Understanding Tourist Visa Duration, Entry Types, and Extension Rules
If you’re planning a trip that requires a visa, one of the first things you’ll need to know is how long you can stay. Tourist visas (L visas) are the most common type for visitors heading to China for sightseeing, visiting friends, or cultural experiences. However, not all tourist visas offer the same time, and overstaying can lead to serious issues. So, how long can you stay in China on a Tourist Visa?
This guide breaks down the standard stay durations, the difference between visa entries, and what to know if you want to extend your trip.
Standard Stay Durations for a China Tourist Visa
Tourist visas typically allow travelers to stay in China for 30, 60, or 90 days per entry, depending on what the consulate approves and what you request.
30-Day Stay (Most Common)
The standard tourist visa grants 30 days of stay per entry. This is the most commonly issued duration, especially for first-time travelers. It starts counting from the day you enter China, not from the issue date.
60-Day or 90-Day Stay (Less Common)
Some travelers can request 60 or 90 days, but approval depends on their travel plans and the consulate’s discretion. These longer stays are more common for travelers visiting family, attending programs, or booking extended tours.
Tip: If you need a longer stay, include supporting documents with your visa application such as a detailed itinerary, hotel bookings, or invitation letters.
What Do “Single Entry” and “Multiple Entry” Mean?
Your China visa will also list the number of times you can enter the country during its validity, in addition to the length of your stay.
- Single Entry: You can enter China once. If you leave—even to visit nearby Hong Kong or Macau—you’ll need a new visa to return.
- Double Entry: You can enter China twice within the visa’s validity period. This is useful for side trips to other countries in Asia.
- Multiple Entry: Frequent travelers or those with past visas may qualify for a multiple-entry visa valid for 6 months, 1 year, or more.
Important: The duration of stay (30/60/90 days) resets each time you re-enter China under a valid visa.
Can You Extend a China Tourist Visa?
Yes, but only from within China and under certain conditions.
If you’re already in China and want to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension at a local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration office.
- Apply at least 7 days before your current visa expires
- You may need to show:
- Proof of travel plans
- Reason for extension
- Updated accommodations
- Extensions are usually granted for an additional 30 days
- You can only extend once in most cases
Overstaying your visa—even by one day—can result in fines, detainment, or being barred from re-entering China in the future.
Why Knowing Your Visa Duration Matters
Not keeping track of your visa expiration can lead to serious consequences. That’s why it’s critical to understand what your visa allows before your trip begins. Here’s what to check on your visa sticker:
- Enter Before: The last date you can enter China
- Duration of Each Stay: How many days you’re allowed per entry
- Entries: Single, double, or multiple
How the China Visa Department Can Help
Applying for a China tourist visa doesn’t have to be confusing. The China Visa Department helps travelers across the U.S. apply for the right visa the first time.
Expert Review Before You Apply
We review your documents and advise you on what stay duration to request based on your travel plans.
Submissions to the Right Consulate
Each U.S. state is assigned to one of five Chinese consulates. We handle the in-person submission for you, no matter where you live.
Virtual and Phone Support
From filling out the forms to gathering documents, we guide you step-by-step so you avoid common delays or rejections.
Fast, Nationwide Processing
We work with travelers in all 50 states, offering standard and expedited processing. You send us your documents, and we handle the rest.
Final Thoughts
A 30-day stay in China is enough for most tourists to explore top cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. But if you’re planning a more extended trip or multiple entries, it’s important to understand your visa options upfront.
Let the China Visa Department help you get the right visa—fast, simple, and with fewer risks.