How to Get a Visa to China 🇨🇳 for India 🇮🇳 Citizens
📅 Max stay: 60 days 🔄 Multiple entry 💰 Fee: Varies ⏱ Processing: 4 working days ✅ No fingerprints ✅ No bookings needed
⚠️ Visa-Free Transit policy (240-Hour Visa-Free Transit (过境免签)):India is not among the 55 countries eligible for China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy. Indian citizens transiting through China to a third country must obtain a Chinese visa in advance — the transit policy does not apply regardless of how short the stay.
✈️ Airside transit (no immigration clearance):Airside transit — remaining in the international zone without clearing Chinese immigration — does not require a Chinese visa. If your connecting flight stays airside, you can transit without any visa. Confirm with your airline whether your specific routing allows airside transfer at the relevant airport.
📄 Official source: China State Council — Visa-Free Transit Policy (Dec 2024) ↗
The essentials in 30 seconds: 🇨🇳 Yes — you need to apply for a visa. Visa type: Tourist Visa (L). Max stay: 60 days. Total time: 1–3 weeks from start to finish.
📅 Last verified: 2026-06-07
📋 Gather these documents first
Check each off as you gather it.
🪜 The steps
1 Apply online via COVA
Go to cova.mfa.gov.cn, create an account, and fill in your application. Upload your passport photo and supporting documents. Your application goes through an initial online review (3–5 days).
2 Wait for the submission notice
When COVA shows 'Passport to be submitted,' print the confirmation page — you'll need it at the consulate.
3 Visit the Chinese Embassy or Consulate
Bring your passport, printed confirmation, photo, and proof of address to the nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General. Walk-in submissions are available during office hours; check the embassy website for current appointment requirements.
4 Pay the fee
Pay the applicable visa fee at the counter. Accepted payment methods vary by location — check with your specific embassy or consulate in advance.
5 Collect your passport
Standard processing takes 4 working days. Pick up your passport (with the visa inside) in person, or arrange return courier if the consulate offers that service.
Processing time
Standard: 4 working days
Expedite: 2–3 working days (additional fee applies)
Fees
Visa fees vary by nationality and are set by bilateral agreements. Check the Chinese Embassy in India website for the current fee schedule.
Where to apply
Chinese Embassy
New Delhi
📍 50D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
📞 +91 11-2611-2345
Chinese Consulate-General
Mumbai
📍 7 Jinada Marg, Pedder Road, Mumbai 400026
📞 +91 22-2367-4985
Chinese Consulate-General
Kolkata
📍 23A, West Brabourne Road, Kolkata 700001
📞 +91 33-2229-0853
Frequently asked questions
Do I, as an Indian citizen, need a visa to visit China?
Yes. India is not on China's visa-free list. You must apply for a visa before your trip.
How long can I stay?
Up to 60 days per visit on a standard tourist (L) visa — more than enough for a 4-week trip.
Do I need hotel bookings or a flight itinerary to apply?
No — since 2024, tourist visa applications no longer require proof of hotel bookings, flight tickets, or a day-by-day itinerary.
Will I need to give fingerprints?
Fingerprinting has been waived for tourist (L) visas through the end of 2026.
Which consulate should I apply to?
Apply at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General based on your state of residence in India: New Delhi (Embassy), Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai (Consulate-Generals).
Can I get a multiple-entry visa?
You can request multiple-entry on your COVA application. The specific validity and number of entries granted depends on your application — check current practice with your consulate.
Can I use China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy as an Indian citizen?
No. India is not on the list of 55 countries eligible for China's visa-free transit. Indian citizens must obtain a Chinese visa before any entry that clears immigration, even for a short transit stay. The only exception is airside transit: if your connecting flight allows you to remain in the international zone without clearing Chinese immigration, no visa is required — confirm this option with your airline for your specific routing.