Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Ethiopia

1. Visa Types for Ethiopian Citizens

• Tourist Visa (L Visa):
  • Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
  • Stay Duration: Up to 30 days (non-extendable).
  • Requirements:
    • Passport valid for ≥6 months with 2 blank pages.
    • Two recent passport-sized photos (white background).
    • Hotel reservation or invitation letter.
    • Round-trip flight itinerary.
    • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements).
• Business Visa (M Visa):
  • Requires a Chinese invitation letter from a registered company/organization.
  • May include additional documents like business licenses or trade agreements.
• Work Visa (Z Visa):
  • Must obtain a Chinese work permit and invitation letter before applying.
  • Employer sponsorship is mandatory.
• Study Visa (X1/X2):
  • X1 for long-term study (JW201/JW202 form + admission letter).
  • X2 for short-term study (enrollment certificate).
• Transit Visa:
  • Required if staying in China for more than 24 hours.
  • Valid for up to 72 hours with confirmed onward tickets.

2. Visa-Free Policies

• Diplomatic/Government Passports:
  • Ethiopian citizens holding diplomatic or Official passport enjoy 30-day visa-free entry for tourism or business.
• Hong Kong/Macau Passports:
  • Hong Kong SAR passport holders: 180-day visa-free entry.
  • Macau SAR passport holders: Visa required.

3. Application Process

1. Online Application:
   • Complete the COVA form (https://cova.mfa.gov.cn).
2. Document Submission:
   • Submit documents to the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in Ethiopia (e.g., Addis Ababa) or via a visa service provider (e.g., VFS Global).
   • Include invitation letters (for business/study) or travel agency confirmation (for group tours).
3. Processing Time: 4–6 weeks; expedited services available for an extra fee.

4. Required Documents

• Tourist Visa:
  • Passport, photos, hotel booking, flight itinerary, bank statements.
• Business Visa:
  • Above + Chinese invitation letter, company business license.
• Work/Study Visas:
  • Additional permits (e.g., work permit, JW201 form).
• Transit Visa:
  • Valid onward ticket and proof of purpose.

5. Fees

• Tourist Visa: Approximately USD 120 (single entry).
• Business Visa: USD 145 (single entry).
• Transit Visas: Free if eligible.

6. Key Notes

• Entry Requirements:
  • Passport must have ≥6 months validity and 2 blank pages.
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required for entry into China 
  • COVID-19: No testing/vaccination mandates (as of 2025).
• Customs:
  • Declare cash over USD 5,000 or equivalent.
  • Prohibited items: Drugs, weapons, wildlife products (e.g., ivory).
• Local Regulations:
  • Register with immigration within 72 hours of arrival.
  • Ensure all visas/work permits are valid before departure.
• Policy Updates: Verify via the Chinese Consular Service (http://cs.mfa.gov.cn).

• Address: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• Contact: +251-11-661-2424.
• Website: http://et.china-embassy.gov.cn.