China Port Visa (Visa on Arrival) Guide 2026

Last verified: June 20, 2026 · Source: National Immigration Administration ↗

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A China port visa (also called a visa on arrival) allows foreign nationals to obtain a visa at select Chinese entry ports when urgent travel makes it impossible to apply at an embassy in advance. It is not a universal alternative to a regular visa. You must have a legitimate reason for urgent entry and meet specific eligibility criteria.

What is a port visa?

A port visa is a special category of Chinese visa issued by the Exit-Entry Administration of the Public Security Bureau at designated ports of entry. It is designed for travelers who need to enter China urgently and cannot wait for the standard visa application process at a Chinese embassy or consulate abroad.

Unlike the 240-hour visa-free transit policy or the unilateral visa exemption, the port visa requires an application, supporting documents, and payment of a fee. Pro tip: You can submit your application in advance to the port visa authority — either yourself or through an inviting party — and receive preliminary approval before traveling. The NIA recommends this approach to avoid issues upon arrival.

Who qualifies?

Port visas are available to foreign nationals who meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Urgent business: Invited by a Chinese company or organization for time-sensitive commercial activities, trade fairs, or contract negotiations.
• Emergency family matters: Visiting a family member in China who is seriously ill, has passed away, or requires urgent care.
• Confirmed tourism with agency invitation: Traveling as part of a tour group organized by a registered Chinese travel agency that can provide an invitation letter.
• Other urgent reasons: Humanitarian visits, emergency medical treatment, or other situations deemed valid by the immigration officer.

Important: You cannot obtain a port visa simply because you forgot to apply in advance. You must provide documentation proving the urgency of your travel.

Application process

You can apply in advance or on arrival. The NIA recommends submitting your application to the port visa authority before traveling, either yourself or through an inviting party, to obtain preliminary approval. This avoids the risk of being denied entry upon arrival. Here is the process:

1. Option A — Apply in advance (recommended): Contact the port visa authority at your intended port of entry before traveling. Submit your passport copy, supporting documents, and invitation letter. Receive preliminary approval, then proceed to the port visa counter upon arrival for final processing.
2. Option B — Apply on arrival: After disembarking, look for the "Port Visa" or "Visa on Arrival" counter before reaching the immigration checkpoint. Do not proceed through immigration first.
3. Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form provided at the counter. The form is available in English at major ports.
4. Submit supporting documents: Provide your passport (valid for at least 6 months), a recent passport photo, the invitation letter or other proof of urgency, and a completed arrival card.
5. Pay the fee: Pay the visa fee in Chinese RMB or by international credit card, depending on the port.
6. Wait for processing: Processing typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, though it may take longer during peak periods or if additional verification is needed.
7. Receive your visa: Once approved, the visa sticker is placed in your passport. Proceed to the immigration checkpoint for entry clearance.

Key requirement: An invitation letter from a Chinese entity is the most critical document for most port visa applications. For business visits, this is a formal invitation from a registered Chinese company. For tourism, it is an invitation from a licensed Chinese travel agency. Without a valid invitation letter, your application will almost certainly be denied.

Fees and processing time

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

Processing time is typically 30 minutes to 2 hours for straightforward applications. Complex cases requiring additional verification may take up to 24 hours. Plan your onward connection accordingly.

Restrictions and important notes

• Widely available: Port visa services are provided at 99 ports in 72 cities nationwide. Major international airports in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu are the most common entry points. Smaller airports and land borders may have limited availability. Confirm with the port authority before traveling.
• Not guaranteed: Immigration officers have full discretion to approve or deny a port visa application. An invitation letter does not guarantee approval.
• Shorter validity: Port visas typically allow a stay of 30 days, compared to 30-90 days for a standard tourist visa issued abroad.
• Single entry only in most cases: Unless you specifically apply for and are granted a multiple-entry visa, the port visa is valid for a single entry.
• Hotel registration: As with all foreign visitors, you must register your accommodation within 24 hours of arrival.

When to use a port visa vs. other options:
Use a port visa when you have an urgent, documented reason to travel and cannot get a visa in advance.
Use the 240-hour transit if you are passing through China to a third country.
Use the visa-free entry if your country is on the exemption list and you are staying 30 days or less.