Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Philippines

1. Visa-Exempt Entry for Filipinos

 

  • Hainan Province (30 days):
    • Enter/exit via Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX) or Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK).
    • Must have a confirmed hotel booking, onward ticket, and be on a stamped name list or invitation letter from a registered tourist agent in Hainan.
  • Guilin (6 days):
    • Part of a tourist group (at least 2 people) organized by a registered travel agent. Enter/exit via Guilin Liangjiang Airport (KWL).
  • Hong Kong (SAR): 14 days visa-free.
  • Macau (SAR): 30 days visa-free.
  • Pearl River Delta (6 days):
    • From Hong Kong/Macau, part of a tourist group organized by a travel agency in Hong Kong/Macau. Covers Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.

2. Visa Requirements for Other Destinations

 

If not using visa-exempt options, apply for a China Tourist Visa (L Visa).
Required Documents

 

  • Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, with 1 blank page. Photocopy bio and emergency contact pages.
  • Old Passports (if applicable): Submit old passports with previous China visas (if any).
  • Photos: Two 48mm x 33mm color photos on a white background (taken within 6 months).
  • Online Application Form (COVA):
    • Complete the China Online Visa Application (COVA) form here. Print and sign the form.
  • Travel Itinerary: Detailed daily plan in China (match flight/hotel bookings).
  • Flight & Hotel Reservations: Round-trip flight bookings and confirmed hotel reservations (under the applicant’s name).
  • Financial Proof (for first-time applicants):
    • Bank statements (last 6 months), employment certificate, or income tax returns.
  • Invitation Letter (if applicable):
    • From a Chinese host (include host’s passport copy, proof of relationship, and travel details).
Application Process

 

  1. Determine Visa Type: Tourist (L) for leisure/short-term visits.
  2. Schedule Appointment: Use the AVAS system (China Visa Application Service Center) in the Philippines.
  3. Submit Documents:
    • At the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in the Philippines (e.g., Manila, Cebu).
    • Include all required documents (original passport, photos, forms, itinerary, etc.).
  4. Processing Time: Typically 4–5 business days. Expedited service available (additional fee).
  5. Collect Visa: Track application status and collect the passport with visa.

3. Key Notes

 

  • Multiple-Entry Visas: Requestable, but approval at the embassy’s discretion.
  • Minors: Applications must be signed by parents/guardians. Include birth certificate.
  • Prohibited Actions:
    • False documents or incomplete applications will lead to denial.
    • Do not overstay or engage in activities beyond visa purpose (e.g., work without a work visa).
  • Fees: Vary by visa type and processing time (check the embassy website for updates).

4. Embassy Contact

 

5. Updates & Resources

 

  • Latest Policy Changes: Monitor the Chinese Embassy’s website or COVA portal for updates.
  • Visa Exemptions: Confirm airport-specific rules (e.g., Hainan/Guilin group requirements).