Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Saudi Arabia

1. Visa Types and Entry Policies

• Tourist Visa (L Visa):
  • Validity: Typically 3 months, with a single/multiple entry option.
  • Stay Duration: Up to 30 days (can be extended in some cases).
  • Required Documents:
    • Passport valid for at least 6 months.
    • Two recent passport-sized photos.
    • Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a Chinese host.
    • Round-trip flight itinerary.
    • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements).
• Group Tour Visa Waiver (Effective May 15, 2024):
  • Eligibility: Groups of 2+ travelers organized by registered Chinese travel agencies.
  • Duration: 15-day visa-free stay.
  • Entry Points: Designated ports (e.g., Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hainan).
• Transit Visa Waivers:
  • 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Available at all airports.
  • 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Valid in 53 cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu), except Urumqi, Fuzhou, and Yanji.

2. Application Process

1. Online Application:
   • Complete the COVA form (https://cova.mfa.gov.cn).
   • Pay fees online (if applicable).
2. Document Submission:
   • Submit documents to the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in Saudi Arabia or via a visa center (e.g., VFS Global).
   • Include invitation letters (for business/study) or travel agency confirmation (for group tours).
3. Fingerprint Collection: Required for applicants aged 14–70.
4. Processing Time: 4–6 weeks; expedited services available for an extra fee.

3. Key Requirements

• Health: No COVID-19 testing/vaccination mandates (as of 2025).
• Customs:
  • Declare cash exceeding SAR 6,000 (or equivalent).
  • Prohibited items: Alcohol, pork, illegal substances, and materials deemed “obscene.”
• Cultural Norms:
  • Women must be accompanied by a male relative in public.
  • Avoid photographing sensitive sites or individuals without permission.
  • During Ramadan, refrain from eating/drinking in public during daylight hours.

4. Fees

• Tourist Visa: Approximately USD 120 (single entry).
• Group Tour Visa Waiver: Free.
• Transit Visas: Free if eligible.

5. Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia

• Address: Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh.
• Contact: +966-11-4880088.
• Website: http://sa.china-embassy.org.

6. Important Notes

• Visa-Free Transit Exceptions: Urumqi, Fuzhou, and Yanji airports do not allow 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit.
• Israel Visa Stamp: Passports with Israeli stamps are invalid for entry.
• Work/Study Visas: Require additional permits (e.g., work permit, JW201 form for students).