China Tourist Visa (L Visa)
The L Visa is designed for foreigners who wish to travel to China for tourism purposes. It's the most common type of visa applied for by foreign visitors.
Key Features of Tourist Visa
- Duration of Stay: Generally limited to 30 days per visit
- Validity Period: Typically 90 days from the date of issue
- Restrictions: Visa holders cannot work or engage in activities unrelated to tourism
- Extensions: Possible to apply for up to two extensions while in China
Required Documents
Basic Materials
-
Passport Requirements
- Valid for at least 6 months beyond visa application
- At least 2 blank visa pages
- Copy of passport information page
- Previous Chinese visa copy (if applicable)
-
Visa Application
- Enter the China Visa Application Service Center
- Completed electronic visa application form
- Confirmation page with signature
-
Photo Requirements
- Recent photo (taken within 6 months)
- White background
- 48mm × 33mm
- Full frontal view, neutral expression
- No glasses or jewelry
- Ears visible
- No white clothing
-
Proof of Legal Residence
- Required for third-country passport holders
- Valid residence permit or visa
Supporting Documents
-
Travel Itinerary
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Hotel reservations
- OR
- Invitation letter from a host in China including:
- Invitee's information (name, gender, birth date, passport number)
- Travel itinerary (arrival/departure dates, places to visit)
- Host's information (name, contact number, address)
- Copy of host's ID
-
Financial Proof
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Proof of employment
- Tax returns
- Other financial documents proving sufficient funds for the trip
Visa Application Process
- Complete online visa application form
- Schedule appointment at Chinese Visa Application Center
- Print and sign confirmation page and application form
- Submit documents and provide fingerprints
- Pay visa processing fee
- Collect passport with visa (typically 4-5 working days)
❗❗❗ Important Notes:
- Apply at least 1 month before travel, but not earlier than 3 months
- Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival in China(if you stay in a hotel, they will handle this registration for you)
- Keep your documents safe during your stay
FAQ
Additional Requirements for Special Cases
Minors (Under 18)
- Birth certificate copy
- Copies of both parents' passports/IDs
- Notarized parental consent letter (if traveling without parents)
- Parents' proof of residency status (for non-US citizens)
Media and Religious Professionals
- Personal statement
- Employer letter confirming non-business travel purpose
- Additional documentation may be required
Military Personnel
- Declaration of military service
- Dates must match application information
- Complete service history required
For more information or assistance, contact: