Planning more than 10 days in China? The L visa is straightforward — if you know the documents, photo specs and where to apply.
When to use the L visa
Use the tourist (L) visa when your trip is longer than 10 days, or when you plan to enter through a port not covered by visa-free transit. Single, double and multi-entry options exist.
Documents you need
- Passport, valid 6+ months past return, with 2 blank pages.
- Completed visa application form (online at the CVASC portal, then printed).
- Recent photo, white background, 33 × 48 mm, no glasses.
- Confirmed return flight itinerary.
- Hotel reservations for the entire trip (refundable bookings are accepted).
- Invitation letter from a Chinese host OR detailed self-arranged itinerary.
Where to apply
China uses the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) network. Centres exist in most major cities including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, London, New York, Sydney.
Processing time
- Standard: 4 working days
- Express: 3 working days (+ surcharge)
- Rush: 2 working days (+ higher surcharge, where available)
Fees (USD, vary by nationality)
- Single entry: 30 - 140
- Double entry: 45 - 140
- 6-month multi: 60 - 140
- 12-month multi: 90 - 140
Plus a CVASC service fee of USD 50-80.
Common mistakes
- Sending the form with handwritten edits — not accepted.
- Photo with glasses, smile or hair covering ears — rejected.
- Itinerary without hotel addresses — flagged.
- Old passport with prior China visas — bring it.
Skip the queue
Our team handles end-to-end L visa applications for trips we plan, including invitation letters, hotel confirmations and CVASC submission. Most clients receive their passport back in 5-7 working days. Talk to us.
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