Visa Types

China Work Visa Essentials

Apply to work in China, extend a work permit or hire a foreign worker.

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Key Points for China Work Visa >>>

Do you need a visa to travel to China?

Yes, Indians need visa to travel to China.

China visa application is made online or offline?

The visa application form can be filled out online or offline, but the submission of documents is done in person at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in India.

Do I need to give biometrics?

Yes, Biometrics are required to obtain a visa.(under the age of 14 or over the age of 70)

Is there an interview required to obtain a Chinese visa?

No, an interview is not usually required to obtain an Chinese visa, but it may vary. The embassy may interview you by phone or in person.

What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a Work visa?

Varies based on the job offer and duration of employment.

What kind of visa will we acquire from China?

It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport

Current Visa fees: (Updated on 11-12-2023)

Visa Category Visa Fee
Single entry Rs2900
Double-entry Rs4400
Six months multiple-entry Rs5900
12 months or above multiple-entry Rs8800
Group visa/Each applicant Rs1800
Official group visa/Each applicant Rs1800
   
  Service fee
Extra fee for express service Rs2700 / 1800
Regular Service(6th working day collection)

 

(Inclusive of Service Tax)

Rs1861
Express Service (third working day collection)

 

(Inclusive of Service Tax)

Rs2742
Postal Service (Inclusive of Service Tax)

 

 

Rs2742
Premium Lounge Service (Inclusive of Service Tax)

 

 

Rs2742

Note:

  • Visa Fees go to the Chinese Embassy.
  • Application Service Fees are charged by the Centre and cannot be refunded.
  • To apply, pay the total in cash: visa fees + application service fees.
  • Fees change quarterly based on the USD to Rs exchange rate.
 

Step-by-step guide

Let us walk you through the process

  • Accurately determine the visa type based on your purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business, visiting relatives) to apply for a Chinese visa. Each type has specific requirements and procedures.
  • Identifying the correct visa type increases the chances of a successful application by ensuring you provide the necessary documents and follow the correct process.
  • Take the time to understand and select the right visa type for a smooth and successful application process when visiting China.

  • Based on the type of visa you are applying for, collect all the necessary documents. Commonly required documents include: Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond the intended stay), Completed visa application form, Recent passport-sized photograph(s), Proof of travel itinerary (flight tickets or hotel bookings), Supporting documents specific to visa category (invitation letter, business documents, admission letter, employment contract, etc.)

  • Schedule an appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in India. Visit their official website or contact their visa application center to obtain information on appointment booking procedures, availability, and any specific requirements for the appointment.

  • Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. Double-check for any errors or missing information.
  • Ensure that you provide all the required supporting documents along with the application form.

  • When submitting your application, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The fee amount depends on the type of visa you are applying for.
  • Verify the accepted payment methods and fee details from the embassy/consulate's website or visa application center.

  • Submit your completed application form, along with the required documents and the visa application fee.
  • Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) at the scheduled appointment time.

  • Keep track of your visa application's progress. The embassy or consulate may provide a tracking system or updates on their website. It is advisable to regularly check for any updates or notifications regarding your application status.

  • The processing time for Chinese visas can vary, but it typically takes around two weeks. Be patient during this period and avoid making any travel arrangements until you receive your visa.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

When applying for a work visa (Z Visa) to China from India, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:

