Visa Overview
The China Tourist Visa, officially known as the L Visa, is issued to foreign nationals who intend to visit China for sightseeing, holidays, or leisure travel. It is one of the most commonly issued Chinese visa categories and is generally available as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa, with a typical stay of 30 to 60 days per visit, depending on the specific visa granted. China does not offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa facilities to Indian passport holders, so the L Visa must be obtained in advance through a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) before travel. Applications are assessed by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, and final approval rests solely with Chinese consular authorities.
Eligibility
To apply for a China Tourist Visa, applicants generally must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application, with at least 2 blank visa pages
- Provide evidence of a genuine tourism itinerary, including confirmed round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations
- Alternatively, provide an invitation letter from a host or inviting entity in China, if applicable
- Demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover the trip
- Show strong ties to India, such as employment, property, or family, to support intent to return
- Meet standard character requirements and have no history of visa violations in China
Applicants must submit their application in person at the CVASC serving their jurisdiction (New Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata for Indian applicants), as mailed or online-only applications are not accepted.
Government Visa Fees
| Fee Component | Approximate Cost (Indian Passport Holders) |
| Single-entry L Visa | Approximately ₹2,900 |
| Double-entry L Visa | Approximately ₹4,400 |
| Multiple-entry (6 months) | Approximately ₹5,900 |
| Multiple-entry (1 year or longer) | Approximately ₹8,800 |
| 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, and Chinese visas cannot be renewed — only extended within China or reapplied for from India. 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 L Visa is generally 4 to 6 working days for standard processing, with passport collection typically available on the 6th working day for Indian applicants. Express service is available in 2 to 4 working days for an additional fee, and urgent service may be considered in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the consular officer. Processing times exclude weekends and public holidays in both China and India, and can extend during peak periods such as the Chinese Spring Festival. Applicants are advised to apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before their intended travel date to allow for processing and any potential requests for additional documents.
Required Documents Checklist
Step-by-Step Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying for a China Tourist Visa requires careful preparation of your travel documents, passport, financial proof, confirmed accommodation, and travel itinerary in accordance 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 complies with 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 Tourist Visa journey.