Thailand and China enjoy one of Southeast Asia’s strongest bilateral relationships, now spanning 50 years of diplomatic ties.5 This close partnership has resulted in a generous visa exemption agreement that allows Thai citizens to visit China without the hassle of visa applications for short trips.3

Entry Options for Thai Citizens

Thai passport holders have two ways to visit China for tourism:

Option 1: Visa-Free Entry (up to 30 days)
Since March 1, 2024, Thai citizens can enter China without a visa for stays up to 30 days.1 This is the simplest option for most tourists.

Option 2: L Visa (for stays over 30 days)
If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, or your cumulative stays exceed 90 days in a 180-day period, you must apply for an L (tourist) visa before traveling.1

Visa-Free Entry Process

For stays up to 30 days, entering China as a Thai citizen is straightforward:

1. Before departure from Thailand
   Ensure your passport has at least six months validity from your entry date.1 While not strictly required, having your return ticket and hotel bookings ready is recommended.

2. At the Chinese border
   Present your Thai passport to the immigration officer. You may be asked about your purpose of visit and length of stay. Answer questions honestly and directly.

3. Immigration clearance
   The officer will stamp your passport permitting stay up to 30 days.1 The process takes only minutes for most travelers.

4. During your stay
   Keep your passport safe. You cannot work, study, or engage in journalism or religious activities under visa-free entry.1

L Visa Application Process (For Longer Stays)

If you need to stay more than 30 days, follow this process to obtain an L visa:

1. Complete the online application
   Visit bio.visaforchina.cn/BKK3_EN and fill out the visa application form.2 Upload your photo and required documents. Print the confirmation page and full form.

2. Gather your documents
   Prepare your passport (original plus photocopy), printed application form with photo, and any supporting documents.1 Since January 2024, flight tickets and hotel bookings are optional but recommended.1

3. Submit in person at CVASC
   Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Bangkok or Chiang Mai during working hours.2 Submit your application and pay the fees in cash (THB only).

4. Fingerprint collection (if required)
   Most tourist visa applicants are currently exempt from fingerprints until December 31, 2025.1 If required, your fingerprints will be collected at this visit.

5. Collect your passport
   Return to CVASC after 4 working days (or sooner if you paid for express service) to collect your passport with the visa.2

Fees

All fees must be paid in Thai Baht cash at the visa center.4 Credit cards are not accepted.

What You Need to Prove

Whether entering visa-free or applying for an L visa, Chinese immigration expects you to demonstrate:

Genuine tourist intent: Your visit must be for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, or short-term business activities. You cannot work, study, or engage in journalism or religious activities.1

Sufficient financial means: While there is no official minimum, you should be able to support yourself during your stay without working.

Clear travel plans: Know where you are going and for how long. Having hotel bookings and a general itinerary ready shows you are a genuine tourist.

Return arrangements: A return ticket to Thailand or onward travel demonstrates you intend to leave within the permitted period.

Processing Times

Express and urgent processing require additional fees and are subject to approval by the Chinese Embassy.1

After You Arrive

Visa-free visitors: Your permitted stay is 30 days from entry. You cannot extend this period. If you want to stay longer, you must leave China and re-enter, or apply for an L visa before your initial trip.1

L visa holders: Your visa will show the validity period, number of entries, and duration of stay. You must enter China before the visa expires, but your permitted stay (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days) begins from the date you actually enter.

Registration requirement: All foreigners staying in China must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels do this automatically when you check in. If staying with friends or in private accommodation, you must register at the local police station.

Keep your documents safe: Your passport and any entry stamps are required for checking into hotels, domestic flights, and train travel.

If Your Visa Is Refused

Visa refusals for Thai citizens applying for L visas are uncommon given the strong bilateral relationship. However, if your application is rejected:

Understand the reason: The visa center may provide general feedback. Common issues include incomplete documentation, application errors, or inconsistent information.

Wait before reapplying: There is no mandatory cooling-off period, but addressing the issues that caused the refusal before reapplying is essential.

Consider professional help: If your situation is complex, a visa agency familiar with Chinese visa applications can help ensure your documents are complete and correct.

Alternative for short trips: If you only need 30 days or less, remember that visa-free entry remains available. You do not need a visa approval to enter China for short tourist visits.