China Tourist Visa
L Visa (Tourist) · For France citizens
Planning a trip to China as a French citizen? Good news: you can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, or family visits until December 31, 2026. For stays longer than 30 days, you will need an L visa (tourist). The visa costs around €112 through CVASC Paris, takes 4 working days to process, and approval rates are very high at around 95% for French applicants.
China Tourist Visa for French Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For France citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet validity requirements for entry to China
Complete the visa application through the CVASC online system
Recent colour photograph meeting Chinese visa specifications
Proof of travel plans and accommodation in China
Recommended (Optional)
Copy of your most recent Chinese visa or residence permit
Fingerprint collection for visa applicants
French Citizens and China Entry: Visa-Free or L Visa?
French citizens enjoy one of the most favourable entry policies to China among European nations.1 Since December 2023, France has been included in China’s unilateral visa-free policy, which has been extended until December 31, 2026.
When you need a visa:
- Stays longer than 30 days
- Work, study, or journalism purposes
- Multiple entries over an extended period
When you can enter visa-free:
- Tourism up to 30 days
- Business meetings up to 30 days
- Family visits up to 30 days
- Transit purposes
In the first four months of 2024 alone, China recorded 104,000 arrivals from French nationals, a 295% increase compared to the same period in 2023.4 Of these, 74,000 used the visa-free entry option.
Visa-Free Entry Requirements
If your trip is 30 days or less, you can enter China without applying for a visa. At the border, you will need:1
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for entire stay, French ordinary passport |
| Return ticket | Proof of onward travel from China |
| Accommodation | Hotel booking or invitation letter from host |
| Travel insurance | Recommended but not mandatory |
Important notes:
- The 30-day period cannot be extended by leaving and re-entering
- You cannot convert visa-free status to work or residence status while in China
- Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically)
Application Process for L Visa
If you need to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for an L visa before travelling. The process involves two stages:25
Step 1: Complete Online Application
Visit the CVASC website at visaforchina.cn/PAR3_EN and create an account.2 Fill out the application form completely, upload your supporting documents (passport bio page, photo, travel itinerary), and submit for preliminary review. This online review typically takes several working days.
Step 2: Receive Approval Email
Once your online application passes review, you will receive a confirmation email with a Visa Application Certificate.5 Print this certificate, which you will need for the in-person submission.
Step 3: Submit at CVASC Paris
Visit the CVASC Paris centre with your original passport, printed Visa Application Certificate, passport photo, and supporting documents.2 The centre accepts walk-in submissions during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00-12:00 for submissions).
Step 4: Collect Your Visa
Return to collect your passport with the visa after the processing period.2 Collection hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00-14:00.
Fees
| Visa Type | Total Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (single/double entry) | €112 | 4 working days |
| Express | €157 | 3 working days |
| Urgent | €187 | 2 working days |
| 6-Month Multiple Entry | €142 | 4 working days |
| 12-Month Multiple Entry | €166 | 4 working days |
All fees include the consular fee and CVASC service charge.2 Payment is made in euros via debit card at the time of application submission. Fees are non-refundable if your application is refused.
CVASC Paris Location
The Chinese Visa Application Service Centre relocated in May 2025:2
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 26 Rue Jacques Dulud, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine |
| Nearest Metro | Les Sablons (Line 1) |
| Phone | +33 (0)1 88 75 07 41 |
| pariscentre@visaforchina.org |
Office Hours:
- Application Submission: Monday-Friday, 09:00-12:00
- Payment and Collection: Monday-Friday, 09:00-14:00
The centre is closed on weekends, French public holidays, and Chinese public holidays.2
Photo Requirements
Chinese visa photos have specific requirements that differ from French passport photos:2
- Size: 48mm x 33mm (larger than French passport size)
- Background: White only
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed
- Glasses: Not permitted
- Head coverings: Only for religious reasons
Photo specification errors are one of the most common reasons for application delays. Use a professional photo service and specifically request Chinese visa dimensions.
Understanding the Online Review System
Since 2025, all visa applicants must complete an online application before visiting CVASC in person.5 The system was introduced to catch errors early and streamline processing.
Key points about online review:
- You cannot submit a paper application without completing online review first
- Online review takes approximately 3-5 working days
- You must receive the “Review Completed” status before visiting CVASC
- The Visa Application Certificate must be printed and brought to your appointment
- After receiving approval, submit your passport within the timeframe specified
This system means you should start your application at least 30 days before your planned travel date if you need a visa.2
Fingerprint Collection Suspension
Fingerprint collection for Chinese visa applicants has been temporarily suspended.1 The exemption has been extended until December 31, 2025.
This means most applicants do not currently need to provide biometric data. However, check the latest CVASC announcements before your application, as this policy may change.
Permanent exemptions apply to:
- Applicants under 14 years old
- Applicants aged 70 or over
- Diplomatic passport holders
Visa Validity and Stay Duration
L visas for French citizens are typically issued as:
- Single entry: Valid for 3 months, stay up to 30 days
- Double entry: Valid for 6 months, stay up to 30 days per entry
- Multiple entry: Valid for 6 months, 1 year, or longer
The visa validity period is different from the permitted stay. Even with a multi-year visa, each individual visit is typically limited to 30 days (though 60 or 90 days may be granted in some cases).
