China Crew Visa (C Visa)
The China Crew Visa, officially known as the C Visa, is issued to foreign crew members of international transportation, including aircraft, trains, and ships, as well as motor vehicle drivers engaged in cross-border transport activities. It also covers accompanying family members of ship crew members in certain circumstances. The C Visa is a specialised category intended for professional transport personnel operating international routes into or through China, rather than for general travel or tourism purposes. Applications are generally supported by documentation from the applicant’s employer or transport operator confirming their role and cross-border duties. Final approval rests solely with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General handling the application.
Eligibility
To apply for a China Crew Visa, applicants generally must:
- Be a foreign crew member of an aircraft, train, or ship engaged in international transportation to or through China
- Or be a motor vehicle driver engaged in cross-border transport activities into China
- Or be an accompanying family member of a qualifying ship crew member, where applicable
- Hold official documentation from their employer or transport operator confirming their role, employment, and cross-border assignment
- Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application, with at least 2 blank visa pages
- Meet standard health and character requirements
Specific supporting documents can vary depending on the type of transportation involved (air, rail, sea, or road) and the applicant’s role, so confirming exact requirements with the relevant Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General is recommended.
Government Visa Fees
| Fee Component | Approximate Cost (Indian Passport Holders) |
| Single-entry C Visa | Approximately ₹2,900 |
| Double-entry C Visa | Approximately ₹4,400 |
| CVASC service fee | Approximately ₹1,973 (regular) / ₹2,908 (express) |
| Express processing surcharge | Approximately ₹1,800 |
*The Chinese Embassy in India has extended reduced visa fees for Indian passport holders. Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is declined. Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances — always confirm exact China Visa Fees on the official Chinese Embassy in India website or the CVASC portal.
China Visa Processing Time
China Visa Processing Time for the C Visa is generally 4 to 6 working days for standard processing, with express service available in 2 to 4 working days for an additional fee where offered. Because this visa category requires specific employer or transport-operator documentation confirming the applicant’s crew role and cross-border assignment, incomplete or unclear supporting paperwork is a common cause of delays. Applicants are advised to coordinate closely with their employer or transport operator to ensure all required documents are accurate and complete, and to apply well ahead of their intended travel or assignment date.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a China Crew Visa (C Visa) requires accurate documentation, including a valid passport, crew member identification, an official letter from the airline or transport operator, and compliance with the latest Chinese visa requirements. Shivansh Consultants provides personalized guidance and end-to-end assistance with preparing your visa application, reviewing all supporting documents, and ensuring your paperwork meets the latest Embassy requirements. Our experienced visa consultants carefully verify every detail to help minimize delays and improve your chances of visa approval. With a transparent process and dedicated support, we assist you throughout your China Crew Visa (C Visa) journey.