China visa FAQ

Common questions

Apply for China Visa

When should I apply?

No earlier than 2-3 months before departure. Can be issued in 1 day, but apply early to avoid delays.

How long does it take?

1 to 8 business days (pending complete documents).

How fast can I get it?

China Visa Express takes 1 business day if documents arrive by noon. Fingerprints may extend time.

How many entries?

Depends on visa type. Tourist max double entry. Business can be multiple entry if you had a previous business visa.

What is the duration of stay?

Tourist up to 60 days (90 on private invite). Business up to 90 days per entry.

Difference between validity and duration?

Duration is how long you can stay once you enter. Validity (Expiry Date) is the last day you can enter China.

Costs

How much does a China visa cost?

Standard tourist visa starts at 196 EUR incl. VAT, embassies fees, and service (8 business days). Faster processing costs more.

Additional services?

We offer manual application transfer to the online form. We also offer free advice regarding invitation letters.

Contact Points

Where can I apply?

Via our Visa Service. We submit it to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

Where should I send my documents?

If no fingerprints needed, to Berlin. If fingerprints needed, to Frankfurt (if you live in NRW, BW, Hessen, RLP, Saarland), otherwise Berlin.

Where do I submit fingerprints?

At the Chinese Visa Center in Berlin or Frankfurt. Our staff will accompany you.

Application Preparation

What about the new application form?

Must be filled out on the Visa Center homepage. Choose correct location. We also offer a German PDF alternative.

Required documents?

Application form, passport valid 6 months, biometric photo. Others vary by type.

Online only?

Yes, but we provide a PDF alternative for you to do by hand and we transcribe it for a fee.

Photo requirements?

Digital format, min 40kb, 3.5x4.5cm. White background, looking straight, no white clothing, no jewelry, no thick glasses. Must be within 6 months.

Photo upload error?

The system auto-checks. Even if it complains, the Visa Center might still accept it.

Travel Information

Do I need a visa for Hong Kong/Macau?

No visa needed for tourism up to 90 days. But returning to mainland China requires a new entry on your visa.

Entry requirements?

Passport with 6 months validity and valid visa. Exceptions apply for transit.

Vaccinations?

No mandatory vaccinations, but WHO recommends measles, yellow fever (if applicable), Hepatitis A/B, Rabies, Typhoid depending on the duration.