Business visa requirements by country — full 30-country reference
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| Country | Region | Visa type | Entry mode | Max stay | Fee | Refusal risk | Updated | Official source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | North America | B-1/B-2 Business/Visitor Visa | Embassy application | 180 days (verified by CBP officer upon entry) | About 1,330 yuan (MRV fee of 185 US dollars, non-refundable) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html |
| Canada | North America | Visitor Visa/Temporary Resident Visa (TRV, Business) | Embassy application | 180 days (maximum 6 months per entry) | About 960 yuan (visa fee 100 Canadian dollars + biometric fee 85 Canadian dollars, totaling 185 Canadian dollars) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html |
| Mexico | North America | Business visa (visitor visa, short-term non-labor business activities) | Embassy application (visa-free with valid multi-entry US/CA/JP/UK/Schengen visa) | 180 days (verified by the Mexican Immigration Bureau upon entry) | About 350 yuan (consular fee is about 48 US dollars, based on the exchange rate of the embassy on the day, cash only) | Low | 2026-08 | https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/china/ |
| Brazil | South America | Short-term visa-free entry (the original business visa VITEM II is still applicable for long-term/labor purposes) | Visa-free (from May 11, 2026, business stays ≤ 30 days) | 30 days (no extension) | 0 yuan (visa-free); if you apply for an electronic/consular visa, it will cost about US$80-93 (about 580-670 yuan) | Low | 2026-08 | https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/consulado-toquio/english/news/new-visa-rules-for-chinese-citizens |
| Argentina | South America | Business visa (10 years multiple times); those holding a valid US visa can enter without a visa/AVE | Visa-free (with valid US visa) or Embassy application | Business visa is 90 days each time; visa-free entry with US visa is up to 30 days | A business visa costs about 1,440 yuan (US$200); an AVE electronic travel permit costs about US$200 (third-party sources say it will rise to US$400 in 2025, please refer to the official website of the Immigration Bureau) | Low | 2026-08 | https://echin.cancilleria.gov.ar/zh-hans/node/31736 |
| Germany | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | About 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee about 157-271 yuan | Medium | 2026-08 | https://china.diplo.de/cn-zh-cn |
| France | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | About 700 yuan (90 euros) + China-Chile visa service fee (about 200-300 yuan) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/oz_652287/fg_653219/rjjl_653229 |
| Italy | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | Approximately 753 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee 78 yuan | Medium | 2026-08 | https://ambpechino.esteri.it/zh/ |
| Spain | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | About 700 yuan (90 euros) + BLS service fee (extra) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://web.blscn.cn |
| Netherlands | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | About 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS/TLS service fee (about 175 yuan, subject to the announcement of the visa center) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cn.tlscontact.com |
| Switzerland | Western Europe | Schengen Business Visa Category C (business visit or short-term business training, stay ≤90 days) | Embassy application | No more than 90 days in every 180 days | 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee 175 yuan | Medium | 2026-08 | https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/china/beijing/chinese/ |
| United Kingdom | Other Europe | Standard Visitor Visa (Business) | Embassy application | The maximum stay for a single stay is 6 months; the cumulative stay for a long-term multiple visa shall not exceed 180 days every 12 months. | A six-month visa costs £135 (approximately RMB 1,250); a two-year visa is approximately £506 (approximately RMB 4,650), a five-year visa is £903, and a ten-year visa is £1,128 (rates starting from April 8, 2026) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://www.gov.uk/visit-uk-holiday-family-friends |
| Russia | Other Europe | Business Visa (Chinese citizens can enter the country without a visa during the visa-free policy period) / Business Visa | Visa-free | A visa-free single stay shall not exceed 30 days; a business visa shall have a maximum stay of 90 days; a one-year multiple visa shall not exceed a cumulative stay of 90 days every 180 days; an electronic visa shall not stay for more than 16 days | 0 yuan during the visa-free period; business sticker visa is about 1,750 yuan (single in 90 days), 1,950 yuan (twice in 90 days), 2,550-2,950 yuan (multiple times in 1 year), and an additional 400-600 yuan is added for expediting; electronic signing is US$52 | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/gyls/lsgz/fwxx/202512/t20251215_11772556.shtml |
| Japan | East Asia | Short-term business visa (short stay) | Embassy application | 90 days (single stay, 15 days or 30 days can also be approved) | The consulate visa fee is 145 yuan for a single visit and 285 yuan for multiple visits (standard starting from April 2025); the agency service fee is approximately 200-800 yuan in addition. | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/rb_647322/rjjl_647332/ |
| South Korea | East Asia | Short-term business visa (C-3-4) | Embassy application | 90 days (C-3-4 visa stay period) | About 260 yuan (short-term visa consulate fee); agency service fee is additional | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/hg_646516/rjjl_646526/ |
| Singapore | Southeast Asia | Visa exemption (mutual visa exemption agreement) | Visa-free | 30 days visa-free | Visa-free and free | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/xjp_647942/rjjl_647952 |
| Malaysia | Southeast Asia | Visa exemption (mutual visa exemption agreement) | Visa-free | 30-day visa exemption (accumulative stay shall not exceed 90 days in every 180 days) | Visa-free and free | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/mlxy_647012/rjjl_647022/ |
| Thailand | Southeast Asia | Visa exemption (China-Thailand Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement + Thailand’s unilateral visa exemption policy) | Visa-free | 60-day visa exemption (the Thai cabinet approved the adjustment to 30 days in July 2026, and it will officially take effect 15 days after the announcement of the political constitution. It has not yet taken effect as of August 2026, and is currently still based on 60 days) | Visa-free and free | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/tg_647570/rjjl_647580 |
| Indonesia | Southeast Asia | Business Visitor Visa C211 (formerly B211A, electronic visa e-Visa) | e-Visa | 60 days (can be extended 2 times, each time for 60 days, with a maximum total of 180 days) | The government fee is approximately IDR 1.5 million (approximately RMB 680); each extension is approximately IDR 2.8 million (approximately RMB 1,270). | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/ydnxy_648376/rjjl_648386/ |
| Vietnam | Southeast Asia | Business visa DN (DN1/DN2, electronic visa e-Visa) | e-Visa | 90 days | Official fee: US$25 (approximately RMB 180) for single entry, US$50 (approximately RMB 360) for multiple entries; the fee for long-term DN visa issued through the embassy or consulate is additional. | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/yn_648500/rjjl_648510/ |
| Philippines | Southeast Asia | Business visa 9(a)-1 (temporary visitor visa business class) / electronic visa eVisa / 14 days visa-free | Visa-free / e-Visa / Embassy | Visa-free/eVisa up to 14 days; 9(a)-1 sticker visa for a single stay of 30 days or 59 days | The 9(a)-1 visa fee is about 380 yuan/person (an additional service fee is charged for VFS submission); the eVisa fee is subject to the VFS official website; the 14-day visa exemption is free of charge | Low | 2026-08 | https://ph.china-embassy.gov.cn/lsfw/202601/t20260122_11843596.htm |
| Australia | Oceania | Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor Stream Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor Stream | e-Visa | 3 months (single stay, individual cases can be relaxed to 12 months) | AUD 250, approximately RMB 1,150 (standard for fiscal year 2025-2026) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600 |
