Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Nigeria

1. Visa Types and Exemption Policies

 

  1. Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders:
    • Nigerian diplomatic and official passport holders enjoy a 30-day visa-free stay in China.
    • For stays exceeding 30 days or activities like work/study, apply for the corresponding visa in advance.
  2. Ordinary Passport Holders:
    • Ordinary passport holders must obtain a Chinese visa before entry; no on-arrival visas are available.
    • Apply at least 1–2 months prior to travel.

2. Visa Application Requirements

Tourist Visa (L Visa)

 

  • Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
  • Duration of Stay: Up to 30 days (non-extendable).
  • Required Documents:
    • Passport valid for at least 6 months + photocopy.
    • Completed online visa application form (COVA system) and confirmation page.
    • 2 recent passport-sized photos (3.5cm×4.5cm, white background).
    • Round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations.
    • 6-month bank statements showing sufficient funds.
    • Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends, with relationship proof).

Business Visa (M Visa)

 

  • Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
  • Duration of Stay: Up to 30 days (extendable in some cases).
  • Required Documents:
    • Basic documents as above.
    • Invitation letter from a Chinese company (specifying purpose, itinerary, and cost responsibility).
    • Copy of the Chinese partner’s business license.

Student Visa (X Visa)

 

  • Purpose: Study in China.
  • Types:
    • X1 Visa: Long-term study (>180 days).
    • X2 Visa: Short-term study (≤180 days).
  • Required Documents:
    • Basic documents as above.
    • Admission letter from a Chinese institution and JW201/JW202 form.

Work Visa (Z Visa)

 

  • Validity: Matches the work contract (usually 1 year).
  • Duration of Stay: Requires a work permit.
  • Required Documents:
    • Basic documents as above.
    • Employer’s invitation letter and work permit (Z-visa notification).
    • Health certificate issued by a designated Chinese authority.

Transit Visa (G Visa)

 

  • Duration of Stay:
    • 24-hour visa-free transit if don’t leave airport.
    • Apply for G Visa if staying >24 hours or leaving the airport.
  • Required Documents:
    • Basic documents as above.
    • Flight itinerary to the third country.

3. Application Process

 

  1. Online Application:
    • Complete the visa form via the COVA system and book an appointment.
    • Submit documents to the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in Nigeria or a designated visa center.
  2. Processing Time:
    • Regular: 4–7 business days.
    • Express service available for an additional fee.

4. Visa Fees

 

  • Tourist/Business Visa: ~USD 120–145 (subject to change; confirm with the embassy).
  • Other visas: Fees vary by type; check official sources.

5. Important Notes

 

  1. Health Requirements:
    • No COVID-19 testing/vaccination required, but random antigen tests may occur.
    • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (International Certificate of Vaccination) is mandatory for entry.
  2. Customs Regulations:
    • Declare cash exceeding USD 5,000 or equivalent.
    • Prohibited items: Ivory, drugs, pornography, etc.
  3. Visa Extensions:
    • Apply to local immigration authorities before the visa expires.
  4. Tips:
    • Ensure all documents are authentic and complete to avoid rejection.
    • Plan ahead to allow sufficient processing time.

 

Official Resources: