Can I extend my tourist visa while in China?

It is generally possible to apply for a visa extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration Department in China. However, extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the authorities. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your visa's expiry.

Do I need a visa if I am only transiting through China?

China offers a 24-hour, 72-hour, or 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of certain countries, including India, under specific conditions (e.g., holding confirmed onward tickets to a third country/region). However, this policy has strict requirements regarding entry/exit points and duration. If your transit does not meet these conditions, or if you plan to leave the transit city, a G-visa (Transit Visa) is required.

Can I work in China on a tourist visa?

No, working in China on a tourist (L) visa is strictly prohibited. Engaging in any form of employment without the appropriate work visa (Z-visa) can lead to severe penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.

What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen in China?

If your passport is lost or stolen, you should immediately report it to the local police station to obtain a police report. Then, contact the Embassy of India in Beijing or the nearest Indian Consulate General to apply for an emergency travel document or a new passport. After obtaining new travel documents, you must apply for an exit visa from the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration Department before you can leave China.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a Chinese visa?

While not explicitly listed as a mandatory document for the visa application, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances during your stay in China.

InfoOnVisa

From IN To CN

Embassy visa required

Indian citizens need a visa in advance from a Chinese Embassy or Consulate (or through a Visa Application Service Center) before travelling to China.

Indian citizens are required to obtain a visa prior to their travel to China for tourism purposes. The application process typically involves submitting documents to a Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or directly to a Chinese Embassy/Consulate.

Last verified: 12 Jul 2026 Official source: Chinese Visa Application Service Center (New Delhi)

Visa types & details

Choose a visa category to see its details — all options for India → China.

L-Visa (Tourist Visa)

Validity

Typically 3 months to 1 year, as granted by the consular officer.

Max stay

Typically 30-90 days per entry, as granted by the consular officer.

Entries

Single, double, or multiple entry, as granted by the consular officer.

Processing time

Typically 4-7 working days for regular service, with express and urgent services available at an additional charge.

Best for

For those who intend to go to China as a tourist.

Government fee: fees vary by visa type and nationality and change often. Check the official fee portal

Documents required for Indian citizens

Tick items as you collect them — 0 of 8 ready.

PassportOriginal passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages, and a photocopy of the passport's data page and the photo page if it is separate.
Visa Application FormDuly completed and signed Chinese Visa Application Form (Form V.2013).
PhotoOne recently taken (within 6 months) color passport-sized photo (48mm x 33mm) with a white background, full face, front view, and no head covering (unless for religious reasons).
Flight ItineraryRound-trip flight booking confirmation.
Hotel ReservationProof of hotel reservation or an invitation letter from an individual or entity in China.
Proof of FundsBank statements or other financial documents proving sufficient funds for the trip. The specific amount is not fixed but should be adequate for the duration of stay.
Employment Certificate/Student IDIf employed, a letter from the employer stating position, salary, and approval for leave. If a student, a letter from the educational institution.
Previous Chinese Visas (if any)Photocopies of previous Chinese visas and entry/exit stamps.

How to apply for a China visa from India

Follow these steps in order.

1

Complete the online visa application form accurately and truthfully on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website.
CVASC Online Application Form
2

Book an appointment online through the CVASC website for submitting your application documents.
CVASC Appointment Booking
3

Gather all required documents as per the checklist provided by the CVASC for your specific visa type.
4

Visit the CVASC on your scheduled appointment date with all original documents and photocopies. Submit your application and pay the visa fee and service charge.
5

Track your application status online using the reference number provided by the CVASC.
6

Collect your passport with the visa from the CVASC once your application is processed.

Common China visa rejection reasons

Why India → China applications get refused — and how to avoid it.

Incomplete or inconsistent application documents.

How to avoid: Ensure all required fields in the application form are filled correctly and all supporting documents are provided as per the checklist. Double-check for any discrepancies between documents.
Insufficient proof of funds.

How to avoid: Provide bank statements or other financial proofs that clearly demonstrate you have adequate funds to cover your expenses for the entire duration of your planned stay in China.
Unclear or suspicious travel itinerary/purpose.

How to avoid: Submit a detailed and realistic travel itinerary, including confirmed flight and hotel bookings. Ensure your stated purpose of visit aligns with the visa type you are applying for.
Previous visa violations or overstays.

How to avoid: Always adhere to visa regulations and the permitted duration of stay. If you have any past violations, be prepared to provide a clear explanation and supporting documents.
Passport validity issues or damaged passport.

How to avoid: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of entry into China and has sufficient blank pages. Your passport must be in good condition.

Trip essentials

Hand-picked tools for your China trip.

Travel insurance

Cover for medical emergencies & delays.

Compare plans Soon

eSIM & data

Get online the moment you land.

Get an eSIM Soon

Flights

Compare routes to China.

Find flights Soon

Stays

Hotels & rentals at your destination.

Browse stays Soon

Things to know & places to visit

Practical tips and top destinations.

Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, and keep the originals in a safe place.
Be aware of local customs and etiquette. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be very helpful.
Internet access can be restricted; consider using a VPN service if you need access to certain international websites and apps.
Keep small denominations of local currency (RMB) for purchases, especially outside major cities.

Best time to visit

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather across most of China, making them ideal for tourism.

Top places

📍 The Great Wall of China
📍 Forbidden City, Beijing
📍 Terracotta Army, Xi'an
📍 Shanghai Bund
📍 Guilin and the Li River

Frequently asked questions

It is generally possible to apply for a visa extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration Department in China. However, extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the authorities. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your visa's expiry.
China offers a 24-hour, 72-hour, or 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of certain countries, including India, under specific conditions (e.g., holding confirmed onward tickets to a third country/region). However, this policy has strict requirements regarding entry/exit points and duration. If your transit does not meet these conditions, or if you plan to leave the transit city, a G-visa (Transit Visa) is required.
No, working in China on a tourist (L) visa is strictly prohibited. Engaging in any form of employment without the appropriate work visa (Z-visa) can lead to severe penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.
If your passport is lost or stolen, you should immediately report it to the local police station to obtain a police report. Then, contact the Embassy of India in Beijing or the nearest Indian Consulate General to apply for an emergency travel document or a new passport. After obtaining new travel documents, you must apply for an exit visa from the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration Department before you can leave China.
While not explicitly listed as a mandatory document for the visa application, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances during your stay in China.

This page is AI-assisted and last verified on 12 Jul 2026. Visa rules change — always confirm on the official source before you travel.