Planning a trip to China, but don’t know where to start? You will need a visa whether it’s for business, leisure, or visiting family. Applying for a Chinese visa as an Australian Citizen can seem extremely complicated on the surface, but it is actually quite straightforward as long as you know what to do. In this blog we will go through the process of a Chinese visa application in a step-by-step guide to help you overcome any hurdles in the way.
Where to Apply?
The first thing that you need is to know where to submit your application. From ordinary passport holders, the visa applications are generally not accepted directly by the Chinese Embassy and Consulate Generals in Australia. Rather, you will be required to apply through one of the Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVAS) located in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, or Adelaide.
Locations of CVAS
Each one of these Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVAS) is there to serve a specific list of regions. Which is why you must make sure to apply to the center that corresponds to your state or territory.
- 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
How to Apply?
Step 1: Fill Out the Application Form Online
Fill out the visa application form, which you can get from the Chinese Visa Application Service center website. After you fill it out, print the full form—It is usually seven pages long—and make sure to sign it.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
In order to complete your application, you will need a few key documents:
- Original Passport: Your passport must have at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages as well. Along with that, you should also include a photocopy of the passport’s data page.
- Visa Application Form: The one you just filled out and printed.
- Recent Photo: You should include a passport-sized color photo, recently taken within the last six months.
- Supporting Documents: This could include an invitation letter, proof of kinship, or travel itinerary, depending on your situation.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You have two options when submitting your application: in-person or by mail.
In Person:
As of December 18, 2023, there is going to be no need for an online appointment. Just Head over to the relevant CVAS during their business hours.
By Mail:
If you prefer to mail your application, send it to the appropriate CVAS. Use Express POST or Registered POST from Australia Post. Remember, you must make sure to include a fully paid and self-addressed return envelope and keep a track of your parcel with the help of a tracking number.
Important Photo Requirements
The following are the specific requirements that your photo must meet:
- Color Photo: Taken within the last six months.
- Size: 48mm x 33mm.
- Appearance: A clear background with a neutral facial expression and no hats (unless for religious reasons).
To avoid any delays, you must make sure your photo meets these criteria.
Processing Time
In normal cases, it takes about four working days for the processing of a visa application. But if you are in a hurry you can try out the next working day rush services or the third working day express service. Remember, these services usually come with additional fees and might not always be available.
And it usually takes around 10 working days for mail applications. Note that rush service is not available for mail applications.
Visa Fees
Visa fees can vary depending on specific situations, which is why it is best to keep yourself informed through the Chinese Visa Application Center website for the most up-to-date information. You’ll find details about the exact fees for your visa type and payment methods there.
5-Year Multi-Entry Visas
From June 21, 2024, onwards, Australian citizens can apply for a 5-year multi-entry visa for business, tourism, or family visits. This is a very good option if you are planning multiple trips to China over the next few years. It has the same process; you just have to make sure that it is specified that you’re applying for the 5-year multi-entry visa on your application form.
Key Tips for a Smooth Application
Make sure to follow these tips, so any unnecessary inconveniences can be avoided:
- Double-Check Everything: Confirm that all the information on your application form and documents exactly matches your passport details.
- Complete All Fields: If something doesn’t apply to you, explain why. Don’t leave any sections blank.
- Verify Your Documents: Make sure all the necessary documents are available to you before submitting your application.
Final Checks
Double-check everything, before submitting your application. All the information must be accurate, documents must be complete, and your photo must meet the required specifications to avoid any delays or issues with your application.
Ready to go through the process of your Chinese visa application? Let us, at Visa Bridge, be your partners. We ensure a hassle-free process from start to finish thanks to our experienced team at your service. Reach out to us today for professional guidance and personalized support. Your adventure to China starts here!
