CHINESE PASSPORT & VISA PHOTO

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Tourist  Visa

(“L” Visa)

 “L” Visas are issued to foreign citizens who intend to visit China for tourism or for visiting families or friends.

A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.  
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
5. U.S citizens may apply for a single-entry visa valid for three months, or double-entry visa valid for six months or multi-entry visa valid for twelve months according to their actual needs. For one year multi-entry visa, the passport must have a validity of no less than 18 months.
6. Additional documents to be submitted by former Chinese citizens who apply for a Chinese visa for the first time.

a). Former Chinese citizens born on the mainland of China must also submit:

–      The original Chinese passport and a copy of the picture page;

–      A copy of the passport renewal page, if applicable;

–      A copy of the Certificate of Naturalization or other naturalization documentation if the Chinese passport has expired;

–      A completed statement (click to download) if the former Chinese passport expired long before your naturalization;

–      A copy of the official record of name change if the name on the current passport is different from that on the Chinese passport;

–      A copy of Marriage Certificate if the applicant’s surname has been changed to the husband’s;

b). Former Chinese citizens born in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan must also provide the original and a copy of official proof of their Chinese names, e.g. Birth Certificate, former travel document, and resident card, etc.

c). A child adopted from China must also submit:

–      the original Chinese passport with which the child travelled from China, and a copy of the picture page;

–      the original and a copy of the Adoption Certificate;

–      official record of name change if the Adoption Certificate does not reflect the change of name.

1. A child of Chinese descent born in a foreign country, who applies for a Chinese visa for the first time, must also submit the original and a copy of Birth Certificate as well as the original and a copy of either parent’s foreign passport or foreign permanent residence permit (e.g. US Green Card) in addition to requirements “a”,”b” and “c” stated above, so as to verify the child’s citizenship.
2. Travelers to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) must submit Travel Permit to Tibet.  Please contact the Tourism Bureau of TAR (Tel. +86-891-6834313, Fax: +86-891-6834632) in advance for the Permit.
3. Non-US citizens must also provide the original and a copy of official document (e.g. Green Card, work visa, or student visa) that provides for residence in the US for no less than 6 months. Non-US citizens on temporary visit to the US should apply for a Chinese visa in their own country of citizenship in advance.
4. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
2. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
3. Visitors who need to stay in China beyond the permitted duration of stay specified on the visa should apply to the local public security bureau for an extension of stay in advance. Overstay without permission will be subject to punishments such as a fine. Please click here to see a visa sample.
4. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
5. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Business Visa 

(“F” visa)

“F” Visas are issued to applicants who intend to visit China for business, meetings, study or training for less than 6 months.

 

A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
5. “Letter of Invitation by Duly Authorized Units”, or “Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial level Foreign Affairs Office (together with the Invitation Letter issued by the Chinese inviter), or Invitation letter issued by the Chinese inviter, or a letter of introduction from the applicant’s current employer.
6. U.S citizens may apply for a single-entry visa valid for three months, or double-entry visa valid for six months or multi-entry visa valid for twelve months according to their actual needs. For one year multi-entry visa, the passport must have a validity of no less than 18 months.
7. Additional documents must be submitted by former Chinese citizens who apply for a Chinese visa for the first time.

a). Former Chinese citizens born on the mainland of China must also submit

–        The original Chinese passport and a copy of the picture page;

–        A copy of the passport renewal page, if applicable;

–        A copy of the Certificate of Naturalization or other naturalization documentation if the Chinese passport has expired;

–        A completed statement (click to download) if the former Chinese passport has expired long before naturalization;

–        A copy of the official record of name change if the name on the current passport is different from that on the Chinese passport;

–        A copy of Marriage Certificate if the applicant’s surname has been changed to the husband’s;

b). Former Chinese citizens born in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan must also provide the original and a copy of official proof of their Chinese names, e.g. Birth Certificate, former travel document, and resident card, etc.

c). A child adopted from China must also submit:

–      the original Chinese passport with which the child travelled from China, and a copy of the picture page;

–      the original and a copy of the Adoption Certificate;

–      official record of name change if the Adoption Certificate does not reflect the change of name.

1. Non-US citizens must also provide the original and a copy of official document (e.g. Green Card, work visa, or student visa) that provides for residence in the US for no less than 6 months. Non-US citizens on temporary visit to the US should apply for a Chinese visa in their own country of citizenship in advance.
2. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
2. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
3. Visitors who need to stay in China beyond the permitted duration of stay specified on the visa should apply to the local public security bureau for an extension of stay in advance.  Overstay without permission will be subject to punishments such as a fine. Please click here to see a visa sample.
4. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
5. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

 

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Student Visa

 (“X” visa)

“X” visas are issued to applicants who intend to study or receive training or internship in China for more than 6 months.

