As an Indian national, you generally require a visa to enter China. While China has expanded its visa-free policies to over 45 countries in 2026, India currently remains a visa-required country. However, you should first check if you qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit (available if you are transiting through major hubs like Shanghai or Beijing to a third country) or the 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan Province.
If you plan to apply for china visa, it is important to understand the steps involved to apply for china visa from India, including details on how to apply for china visa from India, filling the china visa application form online, and completing the china visa application online.
Travelers who want to apply for china visa should carefully follow the guidelines to apply for china visa from India, learn how to apply for china visa from India, accurately submit the china visa application form online, and finalize the china visa application online.
Learn More: Family Residence Visa | Tourist Visa | Extend Return Visa | Temporary Work Visa
Guide to Applying for a China Visa for Indians (2026 Updated)
As an Indian national, you are required to apply for a China visa to enter the country. Before starting, check if you meet the criteria for a visa-free policy, such as the 240-hour visa-free transit available in several major Chinese cities if you are traveling to a third country.
Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type
China offers various visa categories based on your purpose of entry. A China visa agent can help you choose the best option, as requirements vary significantly:
L Visa: For tourism and sightseeing.
M Visa: For commercial and trade activities.
Q2 Visa: For visiting Chinese relatives (short-term).
Z Visa: For temporary or permanent work.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
- The standard list of documents for an Indian applicant includes:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.
- The printed China visa application form online (COVA).
- Recent color photos ($48\text{mm} \times 33\text{mm}$) with a white background.
- Travel itinerary (round-trip tickets and hotel bookings) or an official Invitation Letter.
- Proof of residence (Aadhar card or utility bills).
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
If you plan to apply for a China visa from India, you must first complete the China Online Visa Application (COVA). Accurately filling out the china visa application form online is critical; ensure every detail matches your passport exactly. After finishing the china visa application online, print the confirmation page and the full form for submission.
Step 4: Submission (No Appointment Required)
In 2026, the process of how to apply for a China visa from India is more convenient. The requirement for an appointment has been removed at the Visa Service Centers in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. You can now walk in during business hours to submit your physical application.
Step 5: Fingerprint Exemption (Extended for 2026)
A major benefit for travelers this year: China has extended the biometric fingerprint exemption until December 31, 2026. This applies to all short-term visa applicants (stays of 180 days or less), including Tourist (L) and Business (M) visas. You likely will not need to have your fingerprints collected during your visit to the center.
Step 6: Pay the Reduced Visa Fee
China has extended its reduced visa fee policy through the end of 2026. For Indian citizens, the consular fee is approximately ₹4,100 for a single-entry visa (a 25% reduction from old rates). Note that the Visa Service Center will also charge a separate service fee.
Step 7: Processing and Collection
The standard processing time for a China visa for Indians is 4 working days. If you are in a hurry, you can opt for the Express Service for an additional charge to receive it in 2–3 days. Once approved, you must return to the center to collect your passport.
How Long Can Indians Stay in China?
The stay duration is determined by the specific visa issued:
- Tourist (L) and Business (M) Visas: Usually allow stays between 30 and 90 days.
- Short-term Visas (Q2, S2, X2): Generally valid for up to 180 days.
Schedule an appointment: You have to schedule an appointment with the China embassy or consulate in India. You must take an appointment with the Chinese embassy or consulate that serves your legal residence state.
Attend the appointment: You have to attend the appointment, submit the documents, and have your biometric information collected during the China Embassy appointment. Additionally, you will go through an interview with the visa officer at China Embassy located in Delhi.
The China visa validity period may vary and depending on the type of China visa. You can get a visa that is valid for 30 to 180 days. The tourist visa and business visa are between 60 and 90 days. On the other hand, visas like X2, Q2, S2, and J2 are valid for 180 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I apply for China visa?
You can apply for China visa by submitting your application at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate, along with the required documents such as a valid passport, visa application form, and an invitation letter if necessary.
2. How do I apply for China visa from India?
To apply for China visa from India, you need to visit the nearest Chinese Visa Application Center, fill out the visa form, and provide documents like passport, photographs, and travel itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I apply for a China visa?
You can apply for a China visa by submitting your application at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate along with the required documents, including a valid passport, completed visa application form, and an invitation letter if applicable.
2. How do I apply for a China visa from India?
To apply for a China visa from India, you must visit the nearest Chinese Visa Application Center, complete the visa application form, and submit documents such as your passport, photographs, and travel itinerary.
3. What is the process for how to apply for a China visa from India?
The process involves identifying the correct visa type, completing the application form online, booking an appointment if required, and submitting your documents at the Chinese Embassy or Visa Application Center.
4. Where can I get the China visa application form online?
The China visa application form can be downloaded from the official Chinese Visa Application Service Center website and must be filled out accurately before submission.
5. Can I complete the China visa application online?
Yes, you can complete the China visa application online; however, the completed form must be printed and submitted in person at the Chinese Embassy or Visa Application Center.
6. Do I need to attend an interview for a China visa?
Interviews are generally not required for Tourist (L) visas but may be requested at the discretion of the visa officer depending on individual cases.
7. Is there a Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens traveling to China?
No. Except for limited transit and Hainan-specific exemptions, Indian passport holders must obtain a China visa before boarding their flight.
8. What happens if I miss a fingerprint appointment?
As fingerprint collection is exempt for most travelers in 2026, you typically do not need a separate appointment and can submit your application directly during designated submission hours.
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