Visit China
Chinese Tourist (L) Visa Requirements
This guide outlines the documents you need to prepare for a tourist visa application to China. The requirements vary depending on whether this is your first time visiting China.
General Requirements for All Applicants
Passport:
Your original passport must have at least six months of remaining validity.
It must have at least two blank visa pages.
Provide a photocopy of the passport’s data page and the photo page (if separate).
Note: For a 1-year multiple-entry visa, your passport must be valid for at least 15 months from the application date.
Visa Application Form and Photo:
Complete the online application form and print it out.
Sign the printed form.
Attach one recently-taken, color passport photo.
Photo Requirements: Bare-head, full face, against a light background. Size: 48mm x 33mm.
Bring the completed form to the Visa Centre.
Proof of Legal Status (if not a citizen):
If you are not applying in your country of citizenship, you must provide the original and a photocopy of your valid residence, employment, or student status certificates.
Note: Travelers from other countries staying briefly in Algeria must apply for a Chinese visa in their home country of citizenship. Exceptions are decided on a case-by-case basis by the Chinese Embassy.
Previous Chinese Visas/Passports (if applicable):
If you were a former Chinese citizen: Provide your last Chinese passport and a photocopy of its data page.
If you have a renewed passport with no previous Chinese visa: Provide a photocopy of your old passport’s data and photo pages, as well as the page with the previous Chinese visa. If your name has changed, you must also provide an official name change document.
If this is not your first time visiting China: Provide a copy of your previous Chinese visa.
Requirements for First-Time Visitors to China
In addition to the general requirements, you must provide:
Invitation Letter: An invitation letter from a tourist reception institute in China.
Hotel Reservation: Proof of a paid hotel reservation.
Itinerary: A detailed plan of your visit, including arrival/departure dates, places to be visited, and accommodation arrangements.
Proof of Employment: Documentation showing your employment status.
Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your trip.
No Criminal Record Certificate: A certificate proving you have no criminal history.
Requirements for Applicants Who Have Previously Visited China
In addition to the general requirements, you must provide:
Invitation Letter: An invitation letter from a tourist reception institute in China.
Hotel Reservation: Proof of a paid hotel reservation.
Itinerary: A detailed plan of your visit, including arrival/departure dates, places to be visited, and accommodation arrangements.
Proof of Financial Support: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your trip.
Additional Documents for Minors (Under 18)
Minors must provide the following documents in addition to the requirements for first-time or repeat visitors:
Birth Certificate: The child’s birth certificate.
Parent’s Passports: A copy of both parents’ passports.
Letter of Consent: A letter signed by both parents and certified by the Algerian government. This letter must state their consent for the child to apply for a Chinese visa, specify the desired visa validity and number of entries, and confirm that they will bear all the child’s expenses during their stay in China.
Proof of Financial Support: One of the parents must provide proof of financial support.
Note: Minors are not required to provide proof of employment or a no criminal record certificate.
Important Notes
Invitation Letter: A fax, photocopy, or computer printout of the invitation letter is acceptable, but consular officers may request the original. If the invitation is from an individual in China, they must also provide a photocopy of their Chinese ID.
Additional Documents: Consular officers have the right to request other supporting documents, supplementary materials, or an interview with the applicant.
Visa Decision: The consular officer has the final say on whether to issue the visa, as well as its validity, duration of stay, and number of entries.
Entry Refusal: Please be aware that obtaining a valid visa does not guarantee entry into mainland China. The final decision rests with China Customs in accordance with Chinese law and regulations.