Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of India

1. Visa Necessity for Indian Travelers

 

Indian citizens must obtain a valid visa before traveling to mainland China for any purpose, including tourism, business, study, or work. There is no visa-on-arrival option available. 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 India.

2. Visa Types and Eligibility

Tourist Visa (L Visa)

 

  • Validity: 90 days to 1 year (single/multiple entries).
  • Maximum Stay: 30–60 days per entry (depending on visa type).
  • Required Materials:
    • Passport valid for ≥6 months with 2 blank pages.
    • Completed COVA form.
    • Recent passport photo (48mm × 33mm).
    • Proof of travel arrangements (flight itinerary, hotel reservations).
    • Financial proof (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 + 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 residents.
  • S2: Short-term visits (≤180 days; requires invitation from family in China).
  • Q1/Q2: For relatives of Chinese citizens (additional documentation needed).

3. Application Process

 

  1. Online Application:
    • Complete the COVA form and schedule an appointment at the nearest Chinese embassy/consulate or visa application center.
    • Submit documents (passport, photos, proof of purpose).
  2. Biometric Data:
    • Fingerprint collection mandatory for applicants aged 14–70 (waiver available for diplomatic passport holders or those aged >70/≤12).
  3. Processing Time:
    • Standard: 4–6 weeks.
    • Express: 3–5 business days (additional fee).

4. Fees and Payment

 

  • Tourist Visa: USD 120 (single entry), USD 179 (express).
  • Business Visa: USD 145 (single entry), USD 204 (express).
  • Payment Methods: Cashier’s checks, debit cards, or money orders (no cash/credit cards).

5. Embassy and Consulate Contacts

 

  • Embassy of China in New Delhi:
    • Address: 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
    • Tel: +91-11-2611-2345
  • Consulates-General:
    • Mumbai: 401, 4th Floor, Express Towers, Nariman Point, Mumbai
    • Kolkata: 1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kolkata
    • Chennai: 6, Gokhale Road, Chennai

6. Key Tips

 

  • Apply Early: Submit applications 4–6 weeks before travel.
  • Document Accuracy: Ensure documents are in English/Hindi 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 Restrictions: Avoid visiting restricted areas in India without prior approval.

 

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