Visa-Free Entry for Americans

As of November 2025, US citizens can enter China without a visa for stays up to 30 days.34 This visa-free policy covers tourism, business visits, visiting family or friends, exchanges, and transit purposes. No pre-registration or authorization is required.

To enter visa-free, you simply need a valid US passport and should be prepared to show proof of accommodation and return travel if asked by border officers.3 The policy is effective until December 31, 2026.

When you still need an L visa:

• Stays longer than 30 days
• Multiple entries over an extended period
• Work, study, or journalism purposes (different visa categories required)
• If you prefer the security of having a visa in advance

L Visa Application Process

If you need a visa for longer stays, the L visa application process has been simplified significantly since January 2024.1

1. Complete Online Application

Register and fill out your application through the China Online Visa Application (COVA) system at cova.mfa.gov.cn.12 Upload your documents for preliminary review. Once approved, print the confirmation page.

2. Gather Required Documents

Prepare your passport, visa photo (48mm x 33mm, white background), signed application statement, and proof of US residence.1 Since January 1, 2024, you no longer need to submit flight bookings, hotel reservations, or invitation letters for tourist visas.1

3. Submit Application

After your COVA application status shows “Passport to be submitted,” bring your passport and documents to the Chinese embassy, consulate, or CVASC location in your jurisdiction.1 Walk-in submissions are available during office hours.

4. Collect Your Visa

Standard processing takes 4 working days.56 You will receive notification when your visa is ready. Pick up your passport with the visa sticker from the submission location.

Fees

Payment is made when you collect your visa.5 Accepted payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, Money Order, or Cashier’s Check. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.6

Where to Apply

Your application jurisdiction depends on your state of residence:1

You can also apply through China Visa Application Service Centers (CVASC), which are available in additional cities.5

Understanding the COVA System

The China Online Visa Application (COVA) system launched on September 30, 2025, replacing the previous paper-based application process.1

How it works:

1. Create an account at cova.mfa.gov.cn
2. Fill out the online application form
3. Upload scanned copies of required documents
4. Wait for preliminary review (3-5 working days)
5. When status shows “Passport to be submitted,” visit the embassy or CVASC in person
6. Submit your passport and original documents
7. Pick up your visa after processing

The COVA system streamlines the process by catching errors before you visit in person, reducing rejections and saving time.

Fingerprint Collection

Fingerprints are required for most L visa applicants and must be collected in person at the embassy, consulate, or CVASC.1

Exemptions from fingerprinting:

• Applicants under 14 years old
• Applicants 70 years or older
• Diplomatic passport holders
• Those who have had fingerprints collected within the past 5 years for a Chinese visa

Visa Validity and Stay Duration

L visas for US citizens are typically issued with:6

• 10-year validity with multiple entries
• Maximum stay per visit: 60-90 days (varies by individual circumstances)
• Entry window: You can enter China any time while the visa is valid

The visa validity period is different from the allowed stay duration. Even with a 10-year visa, you must leave China before exceeding the permitted stay per visit (stamped in your passport at entry).

After Entry to China

At the border:

Immigration officers will stamp your passport with your entry date and permitted stay duration. Review this carefully to know your departure deadline.

Registration requirement:

Foreign visitors must register with local police within 24 hours of arrival.6 Hotels handle this automatically. 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 typically granted for valid reasons.

If Your Visa is Refused

Visa refusals for US citizens are uncommon but do occur. If refused:

1. Review the refusal notice to understand the specific reason
2. Address the issue identified in the refusal
3. Wait the required period if specified before reapplying
4. Reapply with improved documentation

Visa fees are generally not refunded for refused applications.6 Consider using a visa agency if you need assistance with a reapplication.

Travel Advisories

Before traveling, check the US State Department’s travel advisory for China.6 As of December 2025, certain regions may have travel restrictions or require additional permits:

• Tibet: Requires a Tibet Travel Permit arranged through a registered tour agency
• Xinjiang: May face travel restrictions; check current requirements

Be aware that the Chinese government may exercise exit bans, preventing foreign nationals from leaving the country during investigations or disputes.6