Frequently Asked Questions about China

Visa validity indicates the period during which the visa holder has the right to enter China. The visa is valid from the date of issue, not the date of entry.

The number of entries (single, double, or multiple) indicates how often the traveler can enter China during the visa validity period.

With the approved duration of stay, Chinese authorities determine the maximum number of days the traveler can stay in China on each entry into the country. The duration of stay begins the day after entry into China.

The visa expires either a) upon the expiration of the validity period or b) after exhausting the number of possible entries. If your visa's validity period expires before you have used all entries, they expire automatically. You will need a new visa.

Entry into China is only possible if your visa is still valid and the number of entries into the country has not been exhausted. However, you can leave the country with an expired visa. Just remember not to exceed the maximum allowed stay in the country.

If you are in China, you have the option to apply to local security authorities for an extension of stay. However, your request is not automatically granted. Note that exceeding the allowed stay is prohibited by Chinese law.

The timing of when to submit documents depends primarily on the visa's validity period. Most visas to China are valid for 3 months. In such cases, it is recommended to submit visa documents about 1 month before departure. If your visa is valid for only 1 month or even less, submitting documents about two weeks before the trip is sufficient. If you submit documents too early, the visa validity may expire before your departure to China.

Yes, we offer visa services to all federal states in Germany. You can conveniently place your order by mail or courier. We will take care of the administrative formalities and deliver the visa to your home. If you live near our office in Brühl near Cologne, you can order or pick up the visa in person.

We will submit your visa application with the necessary documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). We will receive your passport and visa back from CVASC once the application is approved by the embassy.

The Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) is an independent service provider that processes visa applications for China on behalf of the Chinese embassy or consulate general. The goal of this organization is to meet the growing demand for visas to China.

German citizens do not need a visa to visit the special administrative regions of China - Hong Kong and Macau. However, please note that a visa is required once you leave either of these two regions and travel to other parts of China.

When planning your trip, please note the following: If you have stayed in mainland China and made a trip to Hong Kong or Macau, this is considered traveling "abroad." Re-entry into mainland China is only possible with a double or multiple entry visa.

No visa is required for transit at the airport for up to 24 hours. However, you are not allowed to leave the airport. Passengers with German or EU citizenship can also stay in Beijing, Shanghai, Dalian, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, Xi'an, Qingdao, Guilin, and Xiamen for up to 72 hours without a visa. Requirements for visa-free stays and more detailed information on transit can be found in the section "Transit Visa to China."

Unfortunately, you can only obtain a visa in Germany if you have a valid residence permit in Germany. If you actually live in Germany but are currently abroad, you can apply for a visa and receive it by mail.

No, Chinese authorities do not allow you to apply for a new visa in China while you are in the country. You must first leave the country. You can only apply for a visa in the country for which you have a valid residence permit.

Processing times depend on how quickly you need the visa, what type of visa you are ordering, and where your delivery address is located - in Germany or abroad. In our order form, you can find information on the processing times for your individual visa. Many visas can be delivered to you within 4, 6, 10, or 15 working days. Please note that if you choose a longer processing time for the visa, you will receive it at a more favorable price. The processing times mentioned are based on the assumption that your documents are prepared correctly. We recommend that you plan to obtain the visa well in advance of your trip.

No, China does not offer online submission of documents for a traditional Chinese visa. All documents must be submitted in paper form to the Chinese Visa Application Center. The exception is the electronic Chinese visa for groups of 2 or more people. You can apply for it online through us.

The documents you need to provide depend on the chosen visa category. All travelers require a passport, a color passport photo (48 x 33 mm), and an invitation (except for transit visas). Detailed information can be found in the individual visa categories.

If you are ordering a visa to China from us, after placing the order you will receive a detailed list of further procedures and all the documents you need to provide.

When applying for a visa to China, it is important that your passport is valid for at least 6 months on the day of application. In addition, two free pages are required for the visa.

When applying for a visa to China, an official invitation from the receiving party in China is usually required, containing information about the purpose of your trip. Tourist visas and transit visas are exceptions to this rule. For example, if you plan to study in China, you will receive an invitation from the local university. In the case of a work visa, the employer is responsible for the invitation letter. Please contact your contact person in China.

If you are traveling to China as a tourist, you do not need to have an invitation. If you do not have an invitation, confirmation of flight and hotel reservations will be sufficient as proof of the purpose of your trip when applying for a visa.

Proof of medical insurance is not required to obtain a visa. However, it is strongly recommended to arrange valid medical insurance and travel insurance for China before departure, as well as to assemble an individual first aid kit.

Yes, children also need to apply for a visa to China.

Yes, children need either a child's passport with a photo or a regular passport, like adults.

All foreign travelers in China are required to register with the local security authority. Usually, the registration period is 24 hours, but there are exceptions depending on the visa category. Detailed information on your obligations as a visitor to China can be found on our overview page dedicated to registration in China.

The best time to visit China is in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be very hot, and winters can be cold, especially in the northern part of the country.

Be sure to visit Beijing (Forbidden City, Great Wall of China), Shanghai (Pudong, The Bund), Xi'an (Terracotta Army), Guilin (beautiful karst landscapes), and Chengdu (panda center).

China has a well-developed public transportation network. You can use the metro, buses, taxis, and high-speed trains. High-speed trains are a convenient and fast way to travel between cities.

The official currency of China is the Yuan (CNY), also denoted as RMB. It is recommended to exchange money in advance or use ATMs that accept international cards.

Be sure to try Peking duck, dim sum, noodles, hot pot (Chinese fondue), and various local delicacies. Each region of China is famous for its unique dishes.

In general, China is considered a safe country for tourists. However, like in any other country, it is recommended to take precautions, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid unfavorable areas.

In China, it is important to show respect for local traditions. For example, when interacting with people, try to use both hands when passing objects, avoid pointing fingers at people, and refrain from excessive physical contact.

In China, it is not recommended to discuss political topics, local traditions, as well as issues related to Tibet and Taiwan. To create a pleasant atmosphere during a tea ceremony, it is better to talk about food, weather, or discuss family matters and hometown.