I always wanted to go to China (to Beijing and Shanghai). However, before packing my luggage, I had to undergo the visa process. We are all aware of the standard methods and techniques of applying for a Chinese tourist visa in our country. However, today in this blog, I am recounting my own experience of gaining a Chinese tourist visa in my country, India, in 2026. I have detailed the steps as simply as possible, so if you have the same idea, you will not be in the dark.
Table of Contents
Do Indians require a Chinese Tourist Visa?
Indian citizens do require a valid visa to visit China. Currently, Indians do not enjoy the facility of visa-on-arrival or e-visa as of 2026. In India, I was required to obtain a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) beforehand. This visa is intended for travellers like me who aim to tour the country.
What Were the Required Documents?
I also prepared a list of everything that I needed before I made the application. What I submitted to apply for a Chinese tourist visa in India was as follows:
- An Indian passport that is valid for at least six months and has two unused visa pages.
- A signed and printed-up VISA application form that I had previously filled out online.
- An up-to-date photograph (white background according to the specifications of China)
- Paid for the trip flights
- Reservation of a hotel in China
- The bank statement of the past three months shows a sufficient balance to finance my travel. The example in my situation was that I filed a statement depicting more than 1,00,000
- A cover letter that was my expression of travel plan and purpose
I also did not provide an invitation letter since I did not receive any invitation. If you are visiting someone, conducting business, or making family visits, you may need to obtain a signed letter from your inviter in China. However, this was not required in the case of tourism.
Where did I get the China Tourist Visa?
I reside in Delhi; therefore, I made an application at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in Delhi. Cities such as Mumbai and Kolkata have similar centers. Previously, applicants had to apply only through an appointment; however, as of 2026, walk-in applications are permitted most of the time. Nevertheless, I still made an appointment online to avoid long queues.
The visa center personnel were accommodating. They scanned through my papers and approved them without any complications. I was not required to provide biometric information since furnishing those details has also been dropped as an obligatory requirement when applying for this type of ordinary tourist visa.
What Was the Cost?
The visa fee was surprisingly affordable, especially after the reduction in late 2024. I spent approximately $ 2000 -$ 2500 (including service charges). While there’s an option for express service at a higher rate for urgent cases, I found the standard process to be reasonable and efficient.
What was the Duration of the Process?
I submitted my application on a Monday and was notified to collect my passport on Friday. This quick turnaround, with the visa stamped and valid for 30 days from the date of entry into China, was a pleasant surprise. The process was much swifter than I had anticipated, providing a sense of relief about the timeline.
Do Indians qualify to enter visa-free?
No, Indian citizens are not on the visa-free list of China by 2026. Short stays have been granted without visas to some countries, such as Germany, France, Malaysia, Thailand, etc. However, even Indian passport holders have to apply in advance.
Some cities offer a 24 or 144-hour transit visa, but this is only applicable to individuals transiting China to a third country, not for tourism purposes. Therefore, if you are traveling to China on a tourist visa and have previously visited India, you will certainly require a visa.
Also Read – 10 Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City: Your Ultimate Guide to Vietnam’s Vibrant Heart
My Travel Plan and Cover Letter
I was able to write a brief statement on why I have been to China in my cover letter. I talked about the cities that I would visit-Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. I also provided my dates of entry and exit from the country, the names of the hotels I would stay in, and the details on how I would finance my stay.
Although not required, the cover letter accompanying my application documents presented a more favorable impression to the recruitment personnel, making my application appear complete and proficient. I think this helped with the faster approval.
An Easy Way to Survive the Visa Process
Here are a few points that you need to consider in your experience:
- Start early: Do not leave your work to the last minute. The permits should be applied for as early as three weeks before your visit.
- Ensure you have a valid passport with a page: Your passport must have enough validity (a valid passport with a page) and have two blank pages.
- Make use of proper photocopies: Do not make use of a non-clear photocopy of documents.
- Print all: Have copies of all of the things you booked (hotels, flights, and banks) in print.
- Please do not overlook the cover letter: It only gives clarity to your application.
- Organize documents: You’ll appreciate having a neat and well-organized file at the visa center.
- You can track your application, as you will receive a receipt with a tracking number. You can use it to check your status online.
Final Thoughts
It is relatively easy to obtain a Chinese tourist visa in India in 2026, provided one follows all the procedures correctly. The regulations are apparent, and the visa centres are in good shape. Its documents are standard, and the majority of them can be prepared in one or two days. The most critical factors are brightness, clear documentation, and sufficient time available when applying.
That was my first step in this visa journey, and I am glad it turned out well. And in case you are planning your China visit, no need to worry. Follow the steps, and you’ll have your visa in no time.
Read More Blogs on Josh 18