In this guide, you’ll find everything required to apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa), from basic definitions and standard paperwork to recent visa-free policies, special procedures for former Chinese nationals and minors of Chinese origin, online form tips, and strategies for a smooth entry and stay.

What Is the China Tourist Visa (L Visa)?

The L Visa is the standard entry permit for travelers visiting China for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, or attending cultural or sports events. It’s the most common visa type and applies to nationals of all countries that don’t qualify for visa-free entry.

Who Must Apply for an L Visa?

If you’re not a citizen of one of the visa-exempt countries, you must hold an L Visa to enter mainland China for tourism.
– Nationals of 15 European and ASEAN countries can enter visa-free for stays up to 15 days.
– All others must apply in advance at a Chinese embassy or consulate.

Required Documents

Standard Requirements

1. A passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages
2. A completed and signed China Visa Application (COVA) Form
3. One recent color photo (48 × 33 mm)
4. Proof of round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings—however, U.S. citizens do not need to provide hotel and flight proof for non-U.S. citizens
5. Any additional documents showing your itinerary or employment

Former Chinese Nationals

If you once held Chinese citizenship, you must supply your old Chinese passport, household registration (hukou), or official name-change papers when applying for an L Visa for the first time post-naturalization.

Minors of Chinese Origin Born Abroad

Children under 18 with Chinese ancestry need extra documents, such as their foreign birth certificate plus a notarized statement of Chinese descent and a copy of their parents’ Chinese ID or passport.

Invitation Letters as an Alternative

According to the invitation letter guidelines on TravelChinaGuide, an invitation letter from an individual or organization in China can replace hotel and flight reservations. It must include:
– The inviter’s full name, contact information, address, and ID or business license number
– Your travel dates and relationship to the inviter
– A clear statement of financial support (if applicable)

Special Notes for U.S. Citizens

American applicants aren’t required to show flight or hotel proof when applying for a tourist visa at U.S. consulates.

How to Apply for Your L Visa

Online COVA Form Tips

• Fill out the form accurately at the official consular services website.
• Provide comprehensive work and education history.
• Print the form and sign by hand—digital signatures won’t be accepted.

In-Person Submission

1. Gather all documents
2. Book an appointment at your nearest Chinese embassy or visa center
3. Submit materials, pay the fee, and wait for processing (usually 4–7 business days)

Visa Validity, Entries, and “Enter Before” Date

On your visa stamp you’ll see:
– “Enter Before”: the last date you may cross the border
– Number of entries granted (single, double, or multiple)
– Maximum stay per entry (commonly 30–60 days)

Plan your trip so you enter before that date and don’t overstay.

Recent Visa-Free Policies and Impact on the L Visa

China offers up to 15 days visa-free for citizens of 15 European countries, plus ASEAN members like Thailand and Indonesia. If you qualify, you can skip the L Visa altogether—just passport and onward ticket, no visa required.

Extensions and Proof of Legal Stay

If you wish to stay beyond your visa’s validity, apply for an extension at a local Public Security Bureau (PSB) at least seven days before expiry.
If you’re applying from a country other than your own, include proof of legal residence—such as a valid visa, green card, or residence permit.

Fresh Updates from January 2024

As of January 2024, Chinese consulates in the United States accept streamlined document sets for tourist visas: bank statements and personal cover letters are no longer mandatory in most cases.

Your Next Steps to China

Now that you know the L Visa requirements, special cases, online tips, and recent policy changes, you’re ready to start your application. Organize your documents, complete the COVA form, or check if visa-free entry applies to you—and soon you’ll be exploring China’s vibrant cities and ancient wonders.