Thinking of visiting, studying, working, or reuniting with family in China in 2025? Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa, student visa, or work permit, understanding the updated documentation requirements is crucial to a smooth and successful visa application.
Here’s a detailed and organized guide covering all the documents you’ll need for every visa category issued by China in 2025.
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. |
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 is 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 |
All documents must be photocopied on the same page (as per format guidelines).
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
➤ Fill and sign your visa application online via the China Visa Application Service Center website. -
Prepare Physical Documents
➤ Print the application, passport copy, photos, and all supporting documents per your visa type. -
Visit the Visa Center (Calgary jurisdiction)
➤ Submit application in person and provide fingerprints unless exempt (under 14, over 70, etc.). -
Pay Visa Fee
➤ Only debit cards accepted (no cash or credit).
➤ 75% fee discount applies till December 31, 2025. -
Optional: Return by Mail
➤ Max 4 applicants per envelope to the same address. -
Processing Time
➤ Regular: 4 business days
➤ Express: 3 business days (pick-up only)
References
- https://www.visaforchina.cn/YYC3_EN/qianzhengyewu/jichuzhishi/changjianwenti/336247379642683392.html
- http://gb.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/visa/qzxz/201303/t20130315_3383966.htm
- https://www.visaforchina.cn/KHI3_EN/tongzhigonggao/333483543298707456.html
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/China.html.