page.
    • No prior appointment is required; applicants can directly visit the embassy/consulate.
  2. Document Submission:
    • Submit documents (passport, photos, proof of purpose) at the Chinese Embassy in Buenos Aires or consulates in Córdoba and Mendoza.
  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).

4. 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).

5. Embassy and Consulate Contacts

  • Embassy of China in Buenos Aires:
  • Consulates-General:
    • Córdoba: Avenida República de Paraguay 126, Córdoba
    • Mendoza: Avenida San Martín 1144, Mendoza

6. Key Tips

  • Apply Early: Submit applications 4–6 weeks before travel.
  • Document Accuracy: Ensure documents are in English/Spanish and meet Chinese standards.
  • Health Requirements: Long-term stays (>6 months) require a medical exam.
  • Stay Compliance: Overstaying visas may result in fines or future entry bans.
  • Transit Policies: Confirm eligibility for 144-hour transit exemptions before travel.

 

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