Since the Beijing Olympics of 2008, there has been a large increase in the amount of foreign travelers coming into China. In recent years, with China’s economic and cultural rise, more and more people are choosing to come to China for travel, work and study. Just as Chinese people are traveling abroad in record numbers, so are foreign travelers entering China in record numbers each year.
I am a Mandarin Chinese language student currently studying in Beijing. Prior to securing my study visa, I have been through the application process for a few Chinese tourist visas. I put together my experience to help you navigate the visa application process.
Here are my answers to 10 common questions that visa applicants to China will have when applying for the China visa:
#1: Where can I apply for a visa?
Foreign citizens should apply for visas in advance to a Chinese "大使馆 (dàshǐ guǎn) embassy" or consulate authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Chinese embassies and consulates abroad are divided into consular districts. Applicants are encouraged to apply for visas from the embassy or consulate of their place of residence for best results.
#2: How to check up on the progress of your application?
For some special circumstances, the embassies and "领事馆 (lǐngshìguǎn) consulates" abroad also have the right to extend the time for approval of the visa. After the approval, applicants will be notified by phone or email. If you have special requests, you can contact the relevant embassy or consulate by telephone.
#3: Can the visa be processed for "延期 (Yánqī) extension"?
After the visa expires, the applicant should apply again. When applying for a visa, the parties should indicate the duration and dates of stay in China on the visa application form.
#4: What is the meaning of the residence certificate "免签 (miǎn qiān) exemption"?
Foreigners holding a valid residence certificate may stay in China for multiple periods of entry and exit during the period of validity of their residence permit, and no additional visa is required.
#5: What are some urgent issues to be aware of when preparing visa application materials?
The types of visas available are classified according to the reasons for entry: study visa, tourist visa, work visa, business visa and family visa.The consular officer may request that... Read More
Quiz:
1. Which of the following place can't apply for a visa?