How do Indian passport holders apply for a China visa?

Chinese visa application completed online, then submitted at the visa centre. The current application method is "Online + Print" — the form is completed online, then printed and signed for submission with your documents.

Which authority issues the China visa?

Chinese Visa Application Service Centre, through its official channel on visaforchina.cn. Visa issuance or refusal is solely at that authority's discretion.

Is there a downloadable China application form?

No downloadable form is published for this route. The application is completed through the official channel linked above, so avoid copies of old forms found elsewhere.

How long does a China visa take?

Processing times are published by the authority and vary by visa category, place of application and time of year. Apply well before your travel date and check the official page for current timelines.

Can Visadesk help with my China application?

Yes. Our team can help you understand the applicable process, documentation and application requirements. We are an independent assistance provider, not a government body.

China Visa Application Forms for Indians

Chinese visa application completed online, then submitted at the visa centre

Tourist
Business
Student
Work
Family / Visit

Official application form & method

Chinese Visa Application (COVA)

Online + Print

The form is completed online, then printed and signed for submission with your documents.

Issuing authority: Chinese Visa Application Service Centre
Source: Authorized Application Centre
Official domain: visaforchina.cn
Last verified: 20 September 2026
Visa categories: Tourist, Business

Complete the form online, print and sign it, then submit it in person at the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre. Current forms and guidance are also published by the Chinese Embassy in India.

Fill & Print Form Need help filling this form?

Document checklist

Passport valid for the period required by the destination authority, with blank pages
Recent photographs matching the specifications published by the authority
Completed application in the format shown above
Confirmed travel itinerary and accommodation or host details
Proof of funds — bank statements, salary slips or income tax returns
Employment, business, study or sponsorship proof as applicable to your visa category
Cover letter explaining the purpose and duration of travel

This is a general guide. The authority publishes the binding document list for your visa category.

Application process

01Open the official China application route published by Chinese Visa Application Service Centre.
02Fill the official form completely, then print and sign it.
03Assemble the supporting documents for your visa category.
04Submit the application through the channel named by the authority and pay the official fee.
05Track the application and collect the passport when a decision is issued.

Processing information

Processing times for China applications are published by Chinese Visa Application Service Centre and vary by visa category and place of application. Confirm the current timeline on the official page before booking travel.

Important notes

Fees, eligibility rules, document lists and processing times are set by the destination authority and can change without notice — always confirm on the official page before you apply.
A visa or travel authorisation does not guarantee entry; the border authority takes the final decision.
Visadesk Global LLP is an independent visa assistance service provider and is not affiliated with the issuing authority.

China visa form FAQs

Need Help With Your Visa Application?

Not sure which form to use or how to complete your application? Our visa team can assist you with understanding the applicable visa process, documentation and application requirements.

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Official Source Verification

The "Official Source" badge indicates that, at the time of the displayed verification date, Visadesk identified the linked resource as belonging to or being officially designated by the relevant government, immigration authority, embassy, consulate, foreign ministry or authorised application provider.

Government websites, visa forms, eligibility criteria, fees, requirements and application procedures may change without prior notice.

Applicants should review the latest information displayed by the relevant official authority before submitting an application.

Visadesk Global LLP is an independent visa assistance service provider. Displaying an official source does not indicate affiliation with, authorisation by, endorsement by or partnership with a government authority unless specifically stated.

Visa issuance or refusal remains solely at the discretion of the applicable government or immigration authority.

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