How to Apply for China Business Visa
Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months remaining validity and two blank visa pages.
Chinese visa application form: Complete the application on your computer, print it out, and sign it. Do not fill out this application by hand. Do not use digital signatures. All fields must be completed. If a section does not apply to you, type in “None” or “N/A.” Once the form is completed, do not click on continue. Click on Save and provide us with the application number and passport number. Your application form must be reviewed by us.
- Link to form: cova.mfa.gov.cn
Passport-type photograph: 1 (taken within 6 months)
Business letter. A business letter from the sending company in the US. The letter should be printed on the company letterhead stationery, addressed to “The Consulate of China, Visa Section”, and signed by a senior manager (an equivalent to Vice-President or above). The business letter must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Briefly introduce the applicant (please specify employment status/position held in the company by applicant).
- State the nature of the business to be conducted (ie. business meetings, contract negotiations, etc.) and the names and addresses of companies to be contacted in China.
- Specify the Type and desired Validity of the visa (ie. a one year multiple entry business visa).
- Guarantee of sufficient funds for travel.
- In the event the applicant is self-employed, please mention the nature of business conducted in China in the application under “Other” in paragraph 1.15″
The sample format for this letter can be found here.
Business invitation. A business invitation letter from the sponsoring company in China. The letter should be printed on company letterhead stationery, addressed to “The Consulate of China, Visa Section”, and signed by a senior manager (an equivalent to Vice-President or above) and stamped with the company seal. The business letter must include the following information:
- Personal information of the applicant: name, gender, date of birth, passport details, and job title.
- State the nature of the business to be conducted (ie. business meetings, contract negotiations, etc.), the dates of the visit, and the names and addresses of companies to be contacted in China.
- Specify the Type and desired Validity of the visa (ie. a one year multiple entry business visa).
- State who will bear the costs of the applicant’s accommodations in China.
A sample outline can be found here.
Additional requirements for applicants born in China, Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan
- Chinese name. The applicant’s name written in Chinese characters.
- Proof of name change. If the applicant’s name has changed since birth, please provide a copy of the court order or marriage certificate showing the name change.
- Previous visa. Copy of a previously issued Chinese visa or copy of the information page from your Chinese, Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwanese passport.
NOTE: If your old passport has not been canceled, you will be required to submit the original passport with your application.
Information for persons of Tibetan origin
You must make a personal appearance at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center to process your visa if you are a person of Tibetan origin. The Visa Application Service Center will require additional documents in order to process your visa and CEV is unable to assist in these procedures.
Persons with Occupation Related to Media
If you are a media professional or employed by a media company, the Chinese Consulate may request additional information about your trip that may affect quoted processing times.
Maximum stay in China: 60 days
Chinese business visas may be issued with a max stay of up to 90 days. The actual duration is at the discretion of the Chinese Consulate.