China Visa RequirementsFor India passport holders
Indian passport holders require a visa to visit China. The Chinese visa application involves a detailed process including an in-person appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). China has introduced a 144-hour transit visa-free policy at select ports that may benefit some Indian travelers.
India passport holders require a visa to enter China.
Apply at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in India, located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai. The fee for a single-entry tourist visa is approximately $140 USD. Required documents include a valid passport (6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages), completed application form, recent color photo on white background, confirmed return ticket, hotel bookings, bank statements for last 3 months, and itinerary. Biometrics (fingerprints) are collected during the appointment. Processing takes 4-5 business days for regular service.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
India to China: What You Need to Know
China is a major destination for Indian tourists, business travelers, and students. Indian nationals must apply for a tourist visa (L visa) or business visa (M visa) before travel. China has been expanding its visa-free access program, but Indian passport holders currently do not qualify for regular visa-free entry. However, some Indian travelers can use the 72-hour or 144-hour transit visa-free facility at designated airports when transiting through China.
Practical Tips
Book appointments at the CVASC well in advance as slots fill up quickly, especially in Delhi and Mumbai. Ensure your hotel bookings cover every night of your stay. China requires you to stay at registered accommodation. VPN access to foreign websites like Google and WhatsApp is restricted in China, so set up a reliable VPN before departure. Carry some Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB) cash as WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate payments and can be difficult to set up for foreign nationals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Indians apply for a China tourist visa?
Indian nationals apply at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai. You must book an appointment online, appear in person for biometrics, and submit your passport, photos, itinerary, hotel bookings, and bank statements. The fee is approximately $140 USD.
Can Indians use the 144-hour transit visa-free policy in China?
Yes, Indian passport holders transiting through certain Chinese cities can stay for up to 144 hours (6 days) visa-free under the transit policy, provided they have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country. Eligible ports include Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou Baiyun, and others. This policy does not apply to those whose final destination is China.
How long does a China visa take to process for Indians?
Standard processing takes 4-5 business days at CVASC. Express (2-3 days) and rush (1 day) services are available at higher fees. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to be safe.
Are there any internet restrictions Indians should know about in China?
Yes. China blocks many foreign websites and apps including Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Download and set up a reliable VPN before entering China, as VPN apps are also blocked inside the country.