China Visa Requirements 2026

Indian passport holders need a visa for China. The Chinese Embassy lists Rs 2,900 for a single-entry visa, Rs 4,400 for double entry and Rs 5,900 for six-month multiple entry, with regular processing in 7 working days. Apply on China’s online visa system, then submit your passport at the Chinese Embassy or the Consulate General in Mumbai.

Passport with blank visa pages; Online application form and photo; Round-trip flight booking and hotel reservation, or an invitation letter; Itinerary.

Single-entry visa: Rs 2,900. Double-entry visa: Rs 4,400. Multiple entry, 6 months: Rs 5,900. Multiple entry, 12 months or more: Rs 8,800. These are the fees the Chinese Embassy lists for Indian passport holders. Express service (4 working days) costs Rs 1,800 extra, and urgent service (2 working days, where available) Rs 2,700. From 26 October 2026 the Embassy and the Consulate General in Mumbai accept applications directly, and fees are paid by demand draft only.

Regular service takes 7 working days and express service 4 working days, counted from the day after you submit your passport. Urgent service in 2 working days is available in some cases.

A visa cover letter is a formal document submitted with your visa application that explains the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, financial means, accommodation details, and your intent to return home. While not always mandatory, a well-written cover letter helps visa officers understand your case quickly and can strengthen your application.

You can track your visa application status online through the official embassy or consulate website using your application reference number. Most visa application centres (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) also provide online tracking portals where you can check your application status in real time.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the destination country only once during its validity period. A multiple-entry visa permits you to enter and exit the country multiple times. Multiple-entry visas are ideal for frequent travellers and are often valid for longer durations such as 1, 3, or 5 years.

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the specific reason for the decision. You may be able to reapply by addressing the concerns mentioned, file an appeal if the country's regulations allow it, or request a reconsideration. It is advisable to seek professional advice before reapplying.

Yes, children typically require their own visa even if they are travelling with parents. In some cases, minors can be included on a parent's application. Additional documents such as birth certificates, parental consent letters from both parents, and school enrolment letters are usually required for minor applicants.

The 6-month passport validity rule requires your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the destination country. This is a common requirement for many countries worldwide. If your passport does not meet this requirement, your visa application may be denied even if all other documents are in order.