| New Zealand | Oceania | Business Visitor Visa (auxiliary channel: Electronic Travel Authorization NZeTA) | e-Visa | 3 months (the total period shall not exceed 3 months in any 12 months) | Visa fee NZD 341, approximately RMB 1,480; NZeTA channel only NZD 17 (App)/23 (webpage) + IVL tourist tax NZD 100, totaling approximately RMB 520-550 | Medium | 2026-08 | https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/business-visitors-visa/ |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | Middle East | Visa-free entry (China-UAE Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement)/Business Visa Business Visa (14/30/60-day electronic visa) | Visa-free (30 days); e-Visa for longer stays | Visa-free for 30 days (can be extended for 30 days for a fee, AED 600); business electronic visa can be extended for up to 60 days | Visa-free 0 yuan; business electronic visa AED 350-700 (approximately RMB 680-1360), 60-day period AED 720-1100; extension AED 600 | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/alq_645712/ |
| Saudi Arabia | Middle East | Business visit visa (business category of government visit visa, separate electronic visa) | Embassy application (documents via embassy/VFS; e-visa letter issued since Oct 2023, no sticker) | Subject to approval by the embassy (usually 30-90 days for a single transaction) | The visa fee is subject to the Saudi Embassy in China. The separate electronic signature and service fees total about RMB 600-1,000 (for travel electronic visas, please refer to SAR 300 + insurance, which starts at about RMB 600) | Medium | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/stalb_647384/rjjl_647394/ |
| Israel | Middle East | B/2 Visitor Visa (Business Class) | Embassy application (via Israeli embassy/VFS in China; no visa-free or on-arrival option) | Subject to approval by the embassy, the maximum period shall not exceed 90 days (B/2 cannot be employed) | The embassy visa fee is approximately RMB 197 + the visa center service fee is RMB 100, totaling approximately RMB 297 (prepaid by China CITIC Bank) | Low | 2026-08 | https://il.china-embassy.gov.cn/ |
| Turkey (Türkiye) | Middle East | Visa-free entry (from January 2, 2026)/e-Visa (Business Alternate Channel) | Visa-free (tourism/transit only); e-Visa recommended for business | Visa-free per visit / cumulative 90 days within any 180-day period; a single e-signature stay can last up to 30 days | 0 yuan for visa exemption (previously, the electronic signature fee was about 60 US dollars/about 500 yuan, and it will be waived after the visa exemption); if you need to electronically sign, it is 60 US dollars (about 430 yuan) | Low | 2026-08 | https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa |
| India | South Asia | e-B-4 Electronic Production Investment Business Visa (newly established for China)/Regular Business Visa (paper sticker) | e-Visa | e-B-4 can last up to 6 months; regular business visa cannot exceed 180 days each time | Business electronic signing costs 80 USD (approximately 580 RMB); regular embassy business signing costs 340-680 RMB, subject to the actual charges of the embassy/official website | Medium | 2026-08 | https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html |
| South Africa | Africa | Visitor's Visa - Business Trip | Embassy application | Maximum time limit is 90 days | The short-term visa fee is about 172 yuan + the VFS service fee is about 343 yuan, the total starting from about 515 yuan (otherwise it is said that the visa fee is about 620 yuan, subject to the current announcement of VFS); 6-month multiple times are about 2181 yuan, 12-month multiple times are about 2331 yuan | Medium | 2026-08 | https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/south-africa/china/ |
| Egypt | Africa | Business visa (sticker visa from the embassy in China)/electronic visa e-Visa | e-Visa / Visa on arrival / Embassy | Maximum single entry is 30 days | Embassy visa: single entry 530 yuan/person, multiple entry 740 yuan/person; electronic visa 25 US dollars (multiple times about 60-65 US dollars); visa on arrival 25 US dollars | Low | 2026-08 | https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/fz_648564/aj_648628/ |
Full record
United States — B-1/B-2 Business/Visitor Visa
- Region
- North America
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- The waiting time for an interview appointment is 2 weeks to several months (depending on the consular area). The visa will be issued 3-7 working days after the interview is passed; in case of administrative review, it will take 2-8 weeks
- Validity
- Multiple trips up to 10 years (issued on a case-by-case basis)
- Maximum stay
- 180 days (verified by CBP officer upon entry)
- Fee
- About 1,330 yuan (MRV fee of 185 US dollars, non-refundable)
- Invitation letter
- It is recommended to provide (the invitation letter from the US is not mandatory but strongly recommended, and the content of the visit and the cost borne must be specified)
- Filing channel
- The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in China (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Shenyang) make online appointments for visa interviews; those who meet the conditions can renew their visas through CITIC Bank/interview-free agency
- Required documents
- Passport (valid for more than 6 months), DS-160 confirmation page, 51mm ID photo with white background, employment certificate, Chinese business license, American invitation letter, business itinerary, bank statements for the past 3-6 months, interview appointment form
- Risk notes
- Applicants must be interviewed in person and have their fingerprints collected; 10-year B1/B2 visa holders must register for EVUS in advance. (the official source text is truncated at this point; we have not completed it)
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html
Canada — Visitor Visa/Temporary Resident Visa (TRV, Business)
- Region
- North America
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- It takes about 26 days to apply within China (IRCC March 2026 data), usually 2-8 weeks, refer to the official website processing time tool
- Validity
- Multiple trips up to 10 years (until the expiration date of passport or biometric information, determined by the visa officer)
- Maximum stay
- 180 days (maximum 6 months per entry)
- Fee
- About 960 yuan (visa fee 100 Canadian dollars + biometric fee 85 Canadian dollars, totaling 185 Canadian dollars)
- Invitation letter
- Required (invitation letter from Canadian company/institution, indicating the purpose and itinerary of the visit)
- Filing channel
- IRCC official website online application (IRCC Portal) + nationwide VFS visa center fingerprint recording
- Required documents
- Passport, invitation letter, employment certificate and leave letter, business license, bank statements for the past 6 months, itinerary, photos (fill in IMM5257 and other forms online)
- Risk notes
- eTA is not applicable to Chinese passport holders, who must apply for a TRV sticker visa; usually there is no interview, and materials must be applied online in person
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html
Mexico — Business visa (visitor visa, short-term non-labor business activities)
- Region
- North America
- Entry mode
- Embassy application (visa-free with valid multi-entry US/CA/JP/UK/Schengen visa)
- Processing time
- The result will be informed on the day of the interview, and it will take about 5-10 working days for the passport to be returned; the appointment queuing period is long, so it is recommended to make an appointment at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Validity
- The embassy issues the issue based on the situation, usually multiple entries within 1-3 months (cases vary greatly)
- Maximum stay
- 180 days (verified by the Mexican Immigration Bureau upon entry)
- Fee
- About 350 yuan (consular fee is about 48 US dollars, based on the exchange rate of the embassy on the day, cash only)
- Invitation letter
- Required (original invitation letter from Mexican company, must include Mexican registration number RFC, activity content, expense commitment and return guarantee)
- Filing channel
- The Embassy of Mexico in China (Beijing) and the Consulate General in Shanghai and Guangzhou, make an appointment in person for an interview
- Required documents
- Passport, 39x31mm photo with white background, ID card, dispatch letter in English/certificate of employment (indicate position, joining time, monthly salary), bank statements in the past 3-6 months (monthly balance is about 30,000 yuan or more), original invitation letter from Mexico, identity certificate of the inviter, copy of business license, air ticket order
- Risk notes
- Applicants must be interviewed and fingerprints collected in person, and visa fees and evidence collection must be handled in person; there are hard thresholds for monthly salary and bank balance. (the official source text is truncated at this point; we have not completed it)
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/china/
