We offer three different processing speeds to meet different travel needs:

• Standard service: the most cost-effective option, usually 6–10 working days.
• Express service: faster, usually 2–4 working days.
• Next-day service: for urgent cases, visa issued on the second working day after submission.

Each option is designed for travellers with different timeframes. See our full service overview here.

If you live in the UK, you can still apply for a China visa by providing your proof of legal residence, such as a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or digital eVisa status. According to the Chinese Embassy in the UK, requirements may vary depending on your nationality, and some applicants may need to provide additional supporting documents. For personalised advice, please contact us.

Normally, non-UK citizens must show proof of UK residence (such as a BRP). In some cases, applicants without UK residence permits may still be able to apply from the UK — this depends on your nationality and specific situation. We strongly advise you to contact our visa experts for personalised guidance, as the rules are complex and subject to change.

Many applicants are unsure which visa category fits their travel purpose, as the names can sound similar but the requirements differ greatly:

• Study visas (X1/X2) are divided by length of study, X1 is for long-term study over 180 days, while X2 is for short-term courses up to 180 days.
• Family visas (Q1/Q2) distinguish between long-term family reunion (Q1) and short family visits (Q2).
• Work (Z) vs Business (M): For employment or business, the difference is crucial! A Work (Z) visa is required if you will be employed in China and receive local salary, whereas a Business (M) visa covers short-term commercial activities such as trade fairs, client meetings, or supplier visits.

Please choose your visa category carefully based on your actual purpose of travel. Applying under the wrong category may increase processing time or even result in delays.

Children are regarded as independent applicants when applying for a China visa.

For minors under 18, a separate visa application form must be completed. Along with the application, you are required to provide proof of the parent–child relationship, such as a birth certificate, as well as signed consent letters from both parents and copies of their passports or UK residence permits.

The only exception is when a child is included in and travels with a parent’s passport — in that case, no separate application form is necessary.

At first glance, both the Business (M) visa and the Work (Z) visa seem to cover business activities in China. However, the distinction is whether you receive payment inside China.

• A Business (M) visa is for short-term commercial activities such as attending trade fairs, visiting suppliers, or negotiations. No local salary is allowed.
• A Work (Z) visa is required if you are employed or paid in China, even if the assignment is brief.

For example, if you travel for a short performance or show, and the Chinese organiser pays you a fee, this is considered local employment. In that case, you need a Work (Z) visa instead of a Business (M) visa. Click to view the detailed requirements and documents for Business (M) visa and Work (Z) visas.

In most visa applications, you are expected to provide flight tickets and hotel bookings to prove your planned stay in China.

However, the rules for invitation letters are more complex. The required format and content depend on your visa category. Because the requirements vary by travel purpose, we recommend checking by visa types for detailed visa instructions, or simply contact us for personalised guidance.

A PU/TE invitation letter is an official document issued by a Chinese government authority, usually the local Foreign Affairs Office. It carries higher authority than a regular company invitation and is sometimes required for more complex visa cases.

For most routine Business (M) visa applications, a normal invitation letter from your Chinese partner, client, or supplier is fully sufficient. But in certain situations, such as when an applicant is from a specific nationality group or when applying for a multiple-entry visa, the visa centre may require a PU/TE invitation letter instead of an ordinary one. Because the rules can change and differ by case, it is recommended to check the CVASC invitation guidelines or contact us for tailored advice.

The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair, held twice a year in Guangzhou) is the country’s largest trade exhibition and is recognised worldwide as a key event for international buyers.

To attend the fair, participants can request an official Canton Fair invitation letter through the online Buyer registration portal. This official invitation serves as proof of business purpose and allows you to apply for a Business (M) visa.

When you use the Canton Fair invitation, it is generally accepted as a complete supporting document. For detailed instructions, you can apply directly via the Canton Fair Invitation Portal.

Our Concierge Service is an optional premium add-on for travellers who want a completely stress-free process.

A dedicated consultant provides VIP support, 24/7 guidance, and priority handling. We organise all documents, check compliance, send deadline reminders, and fast-track your application for quicker results. With years of proven experience, we ensure reliable outcomes and peace of mind.

Note: Concierge Service is charged separately. Visa fees (including VAT, embassy and service fees) are listed on our Price Page.