China Tourist Visa (L Visa) application process for Indian passport holders

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.