To apply for a China tourist visa (L visa), you need five core documents: a valid passport (6+ months remaining, 2 blank pages), a completed visa application form, a white-background passport photo (48×33mm), confirmed flight and hotel bookings, and 3 months of bank statements. Some nationalities need additional documents — this page gives you the full checklist, nationality notes, and the most common mistakes that lead to rejection.
Table of Contents
What is the core documents checklist for a China visa?
Required for virtually all applicants:
| # | Document | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Valid passport | ≥6 months validity from intended entry date; ≥2 blank visa pages |
| 2 | Visa application form (V.2013) | Download from embassy website; complete in black ink or typed; sign and date |
| 3 | Passport photo | White background; no glasses; full face, front-facing; 48mm×33mm; taken within 6 months |
| 4 | Return/onward flight tickets | Confirmed bookings showing entry into and exit from China |
| 5 | Accommodation proof | Hotel reservations for every night in China (flexible bookings accepted) |
| 6 | Bank statements | Last 3 months; showing sufficient balance to cover your stay |
Commonly requested (check your specific consulate):
- Travel insurance (required by some consulates, strongly recommended by all)
- Employment letter (on company letterhead, stating position, salary and approved leave)
- Student enrolment certificate (if student)
- Sponsor letter (if costs are covered by another person)
How much bank balance do I need to show for a China visa?
There is no officially published minimum amount — the embassy assesses “sufficient funds” in context. As a practical guide:
- Short trip (7–10 days): Show at least USD $1,500–2,000 in accessible funds
- 2-week trip: Show at least USD $2,500–3,000
- Longer trips: Roughly USD $100–150 per day of planned stay
Important: The bank statements must show a consistent balance over 3 months — not just a large deposit made immediately before applying. Sudden large deposits (sometimes called “bank statement padding”) are a known red flag and can lead to rejection.
Are visa requirements different by nationality?
The core documents are the same for almost all nationalities, but there are important differences:
US citizens: Face additional scrutiny and pay higher fees (USD $185) due to reciprocal visa policies. Some US applicants are also asked to provide more detailed travel itineraries.
UK citizens: Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer receive simplified EU-equivalent processing. Current fee is approximately GBP £151.
Australian/Canadian/NZ citizens: Standard requirements apply. Some consulates request proof of accommodation for the entire trip, not just the first hotel.
EU citizens (most): Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and several other EU countries currently qualify for visa-free entry for up to 15 days — no visa needed. Verify your current eligibility before applying unnecessarily.
What are the photo requirements for a China visa?
China’s passport photo requirements are strict — non-compliant photos are a leading cause of application delays.
Required specifications:
- Size: 48mm × 33mm (approximately 1.89″ × 1.30″)
- Background: Pure white — no off-white, cream or light grey
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
- Glasses: Not permitted — remove all glasses regardless of lens type
- Head position: Front-facing, centred, occupying 70–80% of the frame
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Quality: Printed on photo paper; no pixelation; no shadows on face or background
💡 Tip: Getting your photo taken at a dedicated passport photo service (chemist/pharmacy chains like Boots, Walgreens; or photo studios) ensures the specs are correct. Phone apps that generate compliant photos (like Passport Photo Online) also work well if you print on photo paper.
→ China Visa Photo Requirements: full spec guide 🔗
→ China Tourist Visa: requirements & application guide 🔗
→ China Visa Guide (Pillar Page)
What happens if I submit the wrong documents?
The most likely outcomes:
- Minor issues (wrong photo size, missing a copy): You may be asked to return with corrected documents on the same or next appointment.
- Incorrect application form: You’ll need to resubmit — the fee is not refunded.
- Missing key documents: Your application may be placed on hold, or rejected outright.
- Deliberate misrepresentation: Can result in a ban from future applications.
The consulate is not obligated to tell you exactly why an application was rejected. If you’re rejected, review all documents carefully, address the likely issue, and reapply. There is no formal appeals process.
What documents do I need for a China visa?
Core requirements: valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), completed application form, white-background passport photo (48×33mm), confirmed return flights, hotel bookings for the full stay, and 3 months of bank statements. Some nationalities also need employment letters, travel insurance or sponsor letters.
Does my passport need to be valid for 6 months for a China visa?
Yes — your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into China. You also need at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps. If your passport is due to expire within 6 months of your travel date, renew it before applying.
How much money do I need to show in my bank account for a China visa?
There’s no official minimum, but as a practical guide: show at least USD $1,500–2,000 for a short trip, USD $2,500–3,000 for two weeks. Importantly, the balance should reflect a consistent 3-month history — not a sudden large deposit made right before applying.
Can I use a cancellable hotel booking for my China visa application?
Yes — most Chinese consulates accept flexible, refundable hotel bookings as proof of accommodation. You don’t need to pay in advance or book non-refundable rates. Cancel them if your visa is denied.
