China Visa Application and Photo Requirements

China Visa Application Process

A China visa is required for most travelers visiting China for tourism, business, work, study, or other purposes. The type of visa and required documents depend on the purpose of the visit, but most applicants must apply in person at a Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa center.

Steps to Apply for a China Visa

1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need

Common types of China visas include:

✔ Tourist Visa (L Visa) – For tourism and family visits.
✔ Business Visa (M Visa) – For business and trade activities.
✔ Work Visa (Z Visa) – For employment in China (requires employer sponsorship).
✔ Student Visa (X Visa) – For long-term or short-term study in China.
✔ Transit Visa (G Visa) – For short layovers in China.

2. Gather Required Documents

Standard requirements for most visas include:

• Valid passport (must have at least 6 months of validity and two blank pages).
• Completed China Visa Application Form (Form COVA).
• Passport-style photo that meets the official requirements (see below).
• Travel itinerary (flight bookings and hotel reservations).
• Proof of residence (if applying from a country other than your nationality).
• Invitation letter (if applicable, for business or family visits).
• Employment or financial proof (bank statements, work permit, or employer letter).

3. Submit Your Visa Application

• Visit the official Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website or Chinese consulate website to complete the online application form (COVA).
• Print and sign the application.
• Schedule an appointment at the nearest Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa center.
• Bring all required documents and pay the visa processing fee (varies by visa type and nationality).

4. Attend the Visa Appointment

• Submit fingerprints (if required).
• Some applicants may be called for an interview if additional verification is needed.

5. Track Application and Collect Your Visa

• Standard processing takes 4-5 business days, while express or rush service may be available for an additional fee.
• Pick up your passport with the visa or request mail delivery (if allowed).

China Visa Photo Requirements

The photo for a China visa application must strictly follow these guidelines to be accepted.

General Photo Requirements

✅ Size: 48 mm x 33 mm (not the same as standard passport size).
✅ Head Size: The head must be 15 - 22 mm wide and 28 - 33 mm high.
✅ Resolution: Minimum 420 x 560 pixels for digital submissions.
✅ Color: Full color; black and white photos are not accepted.
✅ Background: Plain white with no shadows or patterns.
✅ Expression: Neutral face, no smiling, eyes open, mouth closed.
✅ Head Position: Facing directly forward, with the full head and shoulders visible.
✅ Clothing: No uniforms; casual attire is acceptable. Religious attire is allowed if worn daily.

Restrictions

🚫 No selfies or heavily edited photos.
🚫 No glasses (unless medically necessary, with a doctor’s note).
🚫 No shadows, glare, or overexposure.
🚫 No hats or head coverings (except for religious or medical reasons).
🚫 No jewelry or excessive makeup.
🚫 No digital alterations that modify facial features.

Printing & Submission Guidelines

• Print on high-quality photo paper (matte or glossy).
• The face must be centered and clearly visible.
• No filters, retouching, or enhancements.
• The head should take up 70-80% of the photo.
• Digital photos must meet Chinese embassy or visa center specifications.

Ensuring that both the visa application and photo meet the official Chinese government requirements will help avoid delays or rejections. For latest updates and complete guidelines, always check the official Chinese embassy or consulate website.