Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of South Africa

1. Visa Types for South African Citizens

Tourist Visa (L Visa):
- Validity: Typically 90 days (single/multiple entries).
- Stay Duration: Up to 30 days (extendable in some cases).
- 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).
  - For employed applicants: Employer’s leave letter, 6-month bank statements, income tax returns.
  - For students: School enrollment letter and no-objection certificate.
Business Visa (M Visa):
- Requires a Chinese invitation letter from a registered company/organization.
Work Visa (Z Visa):
- Must obtain a work permit and invitation letter before applying.
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.

Diplomatic/Government Passports:
- South African citizens holding diplomatic, Official business, or official business passports enjoy 30-day visa-free entry for tourism or business.
Group Tourists:
- Groups of ≥2 tourists organized by a Chinese travel agency may enter select ports (e.g., Shanghai, Guangzhou) visa-free for 15 days.
Transit Visa Exemption:
- 24-hour transit: No visa needed if staying ≤24 hours.
- 72-hour transit: Allowed in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou with confirmed onward tickets.

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

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.

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.
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).