Get a China Visa

Important Information

Processing Times
The Chinese Embassy operates with an approval system for the submission of visa applications. VisaCentral will apply for the approval, and once we have received it, we can submit your visa application. The processing time quoted is the time taken for the visa to be received after approval. Please take this into consideration when requesting your China visa. VisaCentral strongly recommends applicants submit their China visa applications at least 3 weeks before departure.
Eligibility Rules
Please note that applicants must have resided in Singapore for a minimum of 6 months in order to apply for this visa.

Tourist Travel Requirements for an China Visas for Singapore Citizens

  1. Visa May Not Be Required

    Visa exempt for a stay of up to 30 days. The traveller must:

    Please keep in mind that even if staying less than 30 days, you must:

    • Hold a passport valid a least six months on entry with one blank visa page
    • Hold proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
    • Hold proof of onward/return flight
    • Hold all documents required for the next destination
    • Hold a Visa for the next destination, if required
    • Confirm with the airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa as these conditions are subject to change

    For stays exceeding 30 days, a visa is required and must be obtained prior to arrival. Please refer to the VisaCentral application pack for details.

  2. Passport

    The applicant's actual passport. The passport must:

    • Have at least two blank visa pages
    • Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (e.g. if you are requesting a 6 month visa your passport must be valid for 12 months)

  3. Visa Application and Photograph

    Complete the enclosed China Application Form. Then send it and the rest of your documents to the VisaCentral office address listed on the submission checklist page of this application pack. VisaCentral will work with the Chinese government to submit your application. After the application has been accepted we will send it to you via encrypted email for your signature.


    Upload your photograph at https://visacentral.sg/photo-service. For guidance on how to submit an acceptable photograph refer to the China Photo Guide contained in this Application Pack.

  4. Proof of Travel Arrangements

    You must provide proof of travel arrangements for the duration of your trip.  Details of your intended arrangements must:

    • Include a copy of an itinerary or e-ticket showing entry and exit dates
    • Show the traveler's full name as it appears in the passport
    • Include a copy of the hotel confirmation

    Double entry visas: Two flight itineraries must be provided for double entry visa applications. The first itinerary must show the first entry & exit dates to China. The second itinerary must show that the applicant is required to enter China within a short period of time from the first entry (e.g Travellers who are on cruise and are travelling to two destinations in China).

    Please note that it will be at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy to approve a double entry visa.

    If staying with family or friends the following must be supplied:

    • A copy of the flight confirmation showing onward/return travel - If you are requesting a double or multiple entry visa, the itinerary and invitation must specify all entries and exits
    • A photocopy of the inviting party’s passport and residence permit/visa or copy of front and back of their Chinese ID card if a Chinese national.
    • An invitation letter which must contain:
      a) Information of the applicant (incl. full name, gender, date of birth, etc.)
      b) Information regarding the visit (incl. purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relationship between the applicant and the inviting party, and details of any financial support to be provided during the stay in China)
      c) Information of the inviting individual (incl. name, contact telephone number, address, signature of individual).
    • If visiting a family member the applicant must supply a photocopy of their certification of kinship i.e. marriage certificate, birth certificate or notarized certification of kinship issued by the Chinese Public Security Bureau showing the relationship of family members between applicants and inviting parties. ("Family member" refers to spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters and parents-in-law)

  5. VisaCentral - Order Confirmation

    Please provide the VisaCentral Order Summary which will be emailed to you at the time of placing the order.

  6. Place of Birth

    If the applicant was born in China, (including Hong Kong, Taiwan or Macau), they must provide:

    • A copy of their previous China visa

    If the applicant has not had a previous visa for China, they must provide:

    • A copy of the passport identification page and cancelled information page from the old China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau passport

    Please Note: Further documentation may be requested at the discretion of the Embassy.

  7. Copy of Passport Identification Page

    Provide a clear colour copy of:

    • the information page(s) from the applicant's passport 
    • a blank visa page from the applicant's passport

  8. Applicants with Media Occupations

    If the applicant works for a company associated with the media, they must supply an additional business introduction letter. The letter must:

    • Be addressed to the China Embassy
    • Be on company letterhead paper
    • Include the name of the applicant
    • Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is  not media related or engaging in any media coverage
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
    • Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department

    A personal letter is also required. The letter must:

    • Be addressed to the China Embassy
    • Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if it is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any
      media coverage
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Be signed by the applicant

    Processing time and visa validity granted will be subject to the Chinese Embassy’s discretion. CIBT cannot assist to obtain invitations for applicants with media related occupations.