Brazil — Short-term visa-free entry (the original business visa VITEM II is still applicable for long-term/labor purposes)
- Region
- South America
- Entry mode
- Visa-free (from May 11, 2026, business stays ≤ 30 days)
- Processing time
- Immediate entry without visa; if a visa is required, it takes about 10 working days to apply online via e-Consular
- Validity
- The visa-free policy is valid until December 31, 2026; the cumulative stay within 12 months shall not exceed 30 days, and multiple entries are allowed
- Maximum stay
- 30 days (no extension)
- Fee
- 0 yuan (visa-free); if you apply for an electronic/consular visa, it will cost about US$80-93 (about 580-670 yuan)
- Invitation letter
- Visa-free entry is not compulsory, but it is recommended to bring a business invitation letter and itinerary for reference; when applying for a visa, an invitation letter is required
- Filing channel
- Direct entry without visa; apply for visa online through the e-Consular system of the Brazilian Embassy in China for overdue or labor purposes
- Required documents
- Visa exemption only requires: ordinary passport valid for more than 6 months, return air ticket, accommodation/itinerary, proof of funds, proof of business contacts (recommended to bring)
- Risk notes
- Major policy changes: The Brazilian government announced on May 7, 2026 that as a reciprocal response to China’s unilateral visa exemption, it would
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.gov.br/mre/pt-br/consulado-toquio/english/news/new-visa-rules-for-chinese-citizens
Argentina — Business visa (10 years multiple times); those holding a valid US visa can enter without a visa/AVE
- Region
- South America
- Entry mode
- Visa-free (with valid US visa) or Embassy application
- Processing time
- Paper visas require an email appointment at least 1 month in advance, and approval takes about 2-4 weeks (longer in peak season); AVE electronic permits take about 3-7 working days
- Validity
- Business visa for multiple entries up to 10 years (subject to the embassy’s issuance)
- Maximum stay
- Business visa is 90 days each time; visa-free entry with US visa is up to 30 days
- Fee
- A business visa costs about 1,440 yuan (US$200); an AVE electronic travel permit costs about US$200 (third-party sources say it will rise to US$400 in 2025, please refer to the official website of the Immigration Bureau)
- Invitation letter
- It is required when applying for a business visa (the invitation letter must contain the RENURE registration number of the Argentine Immigration Bureau and the signature of the authorized person); it is recommended to bring proof of business contacts when entering the United States visa-free.
- Filing channel
- Argentine Embassy in China (Beijing) and Consulate General in Shanghai and Guangzhou (email appointment for interview); AVE applies online on the official website of the Argentine Immigration Bureau migraciones.gob.ar
- Required documents
- Passport, Spanish invitation letter (including RENURE registration number), dispatch letter, employment certificate, business license, bank statement, itinerary, photos; some consular areas require notarization/double authentication
- Risk notes
- Major facilitation policy: Starting from July 22, 2025, citizens with ordinary Chinese passports holding a valid US visa of the same type can go to Afghanistan.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://echin.cancilleria.gov.ar/zh-hans/node/31736
Germany — Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- Approximately 15 calendar days (can be extended to 45 days)
- Validity
- Issued according to the applied itinerary; if you have a good Schengen record, you can get multiple returns for 1 year/multiple years
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- About 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee about 157-271 yuan
- Invitation letter
- Required, the original invitation letter from the German business partner (or clear scan + printout by email) must be on company letterhead, signed in person (electronic signatures are not accepted), and indicating the itinerary and expense responsibilities.
- Filing channel
- German Embassy and Consulates in China (five major consular districts: Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu/Shenyang) + VFS Global German Visa Center (15 cities across the country)
- Required documents
- Passport, Schengen application form, two white-background ID photos, employment certificate (with German/English translation), copy of business license, invitation letter from Germany, bank statement (last 3 months), proof of company's business flow or expense, medical insurance covering the entire Schengen journey of more than 30,000 euros, air ticket and hotel reservation, copy of household register
- Risk notes
- The consular areas are strictly divided according to the place of permanent residence, and cross-regional applications are not allowed; the first application must be present in person to have ten fingerprints taken (taken within 59 months)
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://china.diplo.de/cn-zh-cn
France — Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- Approximately 15 calendar days (can be extended to 45 days individually)
- Validity
- Issued on application; those with good records can be granted 1 year/multiple times. France is relatively loose on multiple visas.
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- About 700 yuan (90 euros) + China-Chile visa service fee (about 200-300 yuan)
- Invitation letter
- If required, a business invitation letter (Lettre d'Invitation Professionnelle) issued by the French inviting party is recommended to include the company's SIRET registration number, purpose of visit, date and cost commitment.
- Filing channel
- French Embassy and Consulate in China + China-Chile Visa (TLScontact) French Visa Acceptance Center (15 cities across the country), fill out the form online through the France-Visas official website
- Required documents
- Passport, France-Visas online application form, white background ID photo, French invitation letter, Chinese employment certificate and dispatch letter, business license, bank statements in the past 3-6 months, round-trip air ticket booking form, hotel order, medical insurance covering the entire Schengen journey of more than 30,000 euros, and a copy of the household registration book
- Risk notes
- You must register on the France-Visas official website and fill in the form online to make an appointment; you must be present in person for the first time or if your fingerprints have expired.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/oz_652287/fg_653219/rjjl_653229
Italy — Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- About 15 calendar days (at least 5 working days after fingerprint collection, visa issuance, can be extended to 45 days)
- Validity
- Issued upon application, the embassy or consulate will determine the validity period and number of entries based on the materials; generally 1-3 months, longer if the record is good
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- Approximately 753 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee 78 yuan
- Invitation letter
- Required, original Italian invitation letter (company letterhead, signature and seal, indicating travel date and cost commitment), along with the inviting company's Chamber of Commerce Registration Certificate (C.C.I.A.A.) within the past 3 months and the signatory's identity certificate
- Filing channel
- Italian Embassy and Consulate in China + VFS Global Italian Visa Application Center (four major consular districts in Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chongqing, accepted in multiple cities)
- Required documents
- Passport, Schengen application form (with Chinese signature in English/Italian), ID photo with white background, original invitation letter and schedule from Italy, CCIAA Chamber of Commerce registration certificate, identity certificate of the signatory, English dispatch letter from China and proof of expense, business license, air ticket order, hotel order, overseas medical insurance of more than 30,000 euros, copy of household register
- Risk notes
- The four major consular districts are strictly divided according to the place of residence and cannot cross districts; the invitation letter must comply with the business invitation letter template format; those who participate in international conferences
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://ambpechino.esteri.it/zh/
Spain — Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- Approximately 15 calendar days (can be extended to 45 days; it is recommended to reserve more than 3 weeks in peak season)
- Validity
- The embassy will issue the ticket based on the itinerary, up to 90 days; if the record is good, you can get multiple round trips.