  1. Valid passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry and has blank visa pages.
  2. Completed China visa application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. You can usually find the form online on the official website of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate.
  3. Invitation letter: Obtain an official invitation letter from a Chinese employer or organization. The invitation letter should include details such as the purpose of your employment, job position, duration of employment, and salary.
  4. Employment contract: Provide a copy of your employment contract or work agreement with the Chinese employer. The contract should include information about your job responsibilities, working hours, compensation, and other relevant terms and conditions.
  5. Alien Employment Permit (also known as a Foreigner’s Work Permit): This is issued by the Chinese authorities and is usually obtained by the employer on your behalf. Ensure you have the original or a copy of the permit.
  6. Physical examination record: Complete a health checkup at a designated medical institution and obtain a physical examination record to confirm your good health. The requirements for the medical examination may vary, so it’s important to check with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate for specific guidelines.
  7. Passport-sized photographs: Provide recent color photographs that meet the specific requirements set by the Chinese authorities. Guidelines typically include specifications regarding size, background color, and facial expression.
  8. Resume/CV: Submit a detailed resume or curriculum vitae outlining your educational background, work experience, and relevant qualifications.
  9. Academic qualifications: Provide copies of your academic qualifications, such as university degrees, diplomas, or certificates, to support your application.
  10. Proof of work experience: Include documentation that verifies your work experience, such as employment certificates, reference letters from previous employers, or relevant professional licenses.
  11. Company documents: If you are working for a Chinese company, the employer may need to provide certain company-related documents, such as business licenses, registration certificates, and company profiles.
  12. Previous passport and visa copies (if applicable): If you have previous Chinese visas or passports with Chinese visas, provide copies of these documents to support your application.
  13. Other supporting documents: Depending on your specific circumstances and the requirements of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate, you may be asked to provide additional documents, such as a personal statement, financial proof, or educational credentials evaluation.

Note: It’s important to note that the specific document requirements and procedures for obtaining a China Work Visa (Z Visa) may vary based on the country and the specific circumstances of the applicant. It is advisable to check the official website of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate or consult with your employer or a professional immigration advisor for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the document checklist for a work visa to China.

Document Checklist for Z Visa (General Employment):

  1. Passport: Valid passport.
  2. Visa Application Form: Completed visa application form.
  3. Employment Contract: Original copy of the employment contract.
  4. Invitation Letter: Invitation letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department.
  5. Employment Permit: Original Employment Permit for Foreigners.
  6. Work-related Qualifications: Relevant diplomas, degrees, or professional certificates.
  7. Resume/CV: Detailed resume or curriculum vitae.
  8. Medical Examination Report: Foreigner Physical Examination Form.

Document Checklist for Z Visa (Foreign Experts):

  1. Passport
  2. Visa Application Form
  3. Invitation Letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department
  4. Work-related Qualifications
  5. Resume/CV
  6. Employment Contract or Work Agreement
  7. Employment Permit for Foreigners
  8. Medical Examination Report

Document Checklist for Z Visa (Intra-Company Transfer):

  1. Passport
  2. Visa Application Form
  3. Invitation Letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department
  4. Employment Contract or Work Agreement
  5. Work-related Qualifications
  6. Resume/CV
  7. Proof of intra-company transfer within the same multinational corporation
  8. Employment Permit for Foreigners
  9. Medical Examination Report

Document Checklist for Z Visa (Entertainment):

  1. Passport
  2. Visa Application Form
  3. Invitation Letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department
  4. Employment Contract or Work Agreement
  5. Work-related Qualifications
  6. Resume/CV
  7. Proof of engagement in performing arts, sports, or entertainment-related activities
  8. Employment Permit for Foreigners
  9. Medical Examination Report

Document Checklist for Z Visa (Crew):

  1. Passport
  2. Visa Application Form
  3. Invitation Letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department
  4. Employment Contract or Work Agreement
  5. Work-related Qualifications
  6. Resume/CV
  7. Proof of involvement in international transportation services
  8. Employment Permit for Foreigners
  9. Medical Examination Report

Document Checklist for Z Visa (Journalism):

  1. Passport
  2. Visa Application Form
  3. Invitation Letter from the Chinese employer or authorized government department
  4. Employment Contract or Work Agreement
  5. Work-related Qualifications
  6. Resume/CV
  7. Press Card or Letter of Assignment from the media organization
  8. Employment Permit for Foreigners
  9. Medical Examination Report

Note: It’s important to note that the specific requirements and documentation for each category may vary. It is advisable to consult with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your jurisdiction or seek professional advice to ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding the requirements for the specific category of Z visa you are applying for.

