China Tourist Visa
L Visa (Tourist) · For South Africa citizens
Planning a trip to China as a South African citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Tourist Visa (L Visa) application: required documents, reduced fees of R300 for single-entry, processing times of 4-5 working days, and strategies to improve your chances. Take advantage of the extended fee reduction valid until December 2025.
China Tourist Visa for South African Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Africa citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in China
Complete the Chinese visa application form available online or at the visa centre
Recent passport-sized colour photograph meeting Chinese visa specifications
Round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from China
Hotel reservations or invitation letter covering your entire stay
Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your trip
Letter from employer confirming your employment status
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.3 The process involves the following steps:
1. Complete Application Form
Download and complete the visa application form (V.2013) from the CVASC website.3 Fill out all sections in black ink and sign the form.
2. Gather Documents
Collect all required documents including passport, photo, flight reservation, hotel bookings, bank statements, and employment letter.1
3. Book Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban.3
4. Submit Application
Attend your appointment with all documents. Pay the visa fee and service charge.2 Standard processing takes 4-5 working days.
5. Collect Passport
Return to collect your passport with the visa, or arrange courier delivery for an additional fee.3
Fees
| Visa Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry | R300 | Reduced rate until Dec 2025 |
| Double-entry | R375 | Reduced rate until Dec 2025 |
| 6-month Multiple-entry | R525 | Reduced rate until Dec 2025 |
| 12-month Multiple-entry | R675 | Reduced rate until Dec 2025 |
| Service Center Fee | ~R200 | Per application |
| Express Processing | +R200 | 2-3 working days |
Note: The Chinese government has extended reduced visa fees until December 31, 2025.2
What You Need to Prove
When applying for a Chinese tourist visa, you must demonstrate:1
- Genuine tourism purpose with a clear and realistic itinerary
- Sufficient funds to cover all expenses during your stay
- Confirmed travel arrangements including flights and accommodation
- Intent to return to South Africa after your visit
- Valid travel document with adequate validity and blank pages
Processing Times
Standard processing at Chinese Visa Application Service Centers takes 4-5 working days.3
| Service Level | Processing Time | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 4-5 working days | Included |
| Express | 2-3 working days | +R200 |
Processing may take longer during:3
- Chinese public holidays (especially Chinese New Year)
- Peak travel seasons
- When additional verification is required
After Your Visa is Approved
Your visa will be stamped in your passport. Check the following details carefully:
- Visa type (L for tourist)
- Number of entries allowed
- Validity dates
- Duration of each stay
When entering China:
- Complete the arrival card
- Have hotel booking confirmation ready
- Show return flight ticket if requested
- Register with local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do this automatically)
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will be informed of the general reason. Common steps include:
- Review the reason provided and identify what was missing or incorrect
- Reapply with complete and correct documentation
- Consider using a visa agent if you’re unsure about requirements
- Allow more time before your next application attempt
Refusals are typically due to documentation issues rather than security concerns for South African applicants.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents such as hotel bookings, flight reservations, or employment letter. Application form not fully completed.
How to avoid: Double-check all required documents before submission. Ensure hotel bookings cover your entire stay and flight dates match your application.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate adequate funds for the planned trip duration and activities.
How to avoid: Show at least 3 months of statements with stable balance. Budget approximately USD 100-150 per day plus flights and hotels.
Inconsistent Information
Information in application does not match supporting documents. Discrepancies in dates, names, or travel plans.
How to avoid: Ensure all dates match across documents. Name must appear exactly as in passport. Review application before submission.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Itinerary seems unrealistic or purpose of visit is not clearly established as tourism.
How to avoid: Provide a clear day-by-day itinerary. Ensure travel plans are realistic for the visa duration requested.
Previous Visa Issues
History of visa overstays or refusals from China or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about any previous immigration issues. Provide explanation for any past problems and evidence of changed circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in China on a tourist visa?
Most tourist visas (L Visa) grant 30-60 days per entry. The exact duration is determined by the consulate based on your itinerary and travel history. Multiple-entry visas allow you to enter China multiple times within the validity period.
Can I work on a Chinese tourist visa?
No, the L Visa (Tourist) does not permit any form of work in China. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in fines, detention, and deportation. You would need a Z Visa for employment.
How long does Chinese visa processing take from South Africa?
Standard processing takes 4-5 working days. Express service (2-3 days) is available for an additional fee. During peak season or holidays, allow extra time.
What is the Chinese tourist visa fee for South Africans in 2025?
Single-entry visa costs R300 (reduced from R400). Double-entry is R375, 6-month multiple-entry is R525, and 12-month multiple-entry is R675. These reduced rates are valid until December 2025.
Do I need hotel bookings before applying?
Yes, you need to show accommodation for your entire stay in China. Hotel reservations are required. If staying with friends or family, you need an invitation letter from them with their Chinese ID details.
Is there an e-visa or visa on arrival for South Africans?
South African citizens are not eligible for visa-free entry or e-visa to China. You must apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center before travel.
Where can I apply for a Chinese visa in South Africa?
You can apply at Chinese Visa Application Service Centers in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban. The centers handle all visa applications on behalf of the Chinese Embassy and Consulates.