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- About 700 yuan (90 euros) + BLS service fee (extra)
- Invitation letter
- Required, original Spanish invitation letter (scanned copies are not accepted), must contain the inviting party’s tax number NIF, signature of the person in charge in blue ink, purpose of visit, schedule and expense commitment
- Filing channel
- Spanish Embassy and Consulate in China + BLS International Spanish Visa Application Center (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu consular district, Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Shenzhen/Hangzhou/Nanjing/Fuzhou/Chengdu/Xi’an/Wuhan/Jinan/Shenyang and other centers)
- Required documents
- Passport, Schengen application form filled in English (signed in Chinese), questionnaire, statement of knowledge, ID photo with white background, original Spanish invitation letter, English employment certificate and dispatch letter, copy of business license and English translation, company's public and personal statements, round-trip air ticket booking form, hotel order, English insurance policy of more than 30,000 euros, copy of household register, residence permit and social security records are required for those who cross consular districts
- Risk notes
- Consular districts are divided according to household registration or place of residence + social security. Residence permit and social security for the past two years are required for crossing districts. The original invitation letter must be mailed and scanned.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://web.blscn.cn
Netherlands — Schengen Business Visa Category C (short stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- The standard time is about 15 calendar days, but the Dutch embassy and consulate often takes 20-30 days to process, and it can be extended to 45 days in some cases. It is recommended to submit as early as possible.
- Validity
- Issued upon application; the Netherlands is relatively loose in issuing multiple-entry visas, with a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 5 years (depending on the record)
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- About 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS/TLS service fee (about 175 yuan, subject to the announcement of the visa center)
- Invitation letter
- If required, original invitation letter and schedule from the Dutch inviting party (the purpose of a short-term visit cannot be "performing official duties"), and the Chinese side must issue a dispatch letter and proof of expenses.
- Filing channel
- Netherlands Embassy and Consulate in China + Authorized Visa Application Center (TLScontact China-Chile Visa cn.tlscontact.com is the main one, some cities use VFS/TLS channels, please refer to the official website of the embassy for guidance)
- Required documents
- Passport (color copy of the first page), Schengen application form, 2 ID photos with white background (lips closed and teeth not shown), original invitation letter and schedule from the Netherlands, dispatch letter, proof of expenses, Schengen medical insurance of more than 30,000 euros, full flight ticket order, full hotel order, employment certificate and business license, bank statement
- Risk notes
- Materials must be printed on one side of A4 and must not be stapled (staples/paperclips are prohibited); those who are seeking a Schengen visa for the first time or who do not have a previous Schengen visa page must click
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cn.tlscontact.com
Switzerland — Schengen Business Visa Category C (business visit or short-term business training, stay ≤90 days)
- Region
- Western Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- About 15 calendar days (5-15 working days, complex cases may be extended to 30-45 days)
- Validity
- The embassy will make the decision based on the application; the first time is mostly a single/short-term visa based on the itinerary, and multiple visas can be obtained if the record is good.
- Maximum stay
- No more than 90 days in every 180 days
- Fee
- 700 yuan (90 euros) + VFS service fee 175 yuan
- Invitation letter
- Required, Swiss invitation letter (issued according to the official invitation letter instructions of the Swiss Visa Center, including the purpose of visit, date, cost commitment, signature and seal)
- Filing channel
- Swiss Embassy and Consulates in China (Visa System of the Swiss Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, swiss-visa.ch) + VFS Global Swiss Visa Application Center (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou and multiple cities)
- Required documents
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months after departure), Schengen application form (filled in English/Swiss official language, signature consistent with passport), white background ID photo (3.5×4.0cm), Swiss invitation letter, English employment certificate (stamped and signed), copy of business license and stamp, bank statement (suggested sufficient balance), round-trip air ticket reservation, hotel order, medical insurance covering the entire Schengen journey of more than 30,000 euros, copy of household register, personal information protection consent letter
- Risk notes
- Switzerland is not in the EU but belongs to the Schengen area. The visa rules are the same as those in Schengen. You must go to VFS to have your ten fingerprints recorded for the first time or when your fingerprints have expired.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/switzerland/china/beijing/chinese/
United Kingdom — Standard Visitor Visa (Business)
- Region
- Other Europe
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- About 3 weeks (15 working days), up to 6 weeks during peak periods; expedited service available for a fee (priority service + £500, about 5 working days to issue)
- Validity
- 6 months single entry; optional 2/5/10-year multiple-entry visas (GBP 506/903/1128 respectively)
- Maximum stay
- The maximum stay for a single stay is 6 months; the cumulative stay for a long-term multiple visa shall not exceed 180 days every 12 months.
- Fee
- A six-month visa costs £135 (approximately RMB 1,250); a two-year visa is approximately £506 (approximately RMB 4,650), a five-year visa is £903, and a ten-year visa is £1,128 (rates starting from April 8, 2026)
- Invitation letter
- It is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended to provide an invitation letter from the British side (official letterhead, indicating the purpose of visit, date, and cost commitment) to support the application.
