Visa Application for China citizens in the United States — 2026

Applying for a China visa from the United States is done at the consulate or embassy covering your state of residence. The China consular network in the U.S. processes tourist, business, student, family and transit visas for travelers and China expats.

China consulates processing visa applications

Who needs a China visa?

U.S. citizens may or may not need a visa for China depending on the visa policy. Citizens of third countries residing in the U.S. typically need a visa.

Visa types include: tourist (short stay), business, student, work, family reunification, transit, diplomatic.

Required documents

• Valid passport (typically 6 months remaining validity)
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport photos
• Flight reservations and accommodation proof
• Travel insurance (often required)
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Visa fee

How to apply

China uses the app "Zhongguo Lingshi APP" for visa applications.

Biometric data (fingerprints, photo) may be collected at the appointment.

Costs and processing times

Visa fees vary widely: from $30 for short-term visas to $200+ for long-term or business visas. Processing times range from 5 business days (express) to 8 weeks (regular).