Last updated: 28 Mar 2013
Visas
A Chinese visa is a permit issued by the Chinese visa authorities to all foreign nationals, for entry into, exit from, or transit through China. A Chinese visa can be obtained through your travel agent or through your nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Australia.
The general requirements are as follows:
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the duration of your intended stay, and you must also be able to provide evidence of a return or onward ticket.
- Completed visa application form, with two recently taken passport sized photos.
- Other relevant documents relating to the entry or transit application, which vary depending on the type of visa the foreign national is applying for.
Visa categories
The Chinese visa authorities may issue a diplomatic, courtesy, business or ordinary visa to you depending on the status and type of passport held, and purpose of visit to China. You should ensure that you obtain the appropriate visa for the purpose of your visit. However, it is important to note that the Chinese Consulate has the final say on what type of visa you can obtain, and how many days you can stay in China for on each visit. The following main categories of visa apply:
- F (business, academic visit) visa: This visa requires an invitation letter from an authorised institution in China. The purpose of this visa is for a visit, an investigation, a lecture, to do business, scientific-technological and cultural exchanges, short-term advanced studies or intern practice, for a period of no more than six months. Usually, only single entry visas are issued.
- L (family visit, tourist) visa: These visas are generally no longer than 90 days in length, and are issued to visitors who come to China for sightseeing, family visits, or other private purposes. You are required to provide a printed itinerary (flight schedule) from your travel agent.
- X (study) visa: This visa requires a letter of admission from an educational institution in China. The purpose is for advanced studies or intern practice for a period of no more than six months.
- Z (work) visa: This visa requires a work permit or employment license issued by the Chinese Labour Authorities, and a statement of confirmation by the employer or a Chinese governmental invitation. It is issued to a person who comes to China for a post.
Getting a visa in Hong Kong
Please note that Hong Kong and Macau are Special Administrative Regions with separate visa and entry administration. It is relatively straight forward to obtain a China visa in Hong Kong. Most of the major hotels and travel agencies in Hong Kong offer a China visa service with a turnaround time of one to two days. A service fee is charged to handle this visa application process. Alternatively, you can apply yourself through the Consulate Department Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in Hong Kong. This method is cheaper, but often takes a longer!
For further information please contact your nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate prior to arrival.
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