Meticulous planning is required when organizing a trip to China, and in this process securing your visa is a crucial part. At first, sorting out your visa documents can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Below is our casual and straightforward guide to help you collect everything you need beforehand, for a smooth and successful Chinese visa application.
Understanding the Basics
There are different types of visas available. Whether you are traveling to China for business, tourism, or a family visit, the specific documents you need will be determined by the visa type you are applying for. There’s an option for a 5-year multi-entry visa for Australians, starting from June 21, 2024. This is significant for frequent travelers!
The Essential Documents
- Passport
Your passport is the most important part of your visa application. It is recommended to have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of the entry into China. It should have blank pages that are enough for the visa and entry/exit stamps.
- Visa Application Form
First of all, go to COVA’s website in order to fill out the visa application form online. Then print out the completed form and sign it. Double check for any mishaps or left out sections to make sure all the details are sufficiently provided to avoid delaying your application.
- Photo Requirements
You must include a recent, color passport photo with your visa application. Specific requirements should be met when choosing the photo like, it should be 48mm x 33mm in size, with your head’s width between 15mm to 22mm and height between 28mm to 33mm. The background must be white in color or close to white. Try not to wear glasses that cause glare and put on an expression that is neutral.
- Invitation Letter
If you are applying for a business visa (M), then you are supposed to include an invitation letter from the Chinese company you are visiting. The letter should contain the following:
- Your full name, gender, and date of birth.
- Purpose of the visit, arrival and departure dates, and places to be visited.
- Relationship between you and the entity or individual inviting you.
- Details about who will cover your expenses.
Sometimes the original might be requested but the invitation letter can be a fax, photocopy, or printout as well.
- Proof of Kinship (for family visits)
You will need to provide proof of kinship for family visit visas, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or a notarized certification of kinship. This is for the verification of your relationship with the family member you are visiting in China.
Additional Documents
- Travel Itinerary
Especially for tourist (L) visas, having a detailed travel itinerary can be very helpful. Your planned activities, places you will visit, and accommodations should be outlined in this document.
- Financial Proof
You might sometimes be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay in China. Bank statements or a letter from your employer are good documents to serve this purpose.
- Previous Chinese Visas
Include copies of your previous visas to China, if you have visited China before. The consular officer gets a complete picture of your travel history thanks to this.
How to Submit Your Application
In Person
Your application can be submitted in person at one of the Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVAS) in Australia. They are located in major cities like Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. The following are the addresses and contact details for each center:
- Canberra: Suite 201, level 2, Canberra House, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra, ACT 2600.
- Sydney: Level 1, 140 William Street, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011.
- Melbourne: Ground Floor, 570 ST., Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004.
- Perth: Ground Floor, 256 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000.
- Brisbane: Part Level 4, 140 Ann Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000.
- Adelaide: Suite 1.2, Level 1, 33 King William Street, Adelaide, SA 5000.
By Mail
If you prefer mailing your application to the relevant CVAS. You must make sure that all the necessary documents are included like, your original passport, and a fully paid self-addressed return envelope. Only Express POST and Registered POST from Australia Post are accepted. To monitor your application’s progress, keep your tracking number handy.
Processing Time and Fees
It generally takes about four working days, but it is important to remember that processing times vary. For an additional fee, express and rush services are available, but for mailed applications these options aren’t available. For a complete list of fees and payment methods, check the CVAS website.
Tips for a Smooth Application
Double-Check Everything
Make sure to review all your documents thoroughly before submission because mistakes can cause delays. Your application form should be filled out correctly, your photo must meet the requirements, and you should have included all necessary supporting documents.
Use Professional Services
Consider using a professional visa service like Visa Bridge if you’re not sure about any part of the process. We can guide you through the process at each step, making sure your application is complete and accurate.
Prepare for an Interview
You might be asked to appear for an interview or provide additional documents in some cases. You must be prepared for such a possibility to be able to respond promptly to any requests from the consulate.
Reach Out to Your Local Chinese Visa Experts
Are you about to start working on your Chinese visa application? Visit Visa Bridge for expert guidance and support. We have a team of professionals that will help you go through the entire process with ease and stress-free. Contact us today to get started and make your travel dreams a reality!
