Get guidance on China visa cost, visa fees, and application steps before submitting your documents to the Chinese embassy or consulates.
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China Visa Cost (2026 Guide)
The China visa cost depends on nationality, visa type, and number of entries. Most applicants must submit their visa application to the Chinese embassy, consulates general, or a local visa office.
For U.S. citizens, typical visa fees range from $140–$185, while non U.S applicants usually pay $23–$68 depending on single entry or multiple entries visas. Faster processing time with express service may require an additional fee.
This guide explains China visa fees, payment methods, required supporting documents, and how to apply for a Chinese visa.
China Visa Types
China offers several visa types, including tourist (L), business (M), student (X), and work (Z) visas.
Visa Application
Complete the online application and submit documents to the Chinese embassy or consulates.
Required Documents
A valid passport, application form, and travel details are usually required.
Processing Time
Standard processing time is about 4 working days. Express service requires an additional fee.
How Much Does a China Visa Cost?
The China visa cost varies depending on nationality, visa type, and number of entries. In most cases, visa fees are determined by the principle of reciprocity between countries, meaning China often charges similar fees to those required for Chinese citizens traveling abroad.
For U.S. citizens, the standard China visa cost is typically between $140 and $185 depending on the visa type and current fee reductions. For non U.S applicants, the visa fees are usually lower.
Standard processing time for a Chinese visa application is about 4 working days, although express service and rush service may be available for an additional fee.
China Visa Fees (2026)
| Visa Type | U.S. Citizens | Non U.S Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Visa | $140 | $23 |
| Double Entry Visa | $140 | $34 |
| Multiple Entries (6 Months) | $140 | $45 |
| Multiple Entries (12 Months+) | $140 | $68 |
These visa fees apply to most ordinary visa types including tourist visa, business visa, and student visa.
The visa fees listed are currently applicable until December 31, 2026, following a temporary reduction introduced to promote international travel.
Additional China Visa Fees
Besides the basic visa fees, applicants may also need to pay an additional fee depending on the visa service selected.
Typical additional fees include:
| Service | Additional Fee |
|---|---|
| Express Service | $25 |
| Rush Service | $37 |
| Visa Service Center Fee | $80–$100 |
Express service usually reduces the processing time to 2–3 working days, while rush service may allow 1-day processing subject to approval by a consular officer.
When Do You Pay the China Visa Fee?
Applicants usually pay the visa fee after the visa application has been reviewed and processed.
Payment is typically made when applicants pick up their passport with the issued visa from the Chinese embassy, consulates general, or the visa office.
Accepted payment methods may include:
Visa or Mastercard
Money orders
Cashier’s checks
WeChat Pay or Alipay (in some consulates)
Most visa offices do not accept cash or personal checks, so applicants should check the payment details on the official site before submission.
China Visa Fees for U.S. Citizens
For U.S. citizens, the China visa cost is usually fixed for most visa types. Due to the reciprocity agreement between the United States and China, the visa fees are generally the same regardless of the number of entries requested.
As of 2026, the standard visa fee for U.S. citizens is typically $140, although the total fees may reach $185 depending on the visa service and processing options selected.
Many applicants from the United States apply for the 10-year multiple entries visa, which allows travelers to enter China multiple times using the same passport.
Typical Visa Fees for U.S. Citizens
| Visa Type | Entry Type | Visa Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (L Visa) | Single Entry | $140 |
| Tourist Visa (L Visa) | Multiple Entries | $140 |
| Business Visa (M Visa) | Multiple Entries | $140 |
| Student Visa (X Visa) | Entry Visa | $140 |
| Work Visa (Z Visa) | Entry Visa | $140 |
These visa fees apply when the visa application is submitted to the Chinese embassy, consulates general, or the official visa office responsible for the applicant’s state of residence.
Applicants must submit their application, passport, and required supporting documents before the visa can be processed.
10-Year Multiple Entry China Visa
One of the most popular visa options for U.S. citizens is the 10-year multiple entries visa.
