China rolls out simplified visa application process

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering international tourism and engagement, on 20 September 2023, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) announced that it will roll out improvements to the visa application process

According to the MFA, the improvements include “seven major and 15 sub-items”, but the main changes involve simplifying the visa application form by reducing the amount of background information applicants need to provide.

The changes follow the announcement in March 2023 that China would resume issuing all types of visas. Since 30 August 2023, travellers heading to China also do not have to take a Covid-19 nucleic acid test or antigen test before flying (although you may still be required to fill out a China Customs health declaration form).

How have the visa application forms changed?

The improvements to the visa application form are mainly related to educational background, family members, and travel history.

From now on, applicants will only have to give one year of travel history (cut from five years) and will only have to list their highest degree in the educational background section.

The MFA said that these changes will also significantly reduce the “textual content” of the forms (i.e., decrease the amount of information people have to wade through).

How does this affect business visas?

These improvements will also apply to M (business) visa application forms. Note that in addition to an application form, M visa applicants also need to provide an invitation letter with details of their planned visit. Click here for more details about the M visa application process and how CBBC can help with invitation letters.

Note: Visa requirements may be subject to change. Please check the website of the Embassy of China or the Chinese Visa Application Service Center nearest to you for the most up-to-date guidance.