- Filing channel
- UK Visa and Immigration Service (UKVI) official website GOV.UK online application + VFS Global visa center (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, etc.) to collect biometric information
- Required documents
- Valid passport, online application form (GOV.UK), invitation letter from the UK, proof of employment from the Chinese employer (position, salary, leave), business license, bank statements for the past 3-6 months, itinerary and accommodation certificate, employment/income supporting materials
- Risk notes
- Chinese passport is a required country for visa, and there is no ETA visa-free channel; you must go to the visa center in person to take fingerprints and photos; 20
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.gov.uk/visit-uk-holiday-family-friends
Russia — Business Visa (Chinese citizens can enter the country without a visa during the visa-free policy period) / Business Visa
- Region
- Other Europe
- Entry mode
- Visa-free
- Processing time
- Visa-free; normal business sticker visa takes about 10-13 working days, expedited 5-7 working days; unified electronic signing takes 4 working days
- Validity
- The visa-free policy is valid until September 14, 2026; the business visa is available for 90 days for single/twice and 1 year/3 years for multiple times; the electronic self-signing is valid for 60 days upon initiation
- Maximum stay
- A visa-free single stay shall not exceed 30 days; a business visa shall have a maximum stay of 90 days; a one-year multiple visa shall not exceed a cumulative stay of 90 days every 180 days; an electronic visa shall not stay for more than 16 days
- Fee
- 0 yuan during the visa-free period; business sticker visa is about 1,750 yuan (single in 90 days), 1,950 yuan (twice in 90 days), 2,550-2,950 yuan (multiple times in 1 year), and an additional 400-600 yuan is added for expediting; electronic signing is US$52
- Invitation letter
- No invitation letter is required during the visa-free period; when applying for a business sticker visa, you must provide a Russian invitation letter (original issued by the Russian Ministry of Interior/Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a 'yellow card' or a telex number of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs), which must contain the invitee's information, purpose of visit, period of stay, number of entries, etc.
- Filing channel
- Fill out the form online at the official website of the Russian Embassy in China/visa website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at visa.kdmid.ru + submit it at the visa centers in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Harbin, and Hong Kong (regardless of consular district, can be processed at the nearest location)
- Required documents
- Original passport (valid for more than 6 months from the date of return, 2 blank pages), 2 color photos with white background (3.5×4.5cm), invitation letter from Russia, proof of employment of the Chinese unit (with official seal), copy of business license, copy of ID card, online application form on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at visa.kdmid.ru with Chinese signature
- Risk notes
- Major policies: According to the presidential decree signed by the Russian President on December 1, 2025, China will
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/gyls/lsgz/fwxx/202512/t20251215_11772556.shtml
Japan — Short-term business visa (short stay)
- Region
- East Asia
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- About 5 working days (consulate review, excluding material preparation time)
- Validity
- Single-entry visa is valid for 3 months; multiple-entry visa for 3 years; multiple-entry visa for 5 years
- Maximum stay
- 90 days (single stay, 15 days or 30 days can also be approved)
- Fee
- The consulate visa fee is 145 yuan for a single visit and 285 yuan for multiple visits (standard starting from April 2025); the agency service fee is approximately 200-800 yuan in addition.
- Invitation letter
- Yes, a letter of reason for recruitment from the Japanese side, a personal guarantee letter, a stay schedule, a copy of the legal person registration book, etc.
- Filing channel
- The designated agency of the Japanese Embassy and Consulates in China, Japan Visa Application Center (JVAC)
- Required documents
- Passport (more than 6 months old), visa application form, ID photo, proof of employment, copy of business license, copy of household registration book, copy of ID card, letter of reason for recruitment from Japan, certificate of security, stay schedule, Japanese legal person registration book or company four-season report
- Risk notes
- Japan does not exempt ordinary Chinese passports from visa exemption, and you need to apply for a visa in advance; starting from November 2024, China will unilaterally issue a visa to Japan
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/rb_647322/rjjl_647332/
South Korea — Short-term business visa (C-3-4)
- Region
- East Asia
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- 5-7 working days
- Validity
- Single trip for 3 months; multiple trips within 1 year (required to have visited South Korea with a Korean visa); multiple trips within 3 years
- Maximum stay
- 90 days (C-3-4 visa stay period)
- Fee
- About 260 yuan (short-term visa consulate fee); agency service fee is additional
- Invitation letter
- Yes, an invitation letter from South Korea (including the reason for the invitation and a letter of guarantee of return), business registration certificate, seal certificate, tax payment certificate details, and trade performance certificate are required.
- Filing channel
- Korean Embassy/Consulate in China, Korean Visa Portal (visa.go.kr)
- Required documents
- Passport, electronic visa application form (machine-printed), white background ID photo (3.5×4.5cm), copy of ID card, Korean invitation letter, Korean business operator registration certificate or unique number certificate copy, seal certificate, Korean tax payment certificate details, trade performance certification materials (contract, L/C, import and export declaration form, etc.), employment certificate, copy of Chinese business license, social security payment voucher or tax payment certificate
- Risk notes
- Ordinary passports are not exempt from visa; individuals in Jeju Island are exempted from visa for 30 days (only for activities within the island and cannot travel to other cities); group tourists
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/hg_646516/rjjl_646526/
Singapore — Visa exemption (mutual visa exemption agreement)
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- Visa-free
- Processing time
- No visa required
- Validity
- Visa exemption (subject to the e-Pass issued upon entry)
- Maximum stay
- 30 days visa-free
- Fee
- Visa-free and free
- Invitation letter
- No (it is recommended to bring proof of business contacts for business activities for reference)
- Filing channel
- No visa is required; fill in the SG Arrival Card online within 3 days before entry (eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard)
- Required documents
- Valid passport (more than 6 months old), SG Arrival Card, round-trip air ticket, proof of accommodation, proof of funds
- Risk notes
- The China-Singapore Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement will officially take effect from February 9, 2024; a single stay shall not exceed 30 days, and is applicable to tourism,
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/xjp_647942/rjjl_647952
Malaysia — Visa exemption (mutual visa exemption agreement)
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- Visa-free
- Processing time
- No visa required
- Validity
- Visa-free
- Maximum stay
- 30-day visa exemption (accumulative stay shall not exceed 90 days in every 180 days)
- Fee
- Visa-free and free
- Invitation letter
- no
- Filing channel
- No visa is required; fill in the MDAC (imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main) within 3 days before entry; self-service customs clearance (AUTOGATE) is available at Kuala Lumpur Airport
- Required documents
- Valid passport (more than 6 months old), Malaysian Electronic Arrival Card (MDAC), round-trip air tickets, hotel orders, and proof of funds exceeding US$1,000
- Risk notes
- The formal mutual visa exemption agreement will take effect on July 17, 2025. (the official source text is truncated at this point; we have not completed it)
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/mlxy_647012/rjjl_647022/
Thailand — Visa exemption (China-Thailand Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement + Thailand’s unilateral visa exemption policy)
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- Visa-free
- Processing time
- No visa required
- Validity
- Visa-free
- Maximum stay
- 60-day visa exemption (the Thai cabinet approved the adjustment to 30 days in July 2026, and it will officially take effect 15 days after the announcement of the political constitution. It has not yet taken effect as of August 2026, and is currently still based on 60 days)
- Fee
- Visa-free and free
- Invitation letter
- no
- Filing channel
- No visa required; fill in TDAC online (immigration.go.th) 3 days before entry
- Required documents
- Valid passport (more than 6 months old), Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), round-trip air ticket, proof of accommodation, proof of funds (10,000 baht for individuals/20,000 baht for families)
- Risk notes
- The China-Thailand Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement will take effect on March 1, 2024 (30 days on a bilateral basis); Thailand on July 15, 2024
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/tg_647570/rjjl_647580
Indonesia — Business Visitor Visa C211 (formerly B211A, electronic visa e-Visa)
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- e-Visa
- Processing time
- 5-10 working days
- Validity
- Must enter the country within 90 days after the electronic visa is issued
- Maximum stay
- 60 days (can be extended 2 times, each time for 60 days, with a maximum total of 180 days)
- Fee
- The government fee is approximately IDR 1.5 million (approximately RMB 680); each extension is approximately IDR 2.8 million (approximately RMB 1,270).