This visa allows travelers to:
enter China multiple times during the visa validity period
stay up to 30–90 days per entry depending on the visa type
use the same visa as long as the passport remains valid
Many travelers choose this option because it reduces the need to apply for a new visa every time they travel to China.
Where U.S. Applicants Must Submit the Visa Application
U.S. applicants must submit their visa application to the Chinese embassy or one of the consulates general responsible for their residence.
For example, visa applications may be handled by:
Chinese Embassy in Washington D.C.
Chinese Consulate General in New York
Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles
Chinese Consulate General in San Francisco
Chinese Consulate General in Chicago
Applicants may submit their application in person or use a registered visa service agent to assist with the submission procedures.
Payment Methods for U.S. Visa Applicants
After the visa application is reviewed and approved, applicants must pay the required visa fees before collecting their passport.
Common payment methods accepted by the Chinese embassy or consulates include:
Visa card
Mastercard
money orders
cashier’s checks
Most visa offices do not accept cash or personal checks, so applicants should check the official site of the consulates for the correct payment details before submission.
China Visa Fees for Non-U.S. Citizens
For non U.S applicants, the China visa cost is usually lower than the fees charged to U.S. citizens. The exact visa fees depend on the applicant’s nationality, visa type, and number of entries requested.
In many countries, the visa fees are determined by reciprocity agreements. This means China may charge similar fees to those required for Chinese citizens applying for visas in those countries.
Typical Visa Fees for Non-U.S. Citizens
| Visa Type | Entry Type | Visa Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Single Entry | $23 |
| Tourist Visa | Double Entry | $34 |
| Tourist Visa | Multiple Entries (6 months) | $45 |
| Tourist Visa | Multiple Entries (12 months+) | $68 |
These fees apply to most ordinary visa types including tourist, business, student, and short-term travel visas.
However, applicants should always check the official site of the Chinese embassy, consulates, or local visa office for details, because the exact visa fees may vary depending on the country of residence.
Where Non-U.S. Applicants Must Submit Their Application
Most non U.S applicants must submit their visa application to the Chinese embassy, consulates general, or a designated visa office responsible for their place of residence.
In many countries, applications are handled through an official Chinese Visa Application Service Center, which provides visa services and collects visa fees on behalf of the embassy.
Applicants may submit the application:
in person
through a registered agent
or via a visa service center
Some consulates may request an interview if a consular officer needs additional details about the application.
Payment Methods for Non-U.S. Applicants
After the visa application is processed and approved, applicants must pay the required visa fees before they can pick up their passport.
Accepted payment methods usually include:
Visa card
Mastercard
money orders
cashier’s checks
In some visa offices, digital payment methods such as WeChat Pay or Alipay may also be accepted.
However, cash and personal checks are often not accepted, so applicants should check the official site of the embassy or consulates general for the correct payment procedures.
Additional China Visa Fees
Besides the basic visa fees, applicants may need to pay an additional fee depending on the visa service selected and the processing time requested.
Many visa offices and Chinese consulates provide several visa services, including express service and rush processing for urgent visa applications.
Express and Rush Visa Service Fees
| Service Type | Processing Time | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Service | About 4 working days | No extra fee |
| Express Service | 2–3 working days | $25 |
| Rush Service | 1 working day | $37 |
Express service usually reduces the processing time to about 2–3 business days. Rush service may allow 1-day processing, but it is subject to approval by a consular officer.
Applicants should note that these additional fees are charged per visa application and must be paid when the visa is processed and ready for collection.
Visa Service Center Fees
In many countries, visa applications are handled through a Chinese Visa Application Service Center rather than directly by the Chinese embassy.
These visa service centers provide administrative services such as:
receiving the application
checking supporting documents
collecting visa fees
returning the passport after the visa is issued
Because of these services, applicants may need to pay an additional fee of approximately $80–$100, depending on the visa office and country of residence.
Important Notes About Visa Fees
Applicants should remember several important details regarding China visa fees:
Visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
The visa fee must be paid when the visa is approved and ready for pick up.
Payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulates may vary by location.
Applicants should always check the official site of the visa office for details before submitting their application.