  9. Travellers Born In or Travelled to Turkey

    Applicants who were born in Turkey or who have travelled to Turkey must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Turkey and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). Additionally, a photo copy of the Turkey visa (if applicable) and all entry and exit stamps must be provided.

  10. Withdrawal of Applications

    Please note the Chinese Embassy discourages the withdrawal of an application once submitted

  11. Travellers Born In or Travelled to Pakistan

    Applicants who were born in Pakistan and who have travelled to Pakistan must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Pakistan and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). A photocopy of all Pakistan entry and exit stamps must be submitted together with the application.

    For Pakistan passport holders, a clear photocopy (front and back) of Pakistan ID card must additionally be provided. If you are unable to provide the Pakistan ID card, the reason must be provided in the personal letter.

  12. Housewives, Retired, or Self Employed Applicants

    Housewives, retired, and self-employed applicants must provide evidence of funds. This should be provided as your bank statements for the last three months.

Important Information

Processing Times
The Chinese Embassy operates with an approval system for the submission of visa applications. VisaCentral  will apply for the approval, and once we have received it, we can submit your visa application. The processing time quoted is the time taken for the visa to be received after approval. Please take this into consideration when requesting your China visa. VisaCentral strongly recommends applicants submit their China visa applications at least 3 weeks before departure.
Eligibility Rules
Please note that applicants must have resided in Singapore for a minimum of 6 months in order to apply for this visa.

Business Travel Requirements for an China Visa for Singapore Citizens

  1. Visa May Not Be Required

    Visa exempt for a stay of up to 30 days. The traveller must:

    Please keep in mind that even if staying less than 30 days, you must:

    • Hold a passport valid a least six months on entry with one blank visa page
    • Hold proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
    • Hold proof of onward/return flight
    • Hold all documents required for the next destination
    • Hold a Visa for the next destination, if required
    • Confirm with the airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa as these conditions are subject to change

    For stays exceeding 30 days, a visa is required and must be obtained prior to arrival. Please refer to the VisaCentral application pack for details.

  2. Fingerprint Submission

    If you are aged between 14 and 70 and applying for a multiple-entry visa, your China visa application will not be considered complete until you have submitted fingerprints at a China Visa Application Service Centre. After we have received all the materials required in support of your visa application we will call you to schedule an appointment to submit fingerprints at a China Visa Application Service Centre. Our service includes a standard appointment which is available on a first come, first serve basis.                                                    

  3. Passport

    The applicant's actual passport. The passport must:

    • Have at least two blank visa pages
    • Be valid for six months beyond the length of your requested visa (e.g. if you are requesting a 6 month visa your passport must be valid for 12 months)

  4. Visa Application and Photograph

    Complete the enclosed China Application Form. Then send it and the rest of your documents to the VisaCentral office address listed on the submission checklist page of this application pack. VisaCentral will work with the Chinese government to submit your application. After the application has been accepted we will send it to you via encrypted email for your signature.


    Upload your photograph at https://visacentral.sg/photo-service. For guidance on how to submit an acceptable photograph refer to the China Photo Guide contained in this Application Pack.

  5. Copy of Passport Identification Page

    Provide a clear colour copy of:

    • the information page(s) from the applicant's passport 
    • a blank visa page from the applicant's passport

  6. Letter of Invitation

    You must provide a letter of invitation from your Chinese business counterparts.  A copy is acceptable.  The letter must:

    • Be in English or Chinese
    • Be addressed to the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Singapore
    • Be on company letterhead
    • Include all information listed on the ID page of your passport (full ame, date of birth, gender, passport number, issue date, expiry date, passport issuing authority)
    • Specify in detail the purpose of trip (including place of visit, arrival and departure dates, local contact details)
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of stay required for the visa
    • Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
    • Be signed by the legal representative of the company or the inviting individual
    • Display the company stamp or seal on the letter

    Travellers may refer to the sample Letter of Invitation provided in the Application Kit for how to format the letter.

  7. Proof of Travel Arrangements

    You must provide proof of travel arrangements for the duration of your trip.  Details of your intended arrangements must:

    • Include a copy of an itinerary or e-ticket showing entry and exit dates
    • Show the traveler's full name as it appears in the passport

  8. VisaCentral - Order Confirmation

    Please provide the VisaCentral Order Summary which will be emailed to you at the time of placing the order.

