The China tourist visa, or L visa, is the standard visa for travelers visiting China for sightseeing. Here's your complete guide to getting it.
The L visa is issued to foreigners visiting China for tourism — sightseeing, family visits, or short stays. It's the visa used by the vast majority of travelers.
Apply at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country, through their designated visa service centers, or with a visa agency. The process involves an online form and an appointment.
You'll need a valid passport (with six months' validity), the completed application form, a recent photo, and supporting documents — typically round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations.
L visas are usually valid for a single or multiple entries within a period, with stays of 30-60 days per entry. Longer stays are possible with specific applications.
Processing typically takes 4-7 working days. Express service is available at extra cost. Apply well in advance of your travel.
Check the visa-free and transit options for your nationality — many travelers now qualify for visa-free entry or transit stays, which can save time and cost.