Understanding these additional fees helps travelers better estimate the total China visa cost before they apply.
China Visa Application Process
To apply for a Chinese visa, applicants must follow several application procedures and submit the required supporting documents to the appropriate Chinese embassy, consulates general, or authorized visa office.
Although some information can be completed through an online application, the final submission of the visa application form and passport usually must be done in person or through an authorized visa service agent.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Complete the online application
Fill out the visa application form online and ensure all details are correct before submission.Prepare supporting documents
Applicants must prepare the required supporting documents, including a valid passport, completed application form, and travel details.Submit the application
The application must be submitted to the Chinese embassy, consulates, or the designated visa office responsible for your place of residence.Application review
The visa application will be reviewed and processed by a consular officer.Pay the visa fee
After approval, applicants must pay the required visa fees before collecting the passport.Pick up the passport
Applicants or their agent can pick up the passport with the issued visa on the date indicated on the pick-up slip.
Important Notes About the Visa Application
Applicants should keep several important notes in mind when submitting a visa application:
Online submission alone is not accepted; applicants must still submit documents to the visa office.
Most visa applications cannot be sent by mail, fax, or online only.
Some applicants may be required to attend an interview if requested by a consular officer.
Always check the official site of the embassy or consulates for the latest application procedures.
Following the correct application process helps ensure the visa is processed smoothly and avoids delays in obtaining a Chinese visa.
Types of Chinese Visas
China offers several types of visa depending on the purpose of travel. The most common visa types include tourist, business, student, and work visas.
Each visa has different requirements, processing procedures, and permitted entry conditions. Some visas allow single entry, while others allow multiple entries within a specific validity period.
Below are the most common Chinese visa types.
Tourist Visa (L Visa)
The L visa is issued to travelers visiting China for tourism.
This visa is usually granted for single entry, double entry, or multiple entries, depending on the applicant’s travel plans.
Typical stay duration:
30–90 days per entry
Applicants must provide supporting documents such as:
valid passport
completed application form
travel details
Many U.S. citizens can obtain a 10-year multiple entries tourist visa.
Business Visa (M Visa)
The M visa is issued to individuals traveling to China for commercial or trade activities.
This visa is commonly used by business travelers who need to visit China for meetings, trade fairs, or supplier visits.
The M visa may allow:
single entry
double entry
multiple entries
Applicants must usually provide an invitation letter from a Chinese company as part of the supporting documents.
Student Visa (X Visa)
The X visa is issued to students studying in China.
There are two categories:
X1 visa – for study longer than 180 days
X2 visa – for study less than 180 days
Applicants must provide admission documents from a Chinese educational institution along with the visa application.
Work Visa (Z Visa)
The Z visa is issued to foreigners who will work in China.
Applicants must first obtain a work permit issued by Chinese authorities before they can apply for the visa.
After entering China with a Z visa, the applicant must convert it into a residence permit within the required time period.
China Visa Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Chinese visa application is usually about 4 working days after the application is submitted and accepted by the visa office, Chinese embassy, or consulates general.
However, the actual processing time may vary depending on the visa type, the number of applications, and local holidays.
Typical China Visa Processing Time
| Service Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Regular Service | About 4 working days |
| Express Service | 2–3 working days |
| Rush Service | 1 working day |
Express service allows applicants to receive their visa faster, while rush service may allow same-day or next-day processing, depending on the decision of the consular officer.
Applicants should check with the visa office for details, since not all consulates provide rush service.
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Frequently Asked Questions About China Visa Cost
How much does a China visa cost?
The China visa cost usually ranges from $23 to $185 depending on nationality, visa type, and number of entries.
Do visa fees change?
Yes. Visa fees may change depending on reciprocity agreements between countries and Chinese government policies.
When do applicants pay the visa fee?
Applicants must usually pay the visa fee when they collect their passport after the visa application has been processed.
Are China visa fees refundable?
No. Visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied.
Can someone else pick up the visa?
Yes. An authorized agent may pick up the passport and visa on behalf of the applicant.
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