If you’re a UAE resident planning to visit China for tourism or to see family, follow these steps for a smooth visa application process. Below, you’ll find the essential details to help you through.
1. Visa Options for Tourists and Visitors
- Tourist Visa (L Visa): Designed for those who want to explore China’s scenic spots, historical landmarks, or other leisure activities.
- Family Visit Visa (Q Visa): This option is for individuals visiting their family members who are Chinese citizens or permanent residents. For long-term stays, you’ll need a Q1 visa; for short visits (up to 180 days), a Q2 visa will suffice.
2. Application Procedure
- Step 1: Online Application
Begin by filling out the visa application form on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website. Ensure all personal and travel details are accurate to avoid delays or complications. - Step 2: Collect Supporting Documents
Gather all necessary documents (listed below). Double-check that everything is in order and up to date before proceeding with the application. - Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit the application form and documents in person at the CVASC in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. You may also appoint an authorized representative to submit on your behalf. - Step 4: Pay Visa Fees
The applicable fees can be paid at the CVASC office or through certain approved service providers. Ensure you retain a receipt for proof of payment.
3. Required Documents
- Passport: Ensure it’s valid for a minimum of six months and has two blank pages for visa stamps.
- UAE Residence Visa: This must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your intended return date.
- Completed Application Form: Accurately filled and signed.
- Passport Photos: Two recent photos with a white background, meeting the specified dimensions.
- Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings and confirmed hotel reservations or an invitation letter from the family member you plan to visit.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements covering the last six months, showing sufficient funds to cover your stay.
- Invitation Letter (For Family Visits): If applying for a Q visa, you’ll need an invitation letter from your family member along with documents proving your relationship, such as a birth or marriage certificate.
4. Visa Fees
- Tourist/Family Visit Visa Fees:
- Single-entry visa: AED 350-600
- Multiple-entry visa (6 months to 1 year): AED 600-800
Fees may vary slightly depending on the processing speed you choose (standard or expedited).
5. Processing Time
- Standard Processing: Generally takes 4 to 7 working days.
- Expedited Processing: Available for an extra fee, reducing processing time to 2-3 working days.
6. Important Tips
- Travel Insurance: Though not mandatory, travel insurance that includes medical coverage is strongly recommended for your trip to China.
- Visa Validity: Tourist visas usually permit stays of 30 to 60 days per entry, depending on whether the visa is for single or multiple entries.
- Submit Documents Carefully: To avoid delays, ensure that all documentation is correctly filled out and submitted as per the visa type.
For further assistance or to simplify the process, you can also use the services of a trusted visa agency that operates in the UAE