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Visitor & short-stay visas

Chinese China F Visa (Exchanges and Visits)

For foreign nationals invited to China for exchanges, visits, study tours and other non-commercial activities, rather than paid work or trade.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Entries, validity and duration of stay for the F visa are set by the issuing mission and are not route-verified fixed figures. No fee amount is stated.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official China government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
F Visa (Exchanges, visits and study tours)
Route type
Non-commercial visit visa
Number of entries
Single, double or multiple entry
Decided by the mission
Duration of each stay
Set on the visa when issued
Officer discretion
Where to apply
Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate, via COVA
Cost
Set by the issuing mission; varies by nationality and entries

Who can apply

  • People invited to China for exchanges, visits or study tours
  • Participants in non-commercial activities

What you can do

  • Take part in exchanges, visits, study tours and other non-commercial activities

Requirements

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages
  • A completed, printed and signed online application form with one recent white-background passport photo
  • An invitation letter from the relevant entity or individual in China hosting the exchange, visit or study tour
  • Proof of legal residence if you are applying outside your country of nationality

How to apply

  • Complete the COVA application form at consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA and upload your documents
  • Submit your passport, the signed confirmation page and supporting documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate for your area when prompted
  • Provide fingerprints if required and pay the visa fee
  • Collect your passport when it is ready

Documents you may need

  • Original passport plus a photocopy of the bio-data page
  • Printed, signed COVA confirmation page and a recent passport photo
  • An invitation letter from the Chinese entity or individual, describing the non-commercial exchange, visit or study tour and its dates
  • Proof of legal residence if not applying in your home country

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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