After Entry to China
At immigration:
Officers will stamp your passport with entry date and permitted stay duration. Review this carefully as it determines your departure deadline.
Registration requirement:
All foreign visitors must register with local police within 24 hours of arrival.3 Hotels handle this automatically when you check in. If staying at a private residence, you must register at the local Public Security Bureau.
Extending your stay:
If you need more time, apply for an extension at the Exit-Entry Administration of the local Public Security Bureau before your current permitted stay expires. Extensions are possible but not guaranteed.
If Your Visa is Refused
Visa refusals for French citizens are uncommon due to the generally excellent approval rate. If your application is refused:
- Read the refusal notice carefully and understand the specific grounds
- Fees are not refunded2
- You can reapply after addressing any issues
- Consider visa-free entry if your stay is 30 days or less
Common reasons for refusal include incomplete documentation, photo issues, and inconsistencies in the application. Taking care with your initial application significantly reduces refusal risk.
Travel Considerations
Check the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel advice for China before your trip.3 Key points include:
- Tibet: Requires a special Tibet Travel Permit arranged through a registered tour agency
- Xinjiang: May have travel restrictions; check current requirements
- Health screening: You may face temperature checks or other health screening at entry
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers your entire itinerary is recommended, even though it is not mandatory for visa-free entry.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Application Form Errors
Incomplete online application, inconsistent information, or discrepancies between documents
How to avoid: Double-check all information matches across your passport, application form, and supporting documents. Ensure all required fields are completed and the Visa Application Certificate is printed correctly.
Photo Specification Issues
Photo does not meet the 48mm x 33mm size requirement, has wrong background colour, or does not clearly show your face
How to avoid: Use a professional photo service and specify Chinese visa photo requirements. The Chinese visa photo is larger than a standard French passport photo.
Missing or Incorrect Documents
Failing to provide all required documents or submitting expired or incorrect documentation
How to avoid: Review the complete checklist before your appointment. Ensure all documents are current and match the information on your application form.
Sensitive Region Concerns
Application mentions planned travel to Tibet, Xinjiang, or other sensitive regions without proper context
How to avoid: If visiting Tibet, you need a special permit arranged through a registered tour agency. For standard tourism, focus your itinerary on major cities.
Criminal Record or Security Concerns
Serious criminal record or previous deportation from China may affect approval
How to avoid: Minor offences typically do not cause rejection. Serious offences should be disclosed honestly. Consult an immigration lawyer if you have concerns.
Sensitive Profession
Applicants in media, journalism, military, or religious roles may face additional scrutiny
How to avoid: Journalists and military personnel may need to provide additional documentation or face longer processing times. Be accurate about your occupation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do French citizens need a visa to visit China?
For stays up to 30 days, no. French citizens can enter China visa-free until December 31, 2026 for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. For stays longer than 30 days, you need to apply for an L visa (tourist).
How long can French citizens stay in China without a visa?
French citizens can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa under the current visa-free policy. This policy is valid until December 31, 2026. For longer stays, you must apply for the appropriate visa before travelling.
How much does a China visa cost for French citizens?
For stays requiring a visa, the total cost through CVASC Paris is approximately €112 for a standard single-entry tourist visa, including consular and service fees. Express service costs €157 (3 working days) and urgent service costs €187 (2 working days).
How long does China visa processing take for French citizens?
Standard processing takes 4 working days from passport submission at CVASC Paris. Express service takes 3 working days, and urgent service takes 2 working days. Allow additional time for the online pre-application review.
Where can I apply for a China visa in France?
You must apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in Paris, located at 26 Rue Jacques Dulud, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine (near Les Sablons Metro). All applications must be submitted online first at visaforchina.cn, then you visit CVASC in person to submit your passport.
What documents do I need for visa-free entry to China?
For visa-free entry (up to 30 days), you need a valid French passport (6+ months validity), proof of onward travel such as a return flight, accommodation details or invitation letter, and travel insurance is recommended. No visa application or fees required.
Can I visit Tibet with a French passport?
Yes, but Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit that must be arranged through a registered Chinese tour agency. You cannot obtain this permit independently. The permit is required whether you enter visa-free or with a visa.
Can I extend my stay in China as a French citizen?
Yes. If you entered visa-free and need to stay beyond 30 days, you can apply for a visa extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry Administration office before your permitted stay expires. Extensions are subject to approval.
What happens if I overstay in China?
Overstaying in China incurs fines of ¥500 (approximately €65) per day, up to a maximum of ¥10,000. Serious overstays may result in detention and deportation. Always leave before your permitted stay expires or apply for an extension.
What is the approval rate for China visas from France?
The approval rate for L visa applications from French citizens is estimated at around 95%. Most applications are approved when documentation is complete and accurate. The high approval rate reflects the strong diplomatic relations between France and China.