  9. Please Read

    Special Reminders:

    • If necessary, the consular officer may require the applicant to provide other proof documents or supplementary materials
    • The consular officer will decide on whether or not to issue the visa and on its validity, duration of stay and number of entries in light of specific conditions of the applicant

  10. Place of Birth

    If the applicant was born in China, (including Hong Kong, Taiwan or Macau), they must provide:

    • A copy of their previous China visa

    If the applicant has not had a previous visa for China, they must provide:

    • A copy of the passport identification page and cancelled information page from the old China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau passport

    Please Note: Further documentation may be requested at the discretion of the Embassy.

  11. Applicants with Media Occupations

    If the applicant works for a company associated with the media, they must supply an additional original business introduction letter. The letter must:

    • Be addressed to the China Embassy 
    • Be on company letterhead paper
    • Include the name of the applicant
    • Include the applicant’s passport number
    • Include the applicant’s designation
    • Include a brief description of the nature of the applicant’s company 
    • Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is  not media related or engaging in any media coverage
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
    • Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department

    An original personal declaration letter is also required. The letter must:

    • Be addressed to the China Embassy 
    • Include the name of the applicant
    • Include the applicant’s passport number
    • Include the applicant’s designation
    • Include a brief description of the nature of the applicant’s company 
    • Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if it is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Be signed by the applicant

    An original invitation letter from Chinese business counterparts is also required. The letter must:

    • Be in English
    • Be addressed to the China Embassy
    • Be on company letterhead paper
    • Include information of the applicant
    • Specify in detail the purpose of journey and if is not media related, clearly indicate that the visit is not media related or engaging in any media coverage
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Include an acceptance of financial responsibility for the applicant
    • Include a brief description of the nature of the company
    • Be signed by the applicant's supervisor or the company's HR department in China company

    Processing time and visa validity granted will be subject to the Chinese Embassy’s discretion. VisaCentral cannot assist to obtain invitations for applicants with media related occupations.

  12. Multiple Entry Visa Applicants

    Applicants requesting a 6-month or 12-month multiple entry business visa must provide copies of their previous Chinese business visa. Please keep in mind the following:

    • If the valid visa is in another valid passport, that valid original passport must be submitted to the Embassy for cancellation (travellers can only carry one valid China visa on any passport)
    • If the valid visa is in an expired/cancelled passport, that expired/cancelled passport must be submitted to the Embassy for cancellation and verification purposes.
    • If the expired visa is in an expired passport, you must provide a clear colour copy of the previous passport biodata page and China visa. A copy of the entry/exit stamp by the Chinese Immigration must also be provided  to show evidence that the visa had been utilised. If the visa was not utilised, the embassy may grant a single or double entry visa and at their discretion.
    • If the expired visa is in another valid passport (e.g. for dual passport holders or holders of second national passport), that valid original passport must be submitted also to the Embassy for verification purposes

    The applicant's Employment Authorisation or Residency Permit must also be valid at least 1 month beyond the exit date of the intended visa. For example, to request a 12-month multiple entry visa, the applicant's pass must be valid for at least 13 months.

    Additionally, the applicant's passport must be valid for at least 18 months. For example, to request a 1-year multiple entry visa, the applicant's passport must be valid for at least 18 months.

    Please note: The 6-month and 12-month multiple entry business visas are issued at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore.If applicants have not utilised their previous China visa, the Chinese Embassy may not grant a multiple entry visa.

  13. Travellers Born In or Travelled to Turkey

    Applicants who were born in Turkey or who have travelled to Turkey must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Turkey and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). Additionally, a photo copy of the Turkey visa (if applicable) and all entry and exit stamps must be provided.

  14. Withdrawal of Applications

    Please note the Chinese Embassy discourages the withdrawal of an application once submitted

  15. Travellers Born In or Travelled to Pakistan

    Applicants who were born in Pakistan and who have travelled to Pakistan must provide an original personal letter. This letter should state the detailed reasons for travel to Pakistan and specify the exact date(s) of entry, exit, and duration of the stay(s). A photocopy of all Pakistan entry and exit stamps must be submitted together with the application.

    For Pakistan passport holders, a clear photocopy (front and back) of Pakistan ID card must additionally be provided. If you are unable to provide the Pakistan ID card, the reason must be provided in the personal letter.

China Visa FAQ

  1. When is the best time to apply for my China visa?

    The best time to apply for your China visa is 1-2 months before your travel date. However, if you are running short on time, we may be able to process your visa on a faster service at the Embassy’s discretion.
  2. Do I have to send you my passport to get a China visa? Is it safe to send a passport?

    Yes. You will need to send your actual passport, not a copy of it. The China visa is stamped on your passport and will become one of your passport pages. Visa request cannot be processed without your original passport. Because of the importance of your passport, we strongly suggest that you send your application by a secure method, such as a guaranteed postal service or courier.