While information about travelling to China and obtaining an entry visa is readily available on numerous blogs and websites, I found that many of these sources tend to be brief and sometimes inaccurate. Having gone through the visa application process myself, I wanted to create a more detailed, reliable guide based on my own experience and trusted resources.
When I first applied for a Chinese visa, I encountered several challenges. Since I decided to apply on my own without prior experience, I was quite confused about how to prepare my documents. The internet is flooded with information, but most of it is superficial, which only added to my uncertainty about which sources to trust.
Fortunately, a friend recommended the Visana website . With their sample documents and guidance, I was able to compile a complete and satisfactory application, while also picking up a few helpful tips for ensuring a successful visa approval. Here’s my detailed breakdown for fellow travellers.
Required Documents for a Chinese Tourist Visa
Your application should include:
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Original passport (valid for at least six months with blank pages)
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Two 4×6 cm photos (white background, full face)
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A notarised copy of your national ID card
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A notarised copy of your household registration (for first-time applicants)
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A copy of your birth certificate (for minors travelling with you)
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Visa application form (available at the Chinese Embassy; complete as instructed)
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The Forbidden City of China Employment contract, recruitment decision, or appointment letter (for first-time applicants)
Important Tips to Keep in Mind
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Complete the visa application form in full: The form is straightforward, so ensure there are no blank fields. Missing information can result in immediate rejection.
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Employment contract: I recommend submitting a bilingual Vietnamese–English contract in case the consular officer requests it. If your company does not provide bilingual contracts, you can easily find a sample in Visana’s visa application package.
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Flight/train tickets, hotel booking, and itinerary: The Embassy may request these documents. Many booking platforms allow free cancellations, so you can prepare these even if your travel plans aren’t finalised. Be sure to obtain a stamped confirmation from the hotel and include it in your application.
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The Most Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa Detailed itinerary: Even if not strictly required, a clear day-by-day itinerary will make your application look more professional.
When to Apply for Your Visa
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A tourist visa for China is valid for three months from the date of issue. You can apply for either a single-entry or double-entry visa, allowing you to stay up to 30 days per entry (not 15 days as in the past).
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Based on my experience, you should submit your application around one month before your trip. This gives you enough time to fix any issues without applying too early.
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The standard processing time is 4–6 working days, but recently it can take up to 7–10 days, so plan accordingly.
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Ideally, apply 1–2 months before your trip to allow for delays, resubmissions, or missing documents.
How to Submit Your Visa Application
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The Great Wall of China Where to apply: Submit your application at the Chinese Embassy in Hanoi or the Chinese Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, depending on your household registration. If your permanent address is in Hanoi but you live in Ho Chi Minh City, you will need proof of temporary residence to apply there.
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Submission hours: From my experience, applications are only accepted from 9:00 to 11:00 AM on weekdays, so plan to arrive early. Expect to spend the entire morning, as there is no guarantee when your turn will come.
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Visa interview: This step is usually less intimidating than most people expect. Stay calm, answer questions clearly, and demonstrate that your travel intentions are genuine. Knowing your itinerary well will help.
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Visa fee: This is the consular fee. I paid USD 60 in cash at ICBC Bank, 360 Kim Ma, Hanoi. In Ho Chi Minh City, the designated bank will be listed on your payment slip. Note: payment must be in US dollars.
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Collecting your visa: Pick it up at the same place you submitted your application, on the date stated on your receipt. If you cannot collect it yourself, you may authorise a family member or friend to do so. Otherwise, using a visa service company from the start can save time and effort.
I hope my experience helps make your Chinese visa application smoother and your trip more enjoyable. If you find these tips useful, share them with friends and family who are planning their own journey to China.
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