Traveling to China requires a visa; one part of the visa application process is an invitation letter(s). As an American citizen, here’s how to get the necessary invitation letter for different types of Chinese visas.
Types of Chinese Visas and Invitation Letter Requirements
1. Tourist Visa (L)
Who Needs It?
A tourist visa (L) is for individuals traveling to China for tourism.
Who Can Issue the Invitation Letter?
You need to identify a host in China, such as a friend, family member, or travel agency.
Contents and Supporting Documents
The invitation letter should include the host’s name, address, contact information, your relationship with the host, the purpose of your visit, the duration of your stay, and the places you plan to visit in China. Additionally, you may need to provide supporting documents such as a copy of the host’s ID or passport, proof of your relationship with the host, and your travel itinerary.
2. Business Visa (M)
Who Needs It?
A business visa (M) is for individuals traveling to China for business purposes.
Who Can Issue the Invitation Letter?
The required invitation letter needs to be issued by a business partner or company in China.
Contents and Supporting Documents
The letter should include detailed information about the company (name, address, and contact information), the purpose of your visit, your itinerary in China, and a guarantee of your financial support during the stay. Supporting documents may include an official invitation letter on company letterhead and an invitation verification form (PU letter) issued by the local Foreign Affairs Office in China.
3. Work Visa (Z)
Who Needs It?
A work visa (Z) is for individuals moving to China for employment.
Who Can Issue the Invitation Letter?
Your employer in China will provide the invitation letter.
Contents and Supporting Documents
The letter should contain details about the job offer, including the employer’s name, address, contact information, and the duration of your employment. Additional supporting documents might include your job offer, employment license, and other relevant documents your employer provides.
4. Family Reunion Visa (Q)
Who Needs It?
A family reunion visa (Q) is for individuals visiting family members residing in China.
Who Can Issue the Invitation Letter?
A family member living in China needs to issue an invitation letter.
Contents and Supporting Documents
The letter should include the host’s name, address, contact information, proof of your relationship with the host, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. Supporting documents typically include proof of family relationship (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate) and the host’s residence permit or other legal status documents.
Steps to Get an Invitation Letter for China
Identify the Type of Visa
Determine which type of Chinese visa you need, whether for tourism, business, work, or a family reunion.
Find a Host in China
Depending on the visa type, identify the appropriate host in China. This could be a friend, family member, company, or employer.
Request the Invitation Letter
Contact your host and request the necessary invitation letter. Make sure it includes all required details, such as names, addresses, contact information, and the purpose and duration of your visit.
Collect Supporting Documents
Gather all additional documents needed to support your invitation letter and visa application. These might include copies of ID cards, proof of relationship, travel itineraries, and official company documents.
Submit Your Visa Application
Fill out the visa application form accurately and submit it, along with the invitation letter and other required documents, to the Chinese embassy or consulate. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate you are applying to, as they may vary.
Follow Up
Monitor your application status and provide any additional information if requested by the embassy or consulate.
By following these steps and ensuring you have all the necessary documents, you can get the invitation letter required for your Chinese visa application.
Need Help With Your Invitation Letter from China?
If you still have questions about invitation letters or need assistance with your application, contact the China Visa Department. We can help you receive your visa without traveling to your closest embassy. Our services include full application assistance, making applying for a Chinese visa stress-free.