How to Get a Visa to China 🇨🇳 for Mexico 🇲🇽 Citizens
📅 Max stay: 30 days🔄 Multiple entry💰 Fee: Varies⏱ Processing: 4 working days✅ No fingerprints✅ No bookings needed
🔄 Just passing through?No visa needed — 240h
Mexico citizens ARE eligible for China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy — meaning if China is a stopover on the way to a third country, no visa is needed for up to 10 days. This is separate from the standard tourist visa required for direct visits.
ℹ️ 240 hours = 10 days. This is a transit-only allowance for travelers passing through China on the way to a third country — not for visiting China as your final destination.
Show requirements & details ▾Requirements:
Must be en route to a third country or region — not returning to Mexico. Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan count as separate destinations.
Hold a confirmed onward ticket departing China within 240 hours of arrival
Enter through one of 65 designated ports across 24 provinces
Complete the Digital Arrival Card at s.nia.gov.cn within 72 hours before landing
⏱ How the clock works:The 240-hour clock starts at 00:00 on the day after entry — not from landing time.
The essentials in 30 seconds: 🇨🇳 Yes — you need to apply for a visa. Visa type: Tourist Visa (L). Max stay: 30 days. Total time: 1–3 weeks from start to finish.
📅 Last verified: 2026-06-06
📋 Gather these documents first
Check each off as you gather it.
🪜 The steps
1Apply online via COVA▸
Go to cova.mfa.gov.cn, create an account, and complete your application. Upload your passport-style photo and required documents. Your application undergoes an initial online review (3–5 days).
2Wait for the submission notice▸
When COVA displays 'Passport to be submitted,' print the confirmation page — you'll need it when visiting the consulate.
3Submit at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate▸
Bring your passport, printed COVA confirmation, a recent passport-style photo, and proof of Mexico residence or address. Check the consulate website for current appointment or walk-in hours.
4Pay the fee▸
Pay the applicable fee at the counter. Accepted payment methods vary by location — confirm with your consulate in advance.
5Collect your passport▸
Standard processing takes 4 working days. Collect your passport in person, or arrange courier return if the consulate offers that service.
Processing time
Standard: 4 working days Expedite: 2–3 working days (additional fee applies)
Fees
Fees are set by bilateral agreement. Confirm with the Chinese Embassy in Mexico City.
Where to apply
Chinese Embassy — Mexico City
Frequently asked questions
Do Mexico citizens need a visa to visit China?+
Yes. Mexico is not on China's visa-free list. You must apply for a tourist (L) visa before traveling.
How long can I stay?+
Up to 30 days per visit on a standard tourist (L) visa.
Do I need hotel bookings or a flight itinerary?+
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.
Can I get a multiple-entry visa?+
You can request multiple-entry on your COVA application. The specific validity granted depends on your application and bilateral agreement — confirm with your consulate.
Can Mexico citizens use China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit policy?+
Yes — Mexico is on the list of 55 countries eligible for China's 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit. If you are transiting through China to a third country, you can stay up to 10 days without a visa. You must have a confirmed onward ticket, enter through one of 65 designated ports, and complete the Digital Arrival Card (s.nia.gov.cn) within 72 hours before arrival.