- Invitation letter
- Yes, a letter of guarantee or invitation from the Indonesian party (company/institution) and the business license (NIB) of the inviting party are required
- Filing channel
- Apply online at the official website of the Indonesian Immigration Service: evisa.imigrasi.go.id (can be submitted by the Indonesian inviting party), or the Indonesian embassy or consulate in China
- Required documents
- Original passport (valid for more than 6 months, 2 blank pages), scanned copy of passport information page, ID photo with red/white background, Indonesian invitation letter and inviting party's business license NIB, Chinese company's guarantee letter, bank statements in the past three months (the balance is recommended to be more than 2,000 US dollars), round-trip air ticket order, accommodation certificate
- Risk notes
- Important: The Chinese Consulate General in Surabaya reminds in February 2026 that Indonesian visa on arrival. (the official source text is truncated at this point; we have not completed it)
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/ydnxy_648376/rjjl_648386/
Vietnam — Business visa DN (DN1/DN2, electronic visa e-Visa)
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- e-Visa
- Processing time
- 3-5 working days (the official standard is 3 working days, up to 7 days during peak periods; it can be expedited to 1-2 working days through an agent)
- Validity
- Maximum 90 days (single or multiple entries optional)
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Fee
- Official fee: US$25 (approximately RMB 180) for single entry, US$50 (approximately RMB 360) for multiple entries; the fee for long-term DN visa issued through the embassy or consulate is additional.
- Invitation letter
- There is no need to upload an invitation letter when applying for an e-visa, but the China Consular Service Network clearly reminds you that when going to Vietnam to engage in business activities, you must have an invitation letter from the Vietnamese host unit (you may be asked to present it during entry and inspection); when applying for a long-term DN visa through the embassy or consulate, you must provide a Vietnamese guarantee letter
- Filing channel
- The official e-visa website of the Vietnam Immigration Bureau is evisa.immigration.gov.vn (fully online, fully open to Chinese passports); long-term business visas are processed through the Vietnamese embassy and consulates in China (the Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate General in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanning, and Kunming)
- Required documents
- Passport (valid for more than 6 months, with blank pages) clear scan of the information page, electronic version of the 4x6cm ID photo with white background in the past 6 months, online application form (fill in the port of entry, accommodation address in Vietnam and business contact unit), international credit card online payment
- Risk notes
- From August 15, 2023, Vietnam e-visa will be open to citizens of all countries and regions, including China, and supports 9
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/yn_648500/rjjl_648510/
Philippines — Business visa 9(a)-1 (temporary visitor visa business class) / electronic visa eVisa / 14 days visa-free
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Entry mode
- Visa-free / e-Visa / Embassy
- Processing time
- Visa exemption is instant; eVisa takes about 4 working days; 9(a)-1 sticker signing takes 6 working days (from the time VFS is submitted to the embassy and consulate, some consular areas require interviews)
- Validity
- 9(a)-1 visa is generally valid for 3 months (single or multiple); eVisa single entry, 14-day stay; visa-free stay for 14 days
- Maximum stay
- Visa-free/eVisa up to 14 days; 9(a)-1 sticker visa for a single stay of 30 days or 59 days
- Fee
- The 9(a)-1 visa fee is about 380 yuan/person (an additional service fee is charged for VFS submission); the eVisa fee is subject to the VFS official website; the 14-day visa exemption is free of charge
- Invitation letter
- 9(a)-1 sticker visa must provide an invitation letter notarized locally in the Philippines (including funding guarantee terms, valid within 90 days from the notarization date), and also requires the inviting party’s company registration certificate (SEC), business license, passport of the signer, etc.; 14-day visa exemption and eVisa do not require an invitation letter
- Filing channel
- Electronic visa: visa.vfsglobal.com/chn/en/phl (VFS Global platform, starting from November 2025); sticker visa: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Fuzhou, Chongqing, Hong Kong Philippine Visa Application Center (VFS); starting from 2026, individual applications must generally be submitted through authorized travel agencies/visa centers
- Required documents
- Passport (valid for more than 6 months beyond the period of stay, with 2 blank pages), 2-inch white background ID photo, online visa application form (visa.gov.ph), notarized invitation letter from the Philippines, business license and articles of association of the inviting company, English employment certificate from the Chinese unit (head paper, indicating job salary), copy of the Chinese business license (with QR code) and English translation, social security payment record and English translation, round-trip air ticket order, hotel order
- Risk notes
- Major good news: Starting from January 16, 2026, the Philippines will implement regulations for Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports for tourism and business purposes.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://ph.china-embassy.gov.cn/lsfw/202601/t20260122_11843596.htm
Australia — Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor Stream Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor Stream
- Region
- Oceania
- Entry mode
- e-Visa
- Processing time
- About 2-3 weeks (the official tool can check the real-time progress; the peak period may be extended, it is recommended to apply 4-6 weeks in advance)
- Validity
- Depends on the approval, usually multiple trips within a year (cases can be approved for a maximum stay of 12 months)
- Maximum stay
- 3 months (single stay, individual cases can be relaxed to 12 months)
- Fee
- AUD 250, approximately RMB 1,150 (standard for fiscal year 2025-2026)
- Invitation letter
- If necessary, a scanned copy of the invitation letter from Australia and a dispatch letter in English from China must be provided.
- Filing channel
- ImmiAccount online application on the official website of the Australian Immigration Service (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au); some applicants need to go to the Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu Australian Visa Center to collect biometric information (fingerprints)
- Required documents
- Color scanned copy of passport (valid for more than 6 months), scanned copy of ID card, invitation letter from Australia, English dispatch letter and business license from China, air ticket reservation form, English itinerary, proof of funds (bank statements in the past 6 months), electronic version of ID photo with white background
- Risk notes
- The entire process is paperless and online. No visa will be affixed after the visa is issued. You need to print a letter of approval to travel with your passport. It is strictly prohibited to work in Australia or provide paid services.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600
New Zealand — Business Visitor Visa (auxiliary channel: Electronic Travel Authorization NZeTA)
- Region
- Oceania
- Entry mode
- e-Visa
- Processing time
- Officially, 80% of applications are reviewed within 1 week; actual 7-15 working days (will be extended if investigation)
- Validity
- Multiple trips up to 18 months (case-by-case approval)
- Maximum stay
- 3 months (the total period shall not exceed 3 months in any 12 months)
- Fee
- Visa fee NZD 341, approximately RMB 1,480; NZeTA channel only NZD 17 (App)/23 (webpage) + IVL tourist tax NZD 100, totaling approximately RMB 520-550
- Invitation letter
- If necessary, an English invitation letter from the New Zealand inviting party/employer confirming the business purpose and an English dispatch letter from the Chinese side must be provided.