A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)(V.2011A and V.2011B) completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the “Instructions” (click to view) while filling out the forms.
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months. Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. The original and a copy of the “Visa Application Form for International Students” (JW-201 or JW-202) issued by the Ministry of Education of China.
5. The original and a copy of the “Letter of Admission” from the accepting school in China.
6. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
7. Additional documents to be submitted by former Chinese citizens who apply for a Chinese visa for the first time (Please see Requirement “f” under “L” Visa).
8. Non-US citizens must also provide the original and a copy of official document (e.g. Green Card, work visa, or student visa) that provides for residence in the US for no less than 6 months.
9. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. US citizens may apply for a multi-entry student visa valid for one year, provided that the student’s passport has a validity of no less than 12 months.  Non-US citizens may apply for a single entry student visa valid for 3 months.  The duration of stay for “X” Visa is “000”.
2. All “X” Visa holders must apply for residence permit at the local public security bureau within 30 days of entry into China irrespective of the number of entries specified on the visa.
3. Visa application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
4. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
5. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.

For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Employment Visa

 (“Z” visa)

“Z” Visas are issued to foreign citizens (and their immediate families) who will work in China. Applicants going for commercial performance in China also receive “Z” Visas.

A.  Requirements:

1.  Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)(V.2011A and V.2011B) completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the “Instructions” (click to view) while filling out the forms.
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months. Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. “Letter of Invitation by Duly Authorized Units”, or “Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial level Foreign Affairs Office (together with the Invitation Letter issued by the Chinese inviter).
5. The original “Foreign Experts Working Permit” issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, or the original and a copy of the “Alien Employment License” issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
6. The accompanying spouse or children of the employed person should be listed on the above-mentioned “Letter of Invitation” or “Confirmation of Invitation”. If the employed person is already in China, the spouse and children may submit the original and a copy of Marriage Certificate or Birth Certificate as well as a copy of the employed person’s Residence Permit or Employment Certificate issued in China .
7. Applicants going to China for commercial performances must also submit:

a).  the approval document issued by the Ministry of Culture; and

b).  the “Letter of Invitation” issued by the Ministry of Culture, or “Confirmation of Invitation” issued by a provincial level Foreign Affairs Office (together with the Invitation Letter issued by the Chinese inviter).

1. Non-US citizens must also provide the original and a copy of official document that provides for residence or employment in the US for no less than 6 months.
2. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
3. Additional documents to be submitted by former Chinese citizens who apply for a Chinese visa for the first time (Please see Requirement “f” under “L” Visa).
4. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. “Z” Visa provides for a single entry valid for 3 months with a duration of stay of “000” days.  All “Z” Visa holders must apply for residence permit at the local public security bureau within 30 days of entry into China.
2. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
3. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
4. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
5. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Transit Visa

 (“G” visa)

“G” Visas are issued to foreign citizens who travel to another country or region via China.

 A.  Requirements:

1.   Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.  
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. Valid visa for the third country/region and connecting tickets.
5. Non-US citizens must provide the original and a copy of official document (e.g. Green Card, work visa, or student visa) that provides for residence in the US for no less than 6 months. Non-US citizens on temporary visit to the US should apply for a Chinese visa in their own country of citizenship in advance.
6. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
7. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. “G” Visa generally provides for one or two entries valid for 3 months with duration of each stay within 7 days.
2. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
3. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
4. Foreign citizens who transit in China within 24 hours and who remain in the transit area within the airport without going through customs do not need to apply for a visa.
5. Foreign citizens whose transit in China exceed 24 hours or who wish to enter China through the airport customs have to apply for a visa.
6. Citizens of the following countries, notwithstanding their passport type, may transit in Shanghai for up to 48 hours without a visa: USA, Australia, Canada, Korea, New Zealand, and Schengen countries including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
7. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
8. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Journalist Visa

(J-1visa or J-2 visa)

J-1 Visas are issued to foreign resident journalists to China and J-2 Visas are issued to journalists on temporary assignment in China.

