Are you planning a trip to China? Getting a Chinese tourist visa is an important step. The China Visa Department can help make this process easy. Here’s what you need to know to get your visa.
Thinking of Applying for a Tourist Visa in Person at a Chinese Consulate?
There are five Chinese consulates in the United States: San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Houston. However, the Chinese embassy in Houston is usually closed for applications. You must travel to your assigned state to submit your application unless you live in the four other cities mentioned. You can find your assigned Chinese embassy by state here.
Do I Have to Go in Person to Submit My Chinese Visa Application?
There are two options for those applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa. The first is to travel to your state’s assigned consulate and return in four days to pick up your application. Unfortunately, you’ll have to cover your travel and lodging. This can be a hassle for most people who don’t have the time off or want to spend the money for in-person drop-off. However, there’s a second, more convenient option. You can hire a registered courier service like the China Visa Department to handle the drop-off and pick-up for you, relieving you of the long and costly process.
What Do I Need To Apply for a Visa with the China Visa Department
Passport Requirements
You need to provide your actual signed passport.
Your passport must:
- Be valid for at least six months after your trip to China.
- Have at least two blank visa pages. You need two blank-facing visa pages with no stamps or amendments if you want multiple entries.
- Be in good condition, without any damage.
- Include a copy of the personal information page.
Proof of State Residency
You must show proof of your current address, such as a copy of the front of your driver’s license or a utility bill.
Make sure the document:
- Shows your name exactly as it appears on your passport.
- Shows your current address as listed on your visa application.
If you submit a utility bill, it must be for electricity, gas, or water. Phone and cable bills are not accepted.
For children applying for a visa, provide a copy of their birth certificate and copies of each parent’s ID to prove residency.
Where You Stay Form
Fill out the “Where You Stay” form to indicate which state you live in. You can download this form here.
Visa Application Form
You will complete the visa application form during your virtual meeting with the China Visa Department. The form will be sent electronically to the consulate. You must also send a physical copy of the application with the other required materials.
Travel Information
While you don’t need to show your travel itinerary now, you must provide:
- The dates you will enter and leave China.
- The addresses of the hotels where you will stay.
Additional Documentation
Previous Visits to China
If you have been to China before or have had a Chinese visa, provide a copy of that visa and the passport information page used at that time.
Dual Nationality
If you have dual nationality, provide a photocopy of the information page of your foreign passport.
Previous Chinese Nationality
If you used to be a Chinese national, you must submit your physical Chinese passport when applying for the visa.
Need Help Applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa?
If you have any questions or concerns, call the China Visa Department at (888) 899-9629. We are ready to help you with each step of the application process.
Using the China Visa Department’s services can make getting a tourist visa for China much more manageable. Contact us today to save time and money on your travels to China.