China Tourist Visa (L Visa) application process for Indian passport holders
Eligibility & Core Requirements
Indian citizens must obtain an L Visa in advance no visa-on-arrival or e-visa option.
Passport criteria: issued within the last 10 years; at least 6 months’ validity from date of entry; minimum 2 blank pages.
Purpose limited strictly to tourism, sightseeing, or visiting friends/family (up to 30 days). Paid work, business, study, or settlement are not permitted.
Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to India (employment, property, family) and clear intent to return, with no history of overstays.
Comprehensive Document Checklist & Evidence
Original passport and photocopies of biodata, visa pages, and any old passports.
Signed printout of the completed COVA (China Online Visa Application) form.
Two recent passport-size photos (48 × 33 mm, white background, digital print).
Confirmed round-trip air tickets and reserved hotel bookings or invitation letter plus Chinese host’s ID if staying with friends/family.
Detailed day-by-day itinerary with local contacts.
Personal bank statements for the last 6 months showing sufficient funds (currently ≥ INR 100,000, subject to embassy guidance).
Cover letter outlining trip purpose, duration, and expense guarantee.
Employment proof (employer’s letter and salary slips), business registration/tax returns for self-employed, student enrollment certificate, or pension proof.
International travel insurance (highly recommended).
For minors: birth certificate, parents’ passports, and notarized consent letters.
Permitted & Prohibited Activities
Permitted: leisure tourism, visiting friends/family, approved cultural events, sightseeing, and short courses/events.
Prohibited: paid work, business activities, long-term study, religious residency, migration intent, overstaying, or undeclared activities.
Recent Policy & Process Updates (2025)
No prior online appointment required walk-in submissions at China Visa Application Centers during working days.
Fingerprint collection is generally waived for short-term tourist visas.
Enhanced scrutiny of financial documentation and return intent; genuine, well-organized documents are essential.
Digital form submission and clear formatting of documents; verify the latest photo and document specifications before applying.
Typical processing time is 4–7 working days; apply at least 1 month before travel to accommodate potential delays.
Application Workflow
Complete, print, sign, and compile all COVA form pages and supporting documents per the China Visa Application Center checklist.
Submit in person to the designated center; provide biometrics only if expressly requested.
Track application status online; promptly respond to any additional document requests.
Collect and verify your passport and visa details upon approval.
Role & Value of Professional Visa Service Providers (JKVTravel.com)
Pre-screen eligibility, advise on correct visa type, and provide an up-to-date document checklist.
Assist with digital application, photo formatting, and document uploads in line with current policy changes.
Manage timely submissions, proactive center communication, and support for additional requests or reapplications if needed.
Professional assistance minimizes errors, reduces refusal risk, and streamlines the process allowing clients to focus on their travel plans with less stress.
Disclaimer: Final visa decisions rest solely with Chinese authorities. While expert support enhances application quality and approval probability, no agent can guarantee 100% success or influence processing times.