China Tourist Visa
L Visa (Tourist) · For United Kingdom citizens
Planning a trip to China as a British citizen? Unlike many European neighbours, UK citizens currently need a visa to visit China. The L visa (tourist) costs £130 through CVASC, requires straightforward documentation, and takes 4 working days to process. Approval rates are high at around 93% for British applicants.
China Tourist Visa for UK Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For United Kingdom 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
UK Citizens and China Visa Requirements
Unlike citizens of France, Germany, Italy, and many other European countries, British passport holders are not currently included in China’s visa-free entry policy.4 UK citizens must apply for an L visa (tourist visa) before travelling to China.
The visa-free policy extended until December 31, 2026 covers 45 countries, but the United Kingdom is notably absent from this list.4 This means British travellers need to plan ahead and allow time for the visa application process.
Application Process
The Chinese visa application process for UK citizens involves two stages: an online pre-application and an in-person submission.25
Step 1: Complete Online Application
Visit the CVASC website at visaforchina.cn 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
Visit your nearest CVASC location with your original passport, printed Visa Application Certificate, passport photo, and supporting documents.2 The centres accept walk-in submissions during office hours (9:00-15:00 for standard, 9:00-13:00 for urgent service).
Step 4: Collect Your Visa
Return to collect your passport with the visa after the processing period.2 Standard collection hours are 9:00-16:00 on working days.
Fees
| Visa Type | Total Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (single/double entry) | £130 | 4 working days |
| Express | £161 | 3 working days |
| Urgent | £182 | 2 working days |
| 5-Year Multiple Entry | £194 | 4 working days |
| 10-Year Multiple Entry | £257 | 4 working days |
All fees include the consular fee and CVASC service charge.1 Payment is made in cash or by debit card in GBP at the time of application submission.2 Fees are non-refundable if your application is refused.
The reduced fee schedule is valid until December 31, 2026.1
CVASC Locations in the UK
You must apply in person at one of four Chinese Visa Application Service Centres:2
| Location | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| London | 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DU | 020 7930 0515 |
| Manchester | St James’s Building, 79 Oxford Street, Manchester M1 6SS | 0161 236 9619 |
| Edinburgh | 2 Melville Street, Edinburgh EH3 7NS | 0131 240 0070 |
| Belfast | 40 Ormeau Road, Belfast BT7 1EB | 028 9044 2790 |
Office Hours:
- Application Submission: Monday-Friday, 09:00-15:00 (Urgent: 09:00-13:00)
- Passport Collection: Monday-Friday, 09:00-16:00
The centres are closed on weekends, UK bank holidays, and Chinese public holidays.2
Photo Requirements
Chinese visa photos have specific requirements that differ from UK passport photos:2
- Size: 48mm x 33mm (larger than UK 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.
VIP Services
CVASC offers optional VIP service packages for an additional fee:2
- Package 1 (£66): Assisted form filling and free printing/copying
- Package 2 (£66): Fast lane service with no appointment required
- Package 3 (£66): Extended hours service (8:30-9:00 or 15:00-16:00) plus free printing
These services are optional and do not affect visa processing time or approval chances.
Understanding the Online Review System
Since March 2025, all 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, you have 3 weeks to submit your passport at CVASC
This system means you should start your application at least 30 days before your planned travel date.2
Fingerprint Collection Suspension
Fingerprint collection for Chinese visa applicants has been temporarily suspended.1 The exemption was initially introduced in September 2024 and has been extended until December 31, 2025.
This means most applicants do not currently need to provide biometric data. However, you should check the latest CVASC announcements before your application, as this policy may change.
Permanent exemptions apply to:1
- Applicants under 14 years old
- Applicants aged 70 or over
- Diplomatic passport holders
Visa Validity and Stay Duration
L visas for UK citizens are typically issued as:1
- 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, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years
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 UK citizens are uncommon but do happen. If your application is refused:
- You will receive a refusal notice (though specific reasons may not be detailed)
- Fees are not refunded2
- You can reapply after addressing any issues
- Consider using a visa agency for assistance with reapplication
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 Advisories
Check the UK Government’s 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
- Exit bans: Chinese authorities may prevent departure during disputes or investigations
- Medical screening: You may face temperature checks or other health screening at entry
The UK Foreign Office recommends having comprehensive travel insurance that covers your entire itinerary.
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 UK 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 solicitor 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 UK citizens need a visa to visit China?
Yes, British citizens currently need a visa to visit China. Unlike citizens of France, Germany, and other European countries who can enter visa-free, UK passport holders must apply for an L visa for tourism. The visa-free policy announced in late 2024 currently does not include the United Kingdom.
How much does a China visa cost for UK citizens?
The total cost for a standard tourist visa through CVASC is £130, which includes the £64 consular fee and £66 CVASC service fee. Express service costs £161 (3 working days) and urgent service costs £182 (2 working days). Multi-year visas cost more: £194 for 5-year and £257 for 10-year multiple entry.
How long does China visa processing take for British citizens?
Standard processing takes 4 working days from passport submission at CVASC. Express service (additional £31) takes 3 working days, and urgent service (additional £52) takes 2 working days. You should also allow time for the online pre-application review.
Where can I apply for a China visa in the UK?
You must apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). There are locations in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Belfast. All applications must be submitted online first at visaforchina.cn, then you visit the CVASC in person to submit your passport.
What documents do I need for a China tourist visa?
You need a valid UK passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), completed online application form, passport photo (48mm x 33mm, white background), and proof of travel arrangements including flight bookings and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host in China.
Can I visit Tibet or Xinjiang with a standard tourist visa?
Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit that must be arranged through a registered Chinese tour agency. You cannot obtain this permit independently. Xinjiang may also have travel restrictions. Both regions require careful planning beyond the standard L visa.
How long can I stay in China with an L visa?
The typical L visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days per entry. Some applicants may receive 60 or 90-day single entry visas depending on their circumstances. Multi-entry visas allow you to enter multiple times within the validity period, but each stay is limited to the specified duration.
What is the approval rate for China visas from the UK?
The approval rate for L visa applications from UK citizens is estimated at around 93%. Most applications are approved when documentation is complete and accurate. Common reasons for rejection include application errors, photo issues, and missing documents.
Do I need to provide fingerprints for a China visa?
Fingerprint collection is currently suspended for short-term visa applicants. The exemption has been extended until December 31, 2025. Applicants under 14 or over 70 are permanently exempt from fingerprint collection.
Can I extend my China visa while in China?
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry Administration office before your visa expires. Extensions are typically granted for tourism purposes but are subject to approval and additional fees.