- Filing channel
- Apply online on the official website of the New Zealand Immigration Service (immigration.govt.nz); NZeTA applies through the official App or website
- Required documents
- Scanned copy of the first page of the passport, white background ID photos of the past 6 months (electronic version, strict specifications), English invitation letter from the New Zealand inviting party (indicate the purpose/date/cost commitment), English dispatch letter from the Chinese party (stamped by the company), proof of funds, and online application form
- Risk notes
- The Chinese passport is not a visa-free country, and regular business must apply for a business visitor visa; important new policies: starting from November 3, 2025
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/business-visitors-visa/
United Arab Emirates (UAE) — Visa-free entry (China-UAE Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement)/Business Visa Business Visa (14/30/60-day electronic visa)
- Region
- Middle East
- Entry mode
- Visa-free (30 days); e-Visa for longer stays
- Processing time
- Immediate entry without a visa; business electronic visa takes 3-5 working days (expedited is faster)
- Validity
- 30 days after visa-free entry; business electronic visa is divided into 14 days/30 days/60 days
- Maximum stay
- Visa-free for 30 days (can be extended for 30 days for a fee, AED 600); business electronic visa can be extended for up to 60 days
- Fee
- Visa-free 0 yuan; business electronic visa AED 350-700 (approximately RMB 680-1360), 60-day period AED 720-1100; extension AED 600
- Invitation letter
- Visa-free entry is not required; a business e-visa requires a UAE company guarantee and invitation letter (with business license attached)
- Filing channel
- You can enter the country directly with your passport without a visa; apply for a business electronic visa online through the official website of the ICP of the UAE Immigration Bureau (icp.gov.ae) or by the UAE guarantee company/authorized agent.
- Required documents
- Visa exemption only requires a passport valid for more than 6 months, a round-trip air ticket, and proof of accommodation/itinerary; a business e-visa also requires: an invitation letter from the UAE inviting company, the inviting party's business license (Trade License), a dispatch letter and business license from the Chinese company, a white background ID photo, and a scanned copy of the passport
- Risk notes
- Short-term business visits (meetings, negotiations, exhibitions) can directly enter the country without a visa for 30 days, which is the most commonly used channel; Islamic countries,
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/alq_645712/
Saudi Arabia — Business visit visa (business category of government visit visa, separate electronic visa)
- Region
- Middle East
- Entry mode
- Embassy application (documents via embassy/VFS; e-visa letter issued since Oct 2023, no sticker)
- Processing time
- 5-10 working days (approximately 5 working days through official channels, it is recommended to apply 2 weeks in advance; the approval of the return letter will take additional time)
- Validity
- Single visa or multiple times per year (multiple times per year requires the passport to be valid for more than 1 year)
- Maximum stay
- Subject to approval by the embassy (usually 30-90 days for a single transaction)
- Fee
- The visa fee is subject to the Saudi Embassy in China. The separate electronic signature and service fees total about RMB 600-1,000 (for travel electronic visas, please refer to SAR 300 + insurance, which starts at about RMB 600)
- Invitation letter
- Must, and requires an Alvin "return letter" (invitation letter with approval number) issued by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Chamber of Commerce. Engineers/technicians need a return letter starting with 700
- Filing channel
- Submit to the Saudi Embassy in China (Beijing) and the Consulate General in Guangzhou/Hong Kong, or the authorized visa center
- Required documents
- Original passport (single signature must be valid for more than 7 months), 2-inch color photo with white background, Arabic letter of return from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Chamber of Commerce (the position must be specific such as project manager), copy of the business license of the company invited by Saudi Arabia, commercial contract or detailed invitation letter from the Chinese company in Saudi Arabia, dispatch letter in English from China (stamped), copy of Chinese business license stamp, copy of labor contract, copy of ID card, applicant information form
- Risk notes
- Business visas are usually limited to high-level positions such as general manager/chairman/president, and the embassy may not accept ordinary positions; 2026
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/yz_645708/stalb_647384/rjjl_647394/
Israel — B/2 Visitor Visa (Business Class)
- Region
- Middle East
- Entry mode
- Embassy application (via Israeli embassy/VFS in China; no visa-free or on-arrival option)
- Processing time
- It takes about 5-15 working days after entering the embassy (the Beijing consular district agency channel shows that it takes about 19 working days, which is subject to the actual situation of the embassy)
- Validity
- Usually valid for 3 months, single entry (multiple entries are subject to consular discretion)
- Maximum stay
- Subject to approval by the embassy, the maximum period shall not exceed 90 days (B/2 cannot be employed)
- Fee
- The embassy visa fee is approximately RMB 197 + the visa center service fee is RMB 100, totaling approximately RMB 297 (prepaid by China CITIC Bank)
- Invitation letter
- If required, the original English invitation letter from the Israeli inviting party or a clear color scanned copy (including inviting company information, applicant information, purpose, itinerary, expense commitment and return guarantee)
- Filing channel
- Submit it to the Israeli Embassy or Consulate in China or its visa acceptance center according to the consular area (Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu), or you can entrust an agent to submit it.
- Required documents
- Original passport (valid for more than 6 months before returning to the country, 2 blank pages), 2 5.1×5.1cm color photos with white background, application form, ID card, proof of employment in English (stamped on company letterhead), a stamped copy of the Chinese business license, an invitation letter from Israel in English, original bank statements (with bank stamp) in the past 3 months, medical insurance covering the entire journey, and itinerary (detailed schedule is required for more than 2 weeks)
- Risk notes
- Israel does not stamp passports, and entry and exit are recorded electronically with separate paper visas/entry cards; Israel will trial eV starting in 2025
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://il.china-embassy.gov.cn/
Turkey (Türkiye) — Visa-free entry (from January 2, 2026)/e-Visa (Business Alternate Channel)
- Region
- Middle East
- Entry mode
- Visa-free (tourism/transit only); e-Visa recommended for business
- Processing time
- Immediate entry without a visa; electronic visas are usually issued within a few minutes to 24 hours (it is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before departure)
- Validity
- Visa-free: The cumulative stay does not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period; Electronic visa: Valid for 180 days after issuance
- Maximum stay
- Visa-free per visit / cumulative 90 days within any 180-day period; a single e-signature stay can last up to 30 days
- Fee
- 0 yuan for visa exemption (previously, the electronic signature fee was about 60 US dollars/about 500 yuan, and it will be waived after the visa exemption); if you need to electronically sign, it is 60 US dollars (about 430 yuan)
- Invitation letter
- Visa exemption is not required; electronic visa generally does not require an invitation letter (the system will review it based on conditions, and it is recommended to prepare proof of itinerary and funds)
- Filing channel
- You can enter the country directly with your passport without a visa; e-visa can only be applied online through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye www.evisa.gov.tr and its authorized platform.
