China

China Visa Application Guide 2026

Citizens of the Republic of Turkey planning to travel to the People's Republic of China are required to apply for a visa appropriate to their purpose of travel. The China visa application process is conducted through digital platforms and requires careful and complete preparation. This guide details the current procedures for 2026, visa types, and application steps.

Current Status: Individual Tourist Visa (L Type)

Currently, the issuance of L-type visas for individual tourist travel to China is suspended. Due to this policy change, it is not possible for individual travelers to enter China for tourism purposes at this time. However, travel can be planned through group tours that meet specific conditions or under different visa categories (e.g., commercial, family visit). It is important to confirm the latest status before making an application.

China Visa Types

China offers different visa categories based on the purpose of travel. The most common visa types applied for are:

• Commercial Visa (M Type): Issued to individuals traveling for commercial activities, trade fairs, business meetings, or negotiations. A formal invitation letter from a company in China is mandatory for this visa type.
• Family Visit Visa (Q1/Q2 Type): For those wishing to visit family members or relatives residing in China. The Q1 visa is for stays longer than 180 days, while the Q2 visa is for stays shorter than 180 days.
• Crew Visa (C Type): Required for crew members of international trains, airlines, or ships.
• Student Visa (X1/X2 Type): Issued to students who will be studying in China. X1 is for long-term study programs, and X2 is for short-term ones.

How to Get a China Visa? Step-by-Step Application Process

The China visa application is a digital process that requires following specific steps in order. Adhering to the steps below is essential for a correct and swift application.

1. Filling Out the COVA Online Application Form

The first and most crucial step is to fill out the online application form through the "China Online Visa Application" (COVA) system. This form contains highly detailed questions about personal information, travel plans, education, and work history. It is critical that the form is completed entirely in English or Chinese, without any errors or omissions. After completing the form, the Application ID generated by the system must be saved.

2. Booking an Appointment and Submission at the Application Center

Once the COVA form is completed, an online appointment must be booked through the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website for biometric data collection (fingerprinting) and document submission. On the appointment date, you must visit the application center with a printout of the completed COVA form, your passport, and other required documents.

3. Essential Required Documents

Although additional documents may be required depending on the visa type, the following are essential for all applications:

• Passport: A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned date of departure from China, with at least 2 blank pages.
• COVA Form: A printed copy of the completed online application form.
• Biometric Photo: A 33x48 mm biometric photograph taken within the last 6 months against a white background.
• Appointment Confirmation: A printout of the appointment confirmation from the CVASC website.
• Flight and Hotel Reservations: Round-trip flight tickets and accommodation proof (if the accommodation is specified in an invitation letter, a hotel reservation may not be necessary).
• Invitation Letter (If required): A formal invitation from an institution or individual in China for Commercial (M) and Family Visit (Q) visas.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

The most common reasons for the rejection of China visa applications are errors in the application form and missing documents. Inconsistencies between the information provided in the COVA form and other documents (invitation, reservations, etc.) are a significant cause for refusal. Furthermore, an improperly formatted invitation letter or one that lacks all the required information can also lead to a negative outcome. Other reasons for rejection include a vaguely stated purpose of travel and failure to prove sufficient financial means.

The China Visa Process with Hermes Vize

The China visa application process can be complex due to the detailed COVA form and specific invitation letter formats. Hermes Vize offers professional support to navigate this challenging process, ensuring your application is prepared completely and accurately. Contact our expert team to manage the process smoothly and strengthen your application.