If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom, you may want to apply for Chinese visa. The Chinese visa is the most important kind you need when you go to China. Different from other visas, it allows you to enter China and stay here for up to three months.

The Chinese visa application process can seem a bit confusing. There are two kinds, the long-term visa and the simple one. This article will explain how to apply for each, how much time is needed, steps for the application and more!

Chinese Visa, also known as a China visa is required for all foreign citizens, who intend to travel to China for either business or tourism. The United Kingdom is one of the most visited countries by tourists potentially looking to visit China. Therefore, it is advisable that all travelers from the UK wishing to visit China first obtain their Visa.

Entry requirements

This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in China set and enforce entry rules. For further information contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to. You should also consider checking with your transport provider or travel company to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)

Entry and transit

You will need a valid visa to enter China. The Chinese Visa Application Centres in London, Manchester and Edinburgh are operating but with limited opening hours. The Application Centre in Belfast remains closed.

The Chinese authorities have suspended all direct flights from the UK. This measure will be subject to review but no date has been announced. Restrictions on travel to China from other countries, and the necessary requirements, may be different. British nationals travelling to China from a third country should follow the directions on the website of the local Chinese Embassy or consulate for requirements from that country.

On 4 November 2020 the Chinese Embassy in the UK announced the temporary suspension of entry into China by non-Chinese nationals in the UK holding Chinese visas or residence permits valid at the time of the announcement. Entry by holders of diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas would not be affected. Foreign nationals visiting China for emergencies can still apply for visas at Chinese Embassies or Consulates and entry by non-Chinese nationals in the UK with visas issued after 3 November 2020 will not be affected.

If you’re issued a visa to travel from the UK to China in these circumstances you will need to submit a Health Declaration Form to your nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the UK before you travel, who will need to certify your form and return it to you via email.

More details, including the process for submitting forms for those still eligible, can be found on the Chinese Embassy website.

In order to receive a Health Declaration Form from the Chinese Embassy you must provide evidence of a negative nucleic acid test seven days before you travel, followed by a negative nucleic acid and an IgM antibody test