Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Chinese Visa
2025-05-01
Celebrate Dragon Boat Festival in China: Your Essential Tourist Guide
When to Visit: Dragon Boat Festival Dates 2025 and Travel Impact
Most foreign tourists need a tourist (L-type) visa to visit China. This is the case if you plan to travel for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, or engaging in other non-business, non-work related activities.
Where to Go for the Best Experience
- 144-hour Visa-free Transit: Citizens of 53 countries are eligible for a 144-hour visa-free transit in certain Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
- 72-hour Visa-free Transit: Available in some cities for eligible nationalities.
- Hainan Visa-free Policy: For tourists from 59 countries, Hainan Island offers a 30-day visa-free stay.
Applying for a Chinese Tourist Visa
What to Expect: Atmosphere, Crowds, and Decorations
- Valid Passport: At least six months validity and two blank pages
- Visa Application Form: Download from embassy website
- Recent Photo: Passport-sized with white background
- Proof of Travel Plans: Itinerary, hotel reservations, flight tickets
How to Participate/Observe: Things to Do Dragon Boat Festival China
Most embassies require online appointment scheduling. Arrive on time for your appointment.
Practical Tips for Dragon Boat Festival Travel
Bring all documents to the embassy/consulate and pay the application fee.
Cultural Etiquette: Respecting Traditions
Processing usually takes 4-7 business days, longer during peak seasons.
Is It Worth Visiting China During the Dragon Boat Festival?
Once approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker or arrange for mailing.
Requirements for Visa-free Entry
144/72-hour Transit
- Valid passport
- Onward ticket to third country
- Proof of itinerary (optional)
Hainan Policy
- Valid passport
- Hotel reservations in Hainan
- Basic travel itinerary
