China visa fees are set on a reciprocal basis — meaning China charges the same amount your country charges Chinese citizens. For most nationalities, a single-entry tourist visa costs between USD $30–100. The main exceptions are US citizens (USD $185), UK citizens (GBP £151) and Canadian citizens (CAD $150), all of which are higher due to reciprocal pricing. This page gives the full 2026 fee table by nationality, explains what’s included, and covers service centre charges on top of the base fee.
Table of Contents
How much does a China visa cost by nationality?
The table below shows standard single-entry tourist (L) visa fees as of 2026. All fees are approximate and subject to change — always verify on your local Chinese embassy website before applying.
| Nationality | Single-Entry | Double-Entry | Multiple-Entry (6 months) | Multiple-Entry (12 months) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | USD $185 | USD $185 | USD $185 | USD $185 |
| UK Citizens | GBP £151 | GBP £151 | GBP £151 | GBP £151 |
| Canadian Citizens | CAD $150 | CAD $150 | CAD $150 | CAD $150 |
| Australian Citizens | AUD $90 | AUD $135 | AUD $180 | AUD $225 |
| Most EU Citizens | EUR €75 | EUR €75 | EUR €75 | EUR €75 |
| Singaporean Citizens | SGD $30 | SGD $45 | SGD $60 | SGD $75 |
| Malaysian Citizens | MYR $100 | MYR $150 | MYR $200 | MYR $250 |
| Most other nationalities | USD $30–60 | USD $45–90 | USD $60–120 | USD $90–150 |
⚠️ Note: US fees are uniform across all visa categories due to the current reciprocal pricing policy. EU fees are generally lower because the EU charges Chinese citizens lower fees. Fees can change at any time based on diplomatic decisions.
Are there extra charges when applying through a service centre?
Yes — if you apply through a Visa Application Service Centre (VASC) rather than directly at the Chinese consulate, a service fee is charged on top of the standard visa fee.
Typical VASC service fees:
- Standard service: USD/GBP/AUD $10–30 (varies by location)
- Posting/return courier: Additional $15–25 if you choose mail-back service
Is using a VASC worth it? Yes, for most applicants. VASCs are generally easier to get appointments at than consulates, have longer opening hours, and the service fee is modest. The main reason to apply directly at the consulate is if you need same-day or rush processing that the VASC doesn’t offer.
What does the visa fee include — and what doesn’t it cover?
The visa fee covers:
- Processing of your application
- The visa itself (sticker in your passport or eVisa PDF)
The visa fee does NOT cover:
- Service centre handling fees
- Courier/postal fees
- Translation of documents (if required)
- Third-party visa agency fees (if you use a visa agency)
- Photographs (you arrange these yourself)
Are visa fees refundable if my application is rejected? No — visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application. This is standard practice across virtually all visa applications globally.
Are there ways to reduce the cost of a China visa?
Check if you’re visa-free first: Citizens of 38+ countries can enter China without any visa at all. If your country is on the list, you pay nothing.
Check if you’re eVisa eligible: The eVisa costs the same as a standard embassy application but saves you the VASC service fee if you apply directly at the consulate.
Consider multiple-entry if you travel frequently: For frequent travellers, a multiple-entry visa (1 or 10-year validity) works out significantly cheaper per trip than applying for single-entry each time.
Use the consulate directly: In cities where you can book a consulate appointment directly, you avoid the VASC service fee. This requires more advance planning but saves $15–30.
How much does a China tourist visa cost?
It depends on your nationality. Most nationalities pay USD $30–100 for a single-entry tourist visa. US citizens pay USD $185, UK citizens GBP £151, Canadian citizens CAD $150, and Australian citizens AUD $90. Fees are set on a reciprocal basis and can change.
Why is the China visa so expensive for Americans?
The US–China visa fee is set on a reciprocal basis — China charges US citizens the same amount the US charges Chinese citizens for an equivalent visa. The US imposes higher visa fees on Chinese applicants, so China does the same in return.
Is the China visa fee refundable if my application is denied?
No — visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. This applies whether you apply directly at a consulate or through a VASC.
Do I pay the visa fee when I submit my application or when I collect my passport?
The fee is paid at the time of submission, not collection. Bring the correct amount in cash or check accepted payment methods with your specific consulate or VASC before your appointment.