A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition) completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.  
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. The original or a copy of the official approval issued by competent departments of the Chinese Government.
5. Non-US citizens must provide the original and a copy of official document that provides for residence or employment in the US for no less than 6 months.
6. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. J-1 Visa generally provides for a single entry valid for 3 months with a duration of stay of “000” days. J-1 Visa holders should apply for residence permit at a local Public Security Bureau within 30 days of entry into China.
2. Journalists going to China as tourists should apply for “L” Visas and should not engage in any work-related activities.
3. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
4. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
5. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
6. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Residence Visa

(“D”  visa)

“D” Visas are issued to foreign citizens who have been granted permanent residency in China. Prior approval from the local public security bureau has to be received by way of a “Permanent Residency Confirmation Form” before proceeding to visa application.

 A.  Requirements:

1. The original and a copy of the “Permanent Residency Confirmation Form”.
2. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)  completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.
3. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
4. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
5. Additional documents to be submitted by former Chinese citizens who apply for a Chinese visa for the first time (Please see Requirement “f” under “L” Visa).
6. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
7. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment(click to view)

C.  Attention: 

1. “D” Visa generally provides for a single entry valid for 3 months with a duration of stay of “000” days. “D” Visa holders should apply for residence permit at a local Public Security Bureau within 30 days of entry into China.
2. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
3. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
4. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
5. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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 Crew Visas

(“C” visa)

“C” Visas are issued to international air/train/ship crew members on assignment to China.

 A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.  
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. A letter of introduction (original or a copy) from the dispatching air/train/ship company.
5. Evidence of previous Chinese visa.  If you have received a Chinese visa before, please submit one copy each of the most recent Chinese visa and the picture page of the passport bearing the visa. Please also bring the original passport if the visa does not contain your name and passport number.
6. Non-US citizens must provide the original and a copy of official document that provides for residence or employment in the US for no less than 6 months.
7. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

C.  Attention: 

1. “C” Visas are issued in accordance with relevant agreements reached between Chinese and foreign governments.  Crew members of companies that are not covered by the agreements may apply for one or two entries valid for three months.
2. Crew members who intend to go to China for tourism or family visits should apply for tourist visa separately notwithstanding the validity of “C” Visa on their passports.
3. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
4. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
5. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
6. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

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Diplomatic or Service Visas

Both visas are issued to foreign government officials, diplomats, or officials of the United Nations or other International Organizations on official mission or posting in China.

A.  Requirements:

1. Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China (2011 Edition)  completed on a computer and printed out on Letter size papers. Please consult the Instructions (click to view) while filling out the form.
2. One colored, front-facing, hatless passport picture taken against a light background within 6 months. Please affix the picture on the application form.
3. The original and one copy of the passport ( picture page only). The passport should have at least two blank visa pages and a validity of at least 6 months.  Defaced, torn or damaged passports are not acceptable.
4. The original or a copy of diplomatic note issued by a government/diplomatic/ consular organ of the applicant’s country of citizenship, or United Nations organizations or other international organizations.
5. An official invitation letter issued by the Chinese host if the visit is hosted by a Chinese government department.
6. Other documents that may be required by the visa officer at the time of application.

B.  Visa Pick-up Time, Visa Fees and Payment (click to view)

Please note that fees are usually exempted for diplomatic or service visas.  However, diplomatic or service/official passport holders who receive ordinary visas are still required to pay for visas.

C.  Attention: 

1. The application may be submitted by the applicant or by a representative.  No power of attorney or appointment is needed.
2. The Visa Office does not accept visa application through mail.
3. The above information may be subject to adjustment when necessary without prior notice. In such cases, the consul’s explanation will prevail.
4. For further inquiries, please send E-mail to: cnnyconsulate@mfa.gov.cn, or call our information desk at 212-868-2078 on weekdays at 09:00-12:00 or 13:30-15:30.  Press “8” to speak to our specialist.

 

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Visa Pickup Time, Fees and Payment

 

A.  Visa Pickup Time

A Pick-up Form is issued upon successful submission of application. Please take the Pick-up Form with you when picking up your visa.

1. Normal pick-up:  Visas can be picked up the 4th working day if the application is successfully submitted before 13:30, or the 5th working if the application is submitted after 13:30.
2. Express pick-up: Under urgent or special circumstances,  at the discretion of the consul,  visas can be picked up the 2nd working day if the application is successfully submitted before 13:30,or the 3rd working day if the application is submitted after 13:30.

Reminders:

1. Due to heavy increase of applications, same day visa service has been suspended as of May 2011.
2. As there are usually more applicants after 10 am on weekdays and on the first two days following holiday closures, it is recommended that applicants avoid peak days and hours so as to reduce waiting time.

 B.  Visa Fees (in US Dollars)

a. Visa Fees for US Citizens

 

b. Visa Fees for Non-US Citizens

*Please note that the fees may be different for citizens of a number of countries.