Traveling to China should be a fun and exciting experience, obtaining a China Tourist Visa is a pretty straightforward process for U.S. Passport holders if you follow the required steps. For U.S. citizens planning to visit China multiple times over several years, obtaining a 10-Year L (Tourism) Visa is the best option. This guide will walk you through the process of acquiring this visa, from understanding the requirements to submitting your application and tips for a smooth approval.
Table of Contents
1. About the 10-Year L China Tourist Visa
The 10-Year L Visa is a multiple-entry tourist visa issued to U.S. passport holders, allowing them to visit China for tourism purposes. Key features include:
- Validity: 10 years (enter 120 months on the form)
- Duration per Stay: Up to 60 days per visit (subject to approval)
- Entries: Multiple entries allowed
- Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, family visits, and cultural exchanges
- Processing Time: Standard processing takes 3–4 business days
- Cost: $140 for standard processing time and $165 for an express process (2 – 3 days) for U.S Passport holders
This visa is perfect for frequent travelers who plan to visit China multiple times over the next decade without the hassle of reapplying for a visa each time.
2. Step-by-Step Application Process – China Tourist Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents, also visit the official consulate list of requirements for updates:
- Valid U.S. Passport – print a copy of the bio page and you will need to submit your passport at the application desk
- Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date.
- Must have at least one blank clean visa page – My application was once rejected because my passport pages were oil-stained which made it impossible for the visa to be added on
- Completed China Visa Application Form
- Visit the official website of China Online Visa Application (COVA) to fill out and print the visa form.
- After answering all the form questions, make sure to double-check your responses. Once submitted, forms can not be edited. After submission, save the PDF copy of your application form and print it out. You need to sign and date the form with a pen.
- Recent Passport-Size Photo – the website will reject the photo if it does not meet the requirements below
- A color photo taken within the last six months.
- White background, no head coverings (unless for religious purposes).
- Previous Chinese Visas (if applicable)
- If you’ve previously been issued a Chinese visa, print a copy of the old visa page.
- A proof of residence (copy of driver’s license, utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
Read: Visa and Passport Photo Requirements
Step 2: Submit Your China Tourist Visa Application at Local Consulate
As of recent updates, in-person or third-party submissions are required. Chinese embassies do not accept mailed-in visa applications. I applied in person, the embassy in New York opens at 9 am and I was on a queue by 8:45 am. There were about 10 of us on the line and I got into the embassy at 8:58 am. I was done with the application process by 9:02 am; the processing desks started working exactly at 9 am.
Submission Methods:
- In-Person at the Chinese Embassy/Consulate
- Through an Authorized Visa Service Center (e.g., Entriva, VisaHQ, or other visa agencies)
Appointment Required: Some consulates require an appointment, so check ahead.
Visa Fee:
- $140 for U.S. citizens (regardless of visa type)
- Payment Method: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, money orders, and certified checks. Cash is not accepted.
Step 3: Processing Time
Standard processing time is 3–4 business days, but expedited options are available:
- Express Service: 2–3 business days ($165).
- Rush Service: Same-day or next-day pickup (additional fee applies, subject to approval, and rarely approved).
Step 4: Collect Your Visa
You will be given a slip with the date to pick up your documents, you may show up on the exact date or after. You need the slip to retrieve your travel documents. Collecting your visa is typically a less than 15-minute long process. Make sure to check all visa details carefully to ensure accuracy.
Key Information to Verify:
- Name spelling
- Passport number
- Visa validity
- Entry permissions (multiple entries)
- Duration per stay (usually up to 60 days)
3. Important Tips for a Successful Application
1. Apply Early
- Apply at least one month before your intended travel date.
- Avoid last-minute applications to allow time for unforeseen delays.
2. Be Honest in Your Application
- False information may lead to visa denial or future travel restrictions.
3. Keep Copies of All Documents
- Having a backup copy of your application, passport, and visa can be useful in case of loss or additional requests.
4. Renew Your Passport Early If Needed
- Since the 10-Year Visa is tied to your passport, if you renew your passport before the visa expires, you must travel with both old and new passports.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use the 10-Year L Visa for Business Purposes?
No, the L Visa is strictly for tourism. If you plan to conduct business, apply for an M Visa (Business Visa).
2. What Happens If My Visa Application Is Denied?
- If denied, the Consulate will typically provide a reason.
- Review your application for errors and reapply with additional supporting documents.
3. Can I Extend My Stay in China?
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at a Public Security Bureau (PSB) Immigration Office in China at least 7 days before your visa expires, it may be extended for up to 30 additional days.
4. Is It Possible to Convert My Tourist Visa to a Work Visa in China?
Yes, the process of changing from an L Visa to a Z (Work) Visa varies across different cities and provinces. Check with the local Immigration Department of the Public Security Bureau for the relevant rules and regulations on visa conversion.
5. Do Children Qualify for a 10-Year Visa?
Yes, children holding a U.S. passport can apply for a 10-Year Visa.
Obtaining a 10-Year L (Tourism) Visa for China with a U.S. passport is a straightforward process if you follow the required steps and prepare your documents properly. This visa provides great flexibility for frequent travelers and ensures hassle-free visits to China for the next decade. By applying early, ensuring accuracy in your documents, and utilizing expedited options if needed, you can secure your visa smoothly and focus on planning your adventure in China!
Notes:
- You no longer need to show evidence of booked flights or lodging
- Make sure you have everything you need printed before visiting the embassy, some offer paid printing services, but they do not always work.
Safe travels and enjoy your journey to China!
