China Tourist Visa
L Visa (Tourist Visa) · For Mexico citizens
Planning a trip to China as a Mexican citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the L Visa application: required documents, fees of USD 140, standard processing of 4-5 business days, and tips for a successful application. Discover China's ancient history, modern cities, and breathtaking landscapes.
China Tourist Visa for Mexican Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Mexico citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Mexican passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date to China
Complete the Chinese visa application form online through the COVA system
Recent passport-sized color photograph meeting Chinese visa photo requirements
Details of your planned travel in China including flights and accommodation
Fingerprints must be collected at the visa application center
Recommended (Optional)
If not providing hotel bookings, an invitation letter from a host in China
Evidence of sufficient funds for your trip (may be requested)
Application Process
Chinese visa applications for Mexican citizens must be submitted through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in Mexico City or Tijuana.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Complete Online Application
Use the China Online Visa Application (COVA) system to fill out your application form.3 After submission, print the form and sign it by hand. The system launched September 30, 2025, replacing the previous application process.3
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documents including your passport, photo, flight bookings, and hotel reservations. Ensure all documents meet the specified requirements.1
3. Submit Application in Person
Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Mexico City or Tijuana to submit your application. Fingerprints will be collected at this time for applicants aged 14-70.1
4. Pay Fees
Pay the visa application fee and service center fee. Standard processing takes 4-5 business days.1
5. Collect Your Passport
Return to the visa center to collect your passport with the visa, or arrange for courier delivery. Check the visa details carefully upon receipt.1
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| L Visa (Tourist) - Standard Processing | US$140 |
| Express Service (2-3 business days) | Additional fee applies |
| Rush Service (1 business day) | Additional fee applies |
| Service Center Fee | Additional fee applies |
Fees are subject to change. Check the current fee schedule at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Payment is typically accepted in cash or card.
What You Need to Prove
To be granted an L Visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine tourism purpose: Clear intent to visit for sightseeing, visiting friends/family, or other legitimate tourist activities
- Complete travel plans: Round-trip flights and accommodation for entire stay
- Sufficient funds: Ability to support yourself during the trip (may be requested)
- Intent to return: Strong ties to Mexico demonstrating you will leave China after your visit
Processing Times
Current processing times for L Visa applications:1
| Service | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | 4-5 business days |
| Express | 2-3 business days |
| Rush | 1 business day |
Processing times are calculated from the day after your application is accepted. Complex cases may take longer. Apply at least 1-2 weeks before your planned departure.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, check your visa carefully for:
- Correct name spelling matching your passport
- Visa category (L for tourist)
- Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
- Validity period and duration of stay
- Entry port restrictions (if any)
At the Chinese border, you may be asked to show:
- Your valid Mexican passport with visa
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel reservations
- Proof of funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will typically receive a brief explanation. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues
- Provide additional evidence such as stronger financial proof or clearer travel plans
- Seek assistance from a visa service agency for complex cases
A refusal does not permanently prevent future applications. Address the concerns raised and ensure your new application is complete and consistent.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Incomplete or Incorrect Application
Application form has missing information, errors, or inconsistencies with supporting documents.
How to avoid: Double-check every field on the application form. Ensure your name, passport number, and dates match exactly across all documents.
Insufficient Travel Documentation
Missing or inadequate flight bookings, hotel reservations, or travel itinerary for the planned trip.
How to avoid: Provide complete round-trip flight confirmations and hotel bookings for every night of your stay. Include a day-by-day itinerary.
Photo Does Not Meet Requirements
Passport photo does not meet the strict Chinese visa photo specifications.
How to avoid: Use a professional photo service familiar with Chinese visa requirements. Ensure white background, correct dimensions (48x33mm), and no glasses.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of overstays, visa violations, or refusals for China or other countries raises concerns.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Provide explanation letters if you have past visa problems. Show changed circumstances.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
The stated purpose does not match the documentation provided or seems implausible.
How to avoid: Be clear and specific about why you want to visit China. If visiting specific sites or events, mention them. Ensure purpose matches visa type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in China on a tourist visa?
The standard L Visa allows stays of up to 30 days per entry. Multiple-entry L visas may allow multiple 30-day visits within the visa validity period, which can be 6 months, 1 year, or even 10 years.
Can I work on a China tourist visa?
No, the L Visa is strictly for tourism and leisure purposes. Working, studying long-term, or conducting business activities is prohibited. Violations can result in fines, detention, and deportation.
How long does China visa processing take from Mexico?
Standard processing takes 4-5 business days. Express service (2-3 days) and rush service (1 day) may be available for additional fees. Apply at least 1-2 weeks before travel.
What is the China tourist visa fee for Mexicans in 2025?
The L Visa fee for Mexican citizens is approximately US$140 for standard processing. Additional service fees apply at the visa application center.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
Yes, you should have round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations when applying. These can be refundable bookings in case your visa is not approved.
Can I extend my China tourist visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the local Public Security Bureau (Entry-Exit Administration) in China before your current stay expires. Extensions are typically granted for 30 days and require valid reasons.
Is Mexico eligible for China visa-free transit?
China offers transit visa exemptions for certain nationalities and routes. Mexican citizens may be eligible for 24-hour, 72-hour, or 144-hour transit visa exemptions depending on the port of entry. Check specific requirements before traveling.
Can I get a 10-year multiple entry visa?
Yes, Mexican citizens may be eligible for a 10-year multiple-entry L Visa. Each entry allows a stay of up to 30 days. This is ideal for frequent travelers to China.