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2 ways to enter

China visas

China business visa

The M visa is for commercial and trade activities. Hainan also allows some business visits without a visa.

Ways to get a China business visa

  1. M business visa

    Visa needed

    People visiting for commercial and trade activities.

    Stay
    As shown on the visa.
    1. Obtain an invitation letter from a mainland China resident or company.
    2. Complete and sign the application form.
    3. Submit your passport and supporting documents to the appropriate application service.
  2. Hainan visa-free business visit

    No visa needed

    Citizens eligible for Hainan's 59-country visa-free scheme who visit Hainan for business or trade. The United Kingdom entry applies to British citizens only.

    Stay
    Up to 30 days in Hainan.

Who needs it

People travelling for commercial or trade activities need an M visa unless an applicable exemption or another entry scheme covers the trip.

Who doesn't

Hainan's 30-day visa-free scheme covers business and trade for eligible citizens. Eligible business travel card holders have a separate exemption.

How to apply

  1. Obtain an invitation letter from a mainland China resident or company.
  2. Complete the visa application form on a computer and sign it.
  3. Submit your passport and documents through the appropriate application service.

What to bring

  • Passport.
  • Completed and signed application form.
  • Invitation letter from a mainland China resident or company.

Good to know

  • Follow the permitted stay and entry limits shown on the visa.
  • Register your accommodation if staying for more than 24 hours.
  • Some nationalities can request long-term, multiple-entry M visas under special agreements.
  • An urgent port visa may cover certain business visits when you cannot obtain a visa in time.

Questions

Do I need a business visa for China?

People travelling for commercial or trade activities need an M visa unless an applicable exemption or another entry scheme covers the trip. Hainan's 30-day visa-free scheme covers business and trade for eligible citizens. Eligible business travel card holders have a separate exemption.

What are the ways to get a business visa for China?

There are 2 options: M business visa (a visa from an embassy); Hainan visa-free business visit (no visa at all).

Who can go to China without a business visa?

Citizens eligible for Hainan's 59-country visa-free scheme who visit Hainan for business or trade. The United Kingdom entry applies to British citizens only.

How long can I stay on a China business visa?

As shown on the visa.

What documents do I need for a China business visa?

Passport.; Completed and signed application form.; Invitation letter from a mainland China resident or company..

How do I apply for a China business visa?

1. 1. Obtain an invitation letter from a mainland China resident or company. 2. 2. Complete the visa application form on a computer and sign it. 3. 3. Submit your passport and documents through the appropriate application service.

What rules do I have to follow on a China business visa?

Follow the permitted stay and entry limits shown on the visa. Register your accommodation if staying for more than 24 hours.

Does my passport change whether I need a business visa for China?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the China visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a business visa for China be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest China business visa rules?

On China's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

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