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.

Is it possible to work in China on a tourist visa?

No, it is strictly prohibited to engage in any form of employment or paid work while in China on a tourist (L) visa. Doing so can lead to severe penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.

What is the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy?

Certain cities in China offer a visa-free transit policy for travelers from specific countries (including the US) who are transiting through China to a third country or region. This allows a stay of up to 72 or 144 hours without a visa, provided specific conditions are met, such as holding a confirmed onward ticket and staying within designated administrative areas. This is not a tourist visa and has strict limitations.

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

If your passport is lost or stolen in China, you should immediately report it to the local police and obtain a police report. Then, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate General in China to apply for an emergency passport or travel document. You will also need to apply for a new visa or exit permit from the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) before you can leave China.

Can I apply for a Chinese visa by mail?

Generally, first-time applicants or those who have changed passports are required to submit their applications in person at a Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). Some CVASC locations may offer mail-in services for specific categories or through authorized agencies, but it's best to confirm with the specific center you plan to use.

InfoOnVisa

From US To CN

Embassy visa required

United States citizens need a visa from a Chinese Embassy or Consulate before travelling to China.

Citizens of the United States are required to obtain a visa prior to their travel to China for tourism purposes. The application process typically involves completing an online form, gathering supporting documents, and submitting the application in person at a Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or a Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in the United States.

Last verified: 12 Jul 2026 Official source: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America

Visa types & details

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

L Visa (Tourist)

Validity

Up to 10 years for multiple-entry visas for US citizens.

Max stay

Typically 60 days per entry, sometimes 90 days per entry. Subject to discretion of the issuing officer.

Entries

Single, Double, or Multiple Entry (often 10-year multiple entry for US citizens)

Processing time

Typically 4 business days for regular service, with expedited options available for additional fees. Processing times can vary based on the specific consulate/CVASC and application volume.

Best for

For those who intend to go to China as a tourist. Requires travel itinerary, including round-trip air ticket booking and hotel reservations, or an invitation letter from a relevant entity or individual in China.

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

Documents required for American citizens

Tick items as you collect them — 0 of 7 ready.

PassportOriginal passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of entry, with at least two blank visa pages. A photocopy of the passport's data page and the photo page (if separate) is also required.
Visa Application FormOne completed Visa Application Form of the People's Republic of China (Form V.2013) filled out online and printed. All sections must be completed accurately and truthfully.
PhotoOne recently-taken (within 6 months) color passport-style photo (48mm x 33mm) against a white background, attached to the application form. Must meet specific requirements for size, clarity, and background.
Proof of Travel ItineraryRound-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations for the entire duration of stay in China. If visiting friends/family, an invitation letter may substitute hotel bookings.
Invitation Letter (if applicable)If invited by an individual or entity in China, an invitation letter containing information about the applicant, the visit, and the inviter. This is often required for L visas if not staying in hotels, and mandatory for M and Q2 visas.
Proof of Financial MeansWhile not always explicitly listed as mandatory for L visas, applicants may be asked to provide bank statements or other proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during their stay in China.
Previous Chinese VisasIf you have obtained Chinese visas before, provide a photocopy of the previous Chinese visa. If your name on the current passport differs from that on the previous passport, a copy of the official name change document is required.

How to apply for a China visa from United States

Follow these steps in order.

1

Complete the Visa Application Form online. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
China Online Visa Application (COVA)
2

Print the confirmation page and the full application form. Sign the application form as required.
3

Gather all required supporting documents, including your passport, photo, flight and hotel bookings, and any invitation letters.
4

Schedule an appointment at the nearest Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in the United States. Appointments are typically mandatory.
5

Submit your application in person at your scheduled appointment. Some CVASC locations may offer mail-in services for specific categories or through authorized agencies, but in-person submission is common.
6

Pay the visa application fee and service fee (if applying through CVASC) upon submission or collection, as instructed by the processing center.
7

Collect your passport with the visa from the Embassy, Consulate, or CVASC once your application has been processed.

Common China visa rejection reasons

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

Incomplete or inconsistent application documents.

How to avoid: Double-check that all required fields on the application form are filled, all supporting documents are provided, and information across documents is consistent (e.g., names, dates). Ensure photos meet specifications.
Unclear travel purpose or itinerary.

How to avoid: Provide a clear and detailed travel itinerary, including confirmed flight bookings and hotel reservations. If invited, ensure the invitation letter is comprehensive and credible. Avoid vague plans.
Insufficient proof of financial means.

How to avoid: While not always mandatory for L visas, be prepared to show bank statements or other evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in China. This demonstrates you won't become a public charge.
Passport validity or condition issues.

How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and has at least two blank visa pages. Passports that are damaged or heavily worn may be rejected.
Previous visa overstays or violations.

How to avoid: If you have previously overstayed a visa or violated immigration laws in China or other countries, it can negatively impact your current application. Always adhere to visa terms and conditions.
Lack of strong ties to home country.

How to avoid: While not explicitly requested for tourist visas, consular officers may assess if you have sufficient ties to your home country (e.g., employment, property, family) to ensure you will return. Provide supporting documents if available and relevant.

Trip essentials

Hand-picked tools for your China trip.

Travel insurance

Cover for medical emergencies & delays.

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eSIM & data

Get online the moment you land.

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Flights

Compare routes to China.

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Stays

Hotels & rentals at your destination.

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Things to know & places to visit

Practical tips and top destinations.

Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, and leave the originals securely stored at your accommodation.
Be aware of local customs and etiquette. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be very helpful.
Internet access may 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 in smaller establishments.

Best time to visit

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather across most of China, making them ideal for tourism. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be very cold, especially in the north.

Top places

📍 The Great Wall of China
📍 Forbidden City (Beijing)
📍 Terracotta Army (Xi'an)
📍 The Bund (Shanghai)
📍 Li River (Guilin)
📍 Panda Research Base (Chengdu)

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.
No, it is strictly prohibited to engage in any form of employment or paid work while in China on a tourist (L) visa. Doing so can lead to severe penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.
Certain cities in China offer a visa-free transit policy for travelers from specific countries (including the US) who are transiting through China to a third country or region. This allows a stay of up to 72 or 144 hours without a visa, provided specific conditions are met, such as holding a confirmed onward ticket and staying within designated administrative areas. This is not a tourist visa and has strict limitations.
If your passport is lost or stolen in China, you should immediately report it to the local police and obtain a police report. Then, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate General in China to apply for an emergency passport or travel document. You will also need to apply for a new visa or exit permit from the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) before you can leave China.
Generally, first-time applicants or those who have changed passports are required to submit their applications in person at a Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). Some CVASC locations may offer mail-in services for specific categories or through authorized agencies, but it's best to confirm with the specific center you plan to use.

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