- Required documents
- Visa-free: Chinese ordinary passport valid for more than 6 months, round-trip/onward air tickets, accommodation reservation, proof of funds; electronic visa: passport data page, email, credit card online payment (some cases require a valid OECD visa or residence permit, subject to evisa.gov.tr system verification)
- Risk notes
- Starting from January 2, 2026, Chinese ordinary passports will be visa-free (no more than 90 days in total every 180 days); Note: Presidential Decree
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
India — e-B-4 Electronic Production Investment Business Visa (newly established for China)/Regular Business Visa (paper sticker)
- Region
- South Asia
- Entry mode
- e-Visa
- Processing time
- e-B-4 takes about 45-50 days (the approval cycle is long and must be planned in advance); regular embassy business signing takes 5-10 working days
- Validity
- Single entry after e-B-4 is approved, the validity period is subject to the approval of the visa (usually the period corresponding to the itinerary); regular business visa is for multiple times in 1 year (subject to the approval of the embassy)
- Maximum stay
- e-B-4 can last up to 6 months; regular business visa cannot exceed 180 days each time
- Fee
- Business electronic signing costs 80 USD (approximately 580 RMB); regular embassy business signing costs 340-680 RMB, subject to the actual charges of the embassy/official website
- Invitation letter
- yes. Indian inviting companies are required to issue a sponsorship letter, and the inviting party must first register and submit an application with the Indian DPIIT National Single Window System (NSWS)
- Filing channel
- Indian electronic visa official website indianvisaonline.gov.in (e-B-4 is fully online); regular visas are submitted through the Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou, etc.)
- Required documents
- Passport valid for more than 6 months, white background ID photo, sponsorship letter from the Indian invitation company, Chinese employer certificate (current job details proforma), copy of household register, resume, round-trip air ticket itinerary, all supporting documents must be in English or certified English translations
- Risk notes
- e-B-4 will be available to Chinese citizens from January 1, 2026, and is suitable for equipment installation and debugging, quality inspection and maintenance, production
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
South Africa — Visitor's Visa - Business Trip
- Region
- Africa
- Entry mode
- Embassy application
- Processing time
- The official standard is about 15-20 working days; recently, the actual visa issuance in Beijing/Shanghai consular districts generally takes 60-90 days, and expedited processing is about 5-7 working days (expedited fees are extra)
- Validity
- Usually 3 months, the validity period and period of stay are approved according to the applied itinerary, and the number of entries is determined by the embassy
- Maximum stay
- Maximum time limit is 90 days
- Fee
- The short-term visa fee is about 172 yuan + the VFS service fee is about 343 yuan, the total starting from about 515 yuan (otherwise it is said that the visa fee is about 620 yuan, subject to the current announcement of VFS); 6-month multiple times are about 2181 yuan, 12-month multiple times are about 2331 yuan
- Invitation letter
- yes. An invitation letter needs to be issued by the South African inviting party, and each page of the inviting party's information must be notarized and certified (certification must be within the past 3 months)
- Filing channel
- Make an appointment at the South African Visa Application Center (VFS Global, Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu) to submit and collect biometric information; you can also apply for an electronic visa through the eHome platform of the South African Ministry of Home Affairs
- Required documents
- Passport (valid for more than 6 months, at least 2 blank pages), 2 35×45mm white background color photos, BI-84 visa application form, invitation letter from South Africa and certified information of the inviting party, Chinese employment certificate (including position, income, purpose of trip), Chinese company business license and English translation, round-trip air tickets and hotel reservations (completely consistent with the itinerary), bank statement/fund certificate, social security payment certificate for more than six months, and proof of residence in non-consular districts.
- Risk notes
- Chinese citizens do not enjoy visa exemption and visa on arrival; they must be present in person at the VFS center to have their fingerprints and photos taken (biometric identification);
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/south-africa/china/
Egypt — Business visa (sticker visa from the embassy in China)/electronic visa e-Visa
- Region
- Africa
- Entry mode
- e-Visa / Visa on arrival / Embassy
- Processing time
- It takes 10-15 working days for the embassy to sign a business contract (pre-examination is required and may actually be longer); electronic signing takes 3-7 working days (officially, the fastest is 24 hours); visa on arrival is processed on the spot
- Validity
- The embassy generally issues a single-entry visa valid for 3 months; the electronic visa is valid for 90 days after issuance (the multiple-entry version is valid for 180 days)
- Maximum stay
- Maximum single entry is 30 days
- Fee
- Embassy visa: single entry 530 yuan/person, multiple entry 740 yuan/person; electronic visa 25 US dollars (multiple times about 60-65 US dollars); visa on arrival 25 US dollars
- Invitation letter
- Embassy business visa requirements: The original English invitation letter from the Egyptian inviting party and a copy of the business license of the inviting company are required; invitation letters are generally not required for electronic visas/visas on arrival, but it is recommended to prepare invitation and dispatch documents for business trips.
- Filing channel
- The Embassy of Egypt in China/Consulate General in Shanghai; the official electronic visa website visa2egypt.gov.eg; visa on arrival can be obtained at Cairo Airport and other ports
- Required documents
- Passport valid for more than 6 months, 2 2-inch color photos with white background, original invitation letter in English, copy of the business license of the inviting company in Egypt, dispatch letter in English from the Chinese side (stamped on red paper), copy of the business license of the Chinese company (stamped), visa application form filled in English, round-trip air ticket order, approval document for overseas missions (official delegation)
- Risk notes
- Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from visa for 30 days. Ordinary and official ordinary passports require a visa; for arrival visa, round-trip air tickets and hotel reservations are required.
- Updated
- 2026-08
- Official source
- https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zggmcg/ljmdd/fz_648564/aj_648628/
Real case library (anonymized)
From actual transaction records, with personally identifiable information removed. Cases continue to accumulate.
Business visa / United States
Small Business Owner Applying for a B-1 Visa for the First Time
An individual foreign trader with a registered capital of RMB 100,000 went to the United States to participate in industry exhibitions. White passport, no exit record. By supplementing the company's flow sheet + exhibition registration confirmation letter + US invitation letter, the visa was approved on the first try.
Result: First time pass / wait 18 days
Exhibition Visa / Germany
Schengen Business Visa Invitation Letter Irregular and Returned
Three people from a technology company went to Germany to participate in the Hannover Messe. The invitation letter did not indicate the party responsible for the cost, and was returned by the visa center. Issued 12 days after re-issuance, but missed 2 days before the show.
Result: Approved after re-issuance, but missed 2 days of the show
Expatriate visa/UAE
Misunderstandings in choosing work visa vs. business visa
A company mistakenly used a business visa to arrange for its employees to go to Dubai for long-term work. When entering the country, the customs questioned the purpose of their stay, and they were almost deported. Later, I applied for a work visa (employment permit + residence visa) and entered the country smoothly.
Result: Passed after change / Delayed for 3 weeks