Are you considering visiting, studying, working, or reuniting with family in China in 2025? Understanding the most recent documentation requirements is essential for a successful and seamless visa application, regardless of whether you are applying for a student visa, work permit, or tourist visa.
A comprehensive and well-organized guide that encompasses all the necessary documents for each visa category issued by China in 2025 is provided below.
Basic Documents Required for All China Visa Applicants for 2025:
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Complete and sign online. Print confirmation and full form. |
| Legal Stay Proof (Non-Canadians) | PR card or valid visa – original and photocopy. |
| Photograph | Taken in the last 6 months with stamp and date by a professional studio. |
| Visa Type Supporting Documents | Based on visa category (see next section). |
| Health Card / Driver’s License | Proof of residence in the consular district. |
| Passport | Valid for 6+ months with blank visa pages. Submit original + copy of data page. |
Check Also: New Zealand Inviting Student Visa Applications
Additional Documents Based on Visa Categories:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Required Additional Documents |
|---|---|---|
| M Visa | Commercial/business activities | Letter of invitation from Chinese company (on letterhead with official stamp). |
| L Visa | Tourism | Roundtrip flight and hotel bookings or invitation letter from host in China with Chinese ID/residence proof. |
| F Visa | Exchanges, study tours, non-degree programs | Invitation letter from a host in China. |
| S2 Visa | Short-term visit or private matters (≤90 days) | Invitation letter + inviter’s passport/residence permit + relationship proof. Documentation for private affairs may be required. |
| G Visa | Transit through China | Onward ticket with seat and date confirmation. |
| Q2 Visa | Short-term family visit (≤180 days) | Invitation letter from relative + proof of relationship + Chinese ID/residence permit copy. |
| R Visa | High-level or urgently needed talents | Certificate or approval from Chinese authorities confirming skill qualification. |
| X1 Visa | Study for >180 days | Admission Letter + JW201/JW202 Form or DQ Confirmation. |
| Z Visa | Employment in China | Notification Letter of Work Permit or Foreigner’s Work Permit + invitation letter from employer. |
| J1 Visa | Resident foreign journalists | Visa Notification Letter + letter from media employer. |
| Q1 Visa | Long-term family reunion (>180 days) | Invitation letter + proof of relationship + inviter’s Chinese ID or residence permit. |
| X2 Visa | Short-term study (≤180 days) | Admission Letter + DQ Confirmation. |
| C Visa | Crew or transport personnel | Crew member ID or employer letter for transport activity. |
| S1 Visa | Visit relatives (foreigners in China >90 days) | Invitation letter + inviter’s passport/residence permit + relationship proof. |
| J2 Visa | Short-term journalists | Same as J1 but for ≤180 days. |
Special Categories and Additional Conditions:
Chinese Descent (One Parent Was or Was Chinese) as of 2025:
| Applicant Type | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| Adult (16+, born outside China) | C* Parent’s docs + D* Chinese visa history |
| Adult (born in China) | E* Last original Chinese passport |
| Minor (under 16, born outside China) | B* Declaration + C* Parent’s docs + D* Visa records |
| Minor (born in China) | B* Declaration + E* Last Chinese passport |
In accordance with the format guidelines, all documents must be photocopied on the same page.
Document Samples and Format Codes for China Visa Applications:
| Code | Document Type | Details |
|---|---|---|
| A* | Invitation Letter | Must include host’s ID, address, relationship, and visitor details. Calgary template preferred. |
| B* | Declaration/Consent Form | Needed for minors; includes parental consent. |
| C* | Parents’ Docs | Passport + proof of Canadian residency at applicant’s birth (PR card, citizenship proof, etc.). |
| D* | Previous China Visa Records | Old visa and corresponding passport data page. |
| E* | Original Chinese Passport | Required when applicant was once a Chinese national. |
China Visas Application Process: Step-by-Step for 2025
- Create an Online Account:
- Complete and sign your visa application online by visiting the China Visa Application Service Center website.
- Prepare Physical Documents:
- Print the application, passport copy, photos, and all supporting documents in accordance with the type of visa you are applying for.
- Visit the Visa Center (Calgary jurisdiction):
- Please submit your application in person and submit your fingerprints, unless you are exempt (under 14, over 70, etc.).
- Pay Visa Fee:
- Cash and credit cards are not accepted; only debit cards are accepted.
- The fee discount of 75% is valid until December 31, 2025.
- Optional: Return by Mail:
- A maximum of four applicants may be submitted per envelope to the same address.
- Processing Time:
- Regular: 4 business days
- Express: 3 business days (pick-up only)
Frequently Asked Questions:
What documents are required for China visa application?
A photocopy of the bio data page, an original passport with a minimum of six months of remaining validity, and empty visa pages. A recently-taken color passport photo (bare-head, entire face) against a light background, together with a completed Visa Application Form.
Is a COVID-19 test still required for visa application?
No, the majority of COVID-19-related requirements have been eliminated. However, this may be subject to change in accordance with the most recent health policies. Therefore, it is essential to consult the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Has the processing time changed?
Express (2–3 days) and expedite (same-day) services may be available at a surcharge, while standard processing takes 4–7 working days.
