China E-Visa Application Guide 2026

Last verified: June 20, 2026 · Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs ↗

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A China e-visa allows eligible foreign nationals to submit their visa application online, but some nationalities may still need to visit a CVASC for biometric collection or passport submission. This guide covers the complete application process, required documents, fees, and what to expect after submission.

What is an e-visa?

An e-visa is a digital visa that you apply for through an online portal. Once approved, you receive a PDF document that you print and present at immigration alongside your passport. Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need to visit a CVASC in person for biometric data collection or passport submission. It eliminates the need to mail your passport away, but does not always eliminate the need for an in-person visit.

Unlike the port visa, the e-visa must be applied for before you travel. Unlike the visa-free entry policy, it requires an application and payment. It is ideal for travelers whose nationality is not on the visa exemption list but who can complete the application process.

Eligibility

E-visa availability depends on the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. As of June 2026, the following regions have active e-visa programs:

• Southeast Asia: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia
• South Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar
• Africa: South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya
• Europe: Available through CVASC in select countries
• Americas: Available through CVASC in select countries

Important: This list changes periodically. Always check with your local Chinese diplomatic mission for current e-visa availability before starting your application.

Required documents

Before starting your e-visa application, prepare the following documents in digital format:

• Passport: Scanned bio page (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date, with at least 2 blank visa pages)
• Recent passport photo: White background, facing forward, no glasses, digital file in JPG or PNG format, exactly 33mm × 48mm
• Proof of travel: Round-trip flight booking confirmation (full itinerary)
• Accommodation proof: Hotel reservation for the entire stay period
• Invitation letter (if applicable): For business, study, or private visits
• Bank statements: Last 3 months of bank statements showing sufficient funds (amount varies by nationality)

Document format requirements:
• All scanned documents must be in JPG, PNG, or PDF format
• Each file must be under 2MB
• Passport photo must be exactly 33mm × 48mm in digital format
• File names must not contain special characters or spaces
✅ Use the official photo validation tool ↗ to ensure your digital photo meets all requirements before uploading.

Application process

The e-visa application is submitted online, but some nationalities require a follow-up visit to a CVASC. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Go to the official website: Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website for your country, or the embassy's e-visa portal.
2. Create an account: Register with your email address and create a password.
3. Fill out the application form: Enter your personal details, travel information, and upload the required documents.
4. Pay the visa fee: Pay online using a Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay card. If your payment fails repeatedly, try a different card issuer or contact the CVASC helpdesk — do not submit duplicate applications.
5. Submit the application: Review all information carefully before submitting. Errors may result in rejection.
6. Wait for processing: Standard processing takes 4-10 business days. Express service may be available for an additional fee.
7. Receive your e-visa: You will receive the approved e-visa via email as a PDF file. Print it out and carry it with your passport when you travel.

⚠️ Critical: Double-check every field before submitting. Even minor typos can result in visa rejection, and application fees are non-refundable. Ensure your passport number, name spelling, and travel dates match exactly with your flight bookings.

Fees and processing time

E-visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. Below are the standard fee ranges as of June 2026:

Processing times: Standard: 4-10 business days. Express: 2-3 business days (additional fee applies). Urgent: 1 business day (available in select locations only).

Fee ranges are based on publicly available CVASC data as of June 2026. Exact fees vary by nationality and visa type. Confirm with your local Chinese embassy before applying.