VISA APPLICATION FORMS

Before submitting your visa application, please review the list of required documents carefully. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately, reducing the chances of your application being rejected due to incorrect or incomplete documents

Download visa application form:

Online Visa Application Form:

Note: It is important to acknowledge that visa requirements and procedures are subject to change. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult the official website of the respective embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the application process for a Chinese Work visa from India.

 

VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:

The process for applying for a Chinese work visa (Z Visa) from India typically involves the following steps:

  1. Obtain a Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Chinese employer who is authorized to hire foreign workers. Ensure that the job offer includes the necessary details such as your position, salary, and duration of employment.
  2. Get a Work Permit Notification Letter: Your Chinese employer needs to apply for a Work Permit Notification Letter on your behalf from the local Human Resources and Social Security Bureau (HRSSB) in China. This letter confirms that you have been approved for employment in China.
  3. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents for your visa application. The specific requirements may vary based on the visa type and purpose of your visit.
  4. Submitting the Application: Schedule an appointment at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in India responsible for processing Chinese visa applications. Visit their website or contact them directly to find out the specific application procedures and appointment requirements. Submit the completed visa application form and all the necessary documents during your appointment.
  5. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the required visa fee, which varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you’re applying for. Confirm the accepted payment methods with the embassy or consulate.
  6. Visa Processing: The embassy or consulate will process your visa application. This usually takes several business days, but the processing time can vary. During this period, the embassy or consulate may contact you for additional information or documentation if needed.
  7. Collecting the Visa: Once your visa application is approved, collect your passport with the visa affixed to it from the Chinese embassy or consulate. Ensure that all the details on the visa are correct.
  8. Travel to China: With your work visa in hand, you can travel to China within the visa’s validity period. Upon arrival in China, you should apply for a Residence Permit within 30 days to convert your visa into a legal work permit.

Note: Please note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary based on your nationality, the Chinese embassy or consulate you’re applying to, and the specific regulations of the province or city where you will work in China. It’s crucial to consult the website of the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your jurisdiction for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Additionally, it is advisable to work closely with your Chinese employer to ensure that all the necessary paperwork and processes are completed accurately and on time.

  1. Z Visa (General Employment): This visa category is for individuals seeking employment in China in various fields. It is applicable to individuals who have secured a job offer from a Chinese employer and meet the general employment requirements. The required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, Work Permit Notification Letter, visa invitation letter, health certificate, employment contract, academic qualifications, police clearance certificate (if required), and passport-sized photographs.
  2. Z Visa (Foreign Experts): This visa category is designed for highly skilled professionals and experts who are recruited by Chinese employers in specialized fields. In addition to the documents required for the Z Visa (General Employment), foreign experts may need to provide additional proof of their expertise, such as academic qualifications, professional certificates, or letters of recommendation.
  3. Z Visa (Intra-Company Transfer): This visa category applies to individuals who are being transferred within a multinational company to work in their Chinese branch or subsidiary. The required documents include those needed for the Z Visa (General Employment), along with additional documents like the employment contract, proof of employment within the parent company, and a letter from the parent company justifying the transfer.
  4. Z Visa (Entertainment): This visa category is for individuals working in the entertainment industry, such as performers, artists, or production crew members, who are employed in China. In addition to the documents required for the Z Visa (General Employment), applicants may need to provide a letter of invitation from the relevant Chinese organization or employer, details of the entertainment project, and additional documentation related to their specific role in the industry.
  5. Z Visa (Crew): This visa category is for individuals working on board international transportation vessels, such as airlines or shipping companies, that operate in China. The required documents include those needed for the Z Visa (General Employment), along with supporting documents from the transportation company, such as a letter of employment or a crew member certificate.
  6. Z Visa (Journalism): This visa category is for journalists or media personnel who are employed by foreign news agencies or organizations to work in China. In addition to the documents required for the Z Visa (General Employment), applicants may need to provide a letter of invitation from the media organization, a letter from the employer detailing the purpose and duration of the assignment, and proof of qualifications or professional experience in journalism.

Note: These are the main work visa categories in China, each catering to different purposes and types of employment. It’s important to determine the appropriate visa category based on your specific circumstances and consult the Chinese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and requirements.