U.S. citizens applying for a Chinese tourist visa need to meet the following requirements:
Basic Requirements
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and have at least two blank visa pages.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out the form accurately and completely on the China Online Visa Application (COVA) website.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: Provide a recent, passport-sized photo meeting specific requirements.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other financial documents showing sufficient funds for your trip.
- Proof of Travel Itinerary: Round-trip flight reservations and hotel bookings (though no longer mandatory, it’s still recommended).
- Proof of Residence: For applicants in the U.S., provide a copy of a driver’s license, utility bill, or bank statement showing your current address.
Additional Considerations
- Biometric Data Collection: Applicants aged between 14 and 70 may need to provide fingerprints.
- Visa Fees: The fee for U.S. citizens is $140 for single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry visas.
- Processing Times: Regular service typically takes 4 business days, express service 2-3 business days, and rush service 1 business day for extreme emergencies.
By carefully preparing these documents and ensuring they meet all requirements, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.