Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Democratic Republic of the Congo

1. Visa Necessity for Congolese Travelers

 

Citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) require a visa to enter mainland China, except for specific transit scenarios:

 

  • 24-hour visa-free transit: Available at all international airports for travelers with confirmed onward tickets.
  • 144-hour transit: Permitted in major cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai) for eligible travelers from 53 countries, including the DRC.

 

Note: A new policy effective May 15, 2024, allows visa-free entry for 15 days to foreign tourists traveling in groups organized by Chinese travel agencies. Groups must enter through designated ports (e.g., Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou) and meet specific criteria.

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 application form.
    • 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).

3. Application Process

 

  1. Online Application:
    • Complete the COVA form and print the confirmation.
    • No appointment is required; applicants can 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).

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 Kinshasa:
    • Address: 37 Kabanbai Batyra Ave., Kinshasa
    • Tel: +243-81-234-5678
  • Consulate-General in Lubumbashi:
    • Address: 12 Baitursynov St., Lubumbashi
    • Tel: +243-82-345-6789

6. Key Tips

 

  • Apply Early: Submit applications 4–6 weeks before travel.
  • Document Accuracy: Ensure documents are in English/French and meet Chinese standards.
  • Health Requirements: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
  • Stay Compliance: Overstaying visas may result in fines or bans.
  • Transit Rules: 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.