Most international visitors to China are required to obtain a visa before travel.
Nationals of certain countries may be exempt from visa requirements when traveling to China for business, tourism or in transit, provided their stay does not exceed thirty [30] days.
The following nationalities are exempt from visa requirements.
Andorra
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
China
Croatia
Cyprus
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Kuwait
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Montenegro
Netherlands
New Zealand
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
The Republic of Korea
United Kingdom
Uruguay
IF YOU REQUIRE A VISA
If your nationality is not listed as visa-exempt, you will need to apply for an Individual (F) Visa. (Exchange, visits, study tours or other non-commercial activities).
You are strongly advised to review flight options and begin the visa application process as early as possible. You can start the application even if some information is not yet confirmed and save your progress along the way.
Please note that visa processing times and document requirements vary by nationality and country of application.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the online visa application
To apply for a Chinese visa and view detailed instructions for your country or region, please visit:
OR
Step 2: Attend in person (if required)
Once your online application has been reviewed, you may be required to attend your nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or Embassy/Consulate in person to submit your passport and supporting documents.
Requirements and procedures vary by location, so please follow the instructions provided after your online submission.
After your online application is approved, you will usually have 14–21 days to submit your passport and documents in person.
If this deadline is missed, you may need to submit a new application.
Invitation Letter from DHL China
To support your visa application, you will need an invitation letter from DHL China.
-
Please use the link below to download the invitation letter template
- Complete your personal details exactly as shown in your passport
- Ensure the information matches what you enter in your online visa application
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Once completed, please send the form to: dhlscc@rlcuk.com.
Your invitation letter will then be:
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Reviewed
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Signed and stamped by DHL China
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Returned to you via email for upload as part of your online visa application
To ensure that sufficient time is given for this process, please submit your invitation letter template no later than 04 March.
Important Notes
- All travelers (including visa-exempt nationalities) must ensure their passport is valid for at least six (6) months beyond the date of arrival in China.
- Visa processing times are not guaranteed and may be longer during peak travel periods.
- Visa requirements and procedures may change at short notice.
- All visa decisions are made by the Chinese authorities, and approval cannot be guaranteed.
Arrival Requirement (All Delegates)
Regardless of nationality or visa status, all travelers must complete an electronic arrival card within 24 hours prior to arrival in China.
Further details will be provided in your Final Instructions.
