China Visa on Arrival: Fastest Way to Get a China Visa

Written by Sally Guo Updated May. 14, 2023

China Visa on Arrival (also known as Landing Visa or Port Visa) allows travelers to obtain their visa upon arrival at select ports of entry in China. Eliminating the need to apply for a visa in advance, this is the fastest way to get a China visa.

In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information about China Visa on Arrival (VOA).

Who Can Apply for a China Visa on Arrival?

China Visa on Arrival is available for citizens of certain countries. It's important to note that not all nationalities are eligible for this visa option.

Currently, citizens from select countries, including Japan, Singapore, Brunei, and the United Arab Emirates, among others, can apply for the China Visa on Arrival. The US, UK, and French citizens cannot apply for China visas on arrival.

You are suggested to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on eligibility.

Where Can I Apply for a China Visa on Arrival?

There are four Special Economic Zones in China providing port visas on arrival, they are Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Xiamen, and Hainan. Eligible passengers can apply for a short stay at certain border ports directly.

Individuals with a China Visa on Arrival should enter and exit China through the designated port where the visa was issued. They should not exceed the administrative boundaries of the city where the port of entry is located, too.

Visa on Arrival	Stay Duration Valid for	Eligible Ports	Authorized Stay Areas
Shenzhen	5 days	Luohu, Shekou, Huanggang, Fuyong ports, Shenzhen Airport	Shenzhen
Zhuhai	3 days	Gongbei, Hengqin, Jiuzhou ports	Zhuhai
Xiamen	5 days	Xiamen Airport	Xiamen
Hainan	30 days	Haikou Airport, Sanya Airport, cruise ports in Haikou and Sanya	Hainan

How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival?

Individuals applying for China Visa on Arrival should submit their application upon arrival at the designated port of entry.

For group tours, the organizing travel agency should submit the application to the port of entry authorities on behalf of the travelers.

In some cases, the inviting entity or individual can submit the application to the local port of entry authorities before the foreigner's arrival.

Documents Required

A valid passport (with at least six months validity and two blank visa pages).
Complete a Special Economic Zone Visa Application Form.
Recent passport-sized photos.
An invitation letter or other relevant documents related to the purpose of urgent entry issued by the competent authorities or the inviting entity/individual.

For group tours, the tour must consist of at least two people. The organizing travel agency should provide an invitation letter, a list of group members, and a travel itinerary approved by the relevant authorities when applying for a group L visa.

China Visa on Arrival for Travelers in Emergencies

For humanitarian reasons, China Visa on Arrival is available for individuals who have a genuine and urgent need to enter China. This includes individuals who are invited for urgent business, emergency repairs, or other compelling reasons recognized by the relevant authorities.

Additionally, travel agencies organizing group tours can also apply for Landing Visa/Port Visa on behalf of their clients.

Valid Ports

Ports of entry offering port visas under emergency situations include Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Dalian, Fuzhou, Xiamen, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Guangzhou (Baiyun Airport), Shenzhen (Luohu and Shekou), Zhuhai (Gongbei), Haikou, Sanya, Qingdao, Weihai, Yantai, Changsha, Wuhan, Urumqi, Chengdu, and Chongqing.

The following situations qualify for applying for a visa at the port visa authority:

1. Being invited at short notice by the Chinese side to attend a trade fair in China.

2. Being invited to China to enter a bid or to formally sign an economic or trade contract.

3. Coming to China for supervision of export goods loading, import goods inspection, or contract acceptance as per agreements.

4. Being invited to participate in equipment installation or emergency repairs.

5. Coming to China at the request of the Chinese side to resolve claims.

6. Being invited to provide technological consultations in China.

7. Temporary replacement or addition of individuals in a group after the group visa has been processed, with the consent of the Chinese side.

8. For visiting critically ill patients or handling funeral matters.

9. Transit passengers who, due to unforeseen reasons, are unable to leave within 24 hours or need to change to another mode of transportation to leave.

10. Others who have been genuinely invited but cannot apply for a visa at Chinese diplomatic missions abroad and hold a letter of consent from the designated competent authorities to apply for a visa at the port of entry.

11. International travel groups organized by approved Chinese international travel agencies.

There is NO ABSOLUTE GUARANTEE that you can obtain a visa at the port of entry, so it is highly advisable to get your China visa in your country before your departure! See how to apply for a China visa.

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We can help you to customize an unforgettable travel experience to make the best of your time and meet your interests. Here are also three sample private tours we recommend for your inspiration: