China Visa Guide
List of Visa-On-Arrival Cities & Document Checklist
Navigating China’s visa policies as a foreign traveler can feel daunting, but with the right information, it becomes straightforward. Here’s your essential guide to visa-on-arrival (VOA) cities in China and the documents you’ll need for a smooth entry in 2025.
What is a Visa-On-Arrival in China?
A visa-on-arrival allows eligible travelers to apply for a short-term visa directly at designated ports of entry (e.g., airports, border crossings) without pre-approval. This option is ideal for spontaneous trips or emergencies, but it’s crucial to meet specific requirements and avoid common pitfalls.
Key Visa-On-Arrival Cities in 2025
China’s visa-on-arrival policy is primarily limited to special economic zones (SEZs) and select scenarios. Here are the current eligible cities and their details:
Shenzhen (5-Day SEZ Visa)
- Validity: 5 days (from the second day of entry)
- Entry Points: Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Luohu/Futian Port (via Hong Kong)
- Eligibility: Most nationalities except 28 restricted countries(e.g., Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan) .
- Activities: Travel within Shenzhen’s administrative region only.
Zhuhai (3-Day SEZ Visa)
- Validity: 3 days
- Entry Points: Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, Gongbei Port (via Macau)
- Eligibility: Same as Shenzhen, excluding restricted nationalities.
- Activities: Restricted to Zhuhai.
Xiamen (5-Day SEZ Visa)
- Validity: 5 days
- Entry Points: Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport, Xiamen Port
- Eligibility: Same as above.
- Activities: Explore Xiamen and nearby islands like Gulangyu.
Tourist Group Visas
- Validity:144 hours (6 days)
- Eligibility: Travelers from ASEAN countriesin groups of 2+ people, organized by a Chinese travel agency.
- Entry Points: Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (for tours covering Guangxi Province) .
Who Can Apply for Visa-On-Arrival?
Nationality
Most travelers are eligible, but 28 countries are excluded for SEZ visas (see full list in National Immigration Administration of China: https://www.nia.gov.cn ).
Purpose of Visit
Tourism or short-term business (SEZ visas); group tourism (144-hour visas).
Travel Route
SEZ visas require entry via Hong Kong or Macau (except Xiamen, which allows direct international flights).
Document Checklist for Visa-On-Arrival
- Must have at least 6 months validityand blank pages.
- Ensure your passport is not from a restricted country (checkNational Immigration Administration of China: https://www.nia.gov.cn).
- Available at the borderor online (print and complete in advance for faster processing).
- Fill in personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit.
One 2-inch (5cm x 5cm) white-background photo(no headwear, clear facial features).
Hotel reservation confirmation or invitation letter from a Chinese host.
Confirmed flight/train/bus ticket showing departure from China within the visa validity period.
Cash in Chinese Yuan (CNY)or major currencies (e.g., USD, EUR). Fees vary by city:
- Shenzhen/Xiamen: ~¥160 (5-day visa) .
- Zhuhai: ~¥100 (3-day visa).
- Check current rates at the port of entry.
- Group Tours: Travel agency confirmation and itinerary.
- Business Travel: Invitation letter from a Chinese company (if applicable).
Step-by-Step Application Process
1.Arrive at a Designated Port
For SEZ visas, enter via Hong Kong/Macau (except Xiamen).
For group visas, arrive at Guilin Airport.
2.Locate the Visa-On-Arrival Counter
Signs in English and Chinese will direct you.
3.Submit Documents
Hand over your passport, application form, photo, and supporting documents.
4.Pay the Fee
Shenzhen and Hainan ports accept visa fees via Alipay or WeChat Pay (some ports still require cash—recommend carrying small RMB notes).
5.Wait for Processing
Allow 30–60 minutes for approval.
6.Receive Your Visa
The visa will be stamped in your passport, specifying the duration and allowed activities.
Important Notes & Tips
Transit Visa Exemptions
- 240-Hour Transit Visa: Citizens of 54 countries (e.g., US, UK, Canada) can stay up to 10 days without a visaif traveling through 24 provinces (including Guilin) .
- 72/144-Hour Transit: Apply if you’re passing through China en route to a third country.
Health Requirements
- No COVID-19 Testing/Vaccination: As of 2025, China does not require health declarations or vaccination proof for most travelers .
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Restricted Nationalities: Double-check if your country is excluded (e.g., Indian, Pakistani citizens cannot apply for SEZ visas) .
- Travel Route: SEZ visas require entry via Hong Kong/Macau—plan your itinerary accordingly.
Alternative Visa Options
- E-Visa: Apply online for faster processing (available for some nationalities).
- Regular Visa: Recommended for stays longer than 30 days or for non-tourist purposes.
2025 New Convenience Measures
Online Pre-Filling
Some ports (e.g., Xiamen Airport) support the COVA system for pre-filling visa application forms, reducing on-site queuing.
UnionPay/Mobile Payment Options
Shenzhen and Hainan ports accept visa fees via Alipay or WeChat Pay (some ports still require cash—recommend carrying small RMB notes).
Emergency Channels
Travelers entering for urgent medical or business reasons can use priority processing with proof of hospital certification or a company urgency letter.
Ready to Enjoy Your China Journey?
China’s visa-on-arrival system offers flexibility for short-term travelers, but thorough preparation is key. By familiarizing yourself with the eligible cities, required documents, and application steps，you can breeze through immigration and focus on exploring China’s rich culture and landscapes. Always verify the latest policies before your trip to ensure a seamless experience!
Official Resources for Updates
National Immigration Administration of China: https://www.nia.gov.cn
China Visa Application Service Center: https://visaforchina.org