In accordance with the "Law of the People's Republic of China on Entry and Exit of Aliens" and other relevant regulations, the aliens who apply for Chinese visas are required to fulfill the following procedures:

1. Basic requirements

a) One completed visa application form with one photo (passport photo) attached.

b) A passport valid for more than six months with blank visa pages.

c) For people who goes to China for the first time: 3 months bank-statements and original air-flight tickets.

2. A brief introduction to Chinese visas

a) Tourist visa (L- visa)

There are single-entry (valid for 3 months) and double-entry tourist visas. Multiple-entry tourist visa can only be permitted by the Embassy on applicant's particular situation.

Requirements: A letter of confirmation from a Chinese travel service or a local travel service and the return air ticket. A letter of explanation if requesting a multiple-entry tourist visa

b) Business visa (F-visa)

There are single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry business visas.

Requirements for single-entry or double-entry visa: an invitation letter or fax  from the Chinese company and a letter of introduction from your own company.

Requirements for multiple-entry visa: a letter or fax from the authorized Chinese department or company or organization together with a letter of introduction from your company. Otherwise, a proof of being a regular visitor to China is needed, such as previous Chinese visas.

c) Resident visa (D-visa)

A permanent residence confirmation is required. The confirmation is from the exit and entry department of public security bureau of the municipal or county where you intend to reside.

d) Employment Visa (Z-visa)

An invitation letter or fax from the department of the Chinese Government, together with an employment certificate issued by the relevant department or certificate of foreign expert. If you are going to work more than 6 months, a "Physical Examination Record For Foreigner" filled out and signed by a doctor shall be submitted.

e) Study Visa (X-visa)

A visa application form for international students (JW-202) issued by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and a notification of admission from the receiving school. If you are going to study more than 6 months, a "Physical Examination Record For Foreigner" filled out and signed by a doctor shall be submitted.

f) Transit Visa (G-visa)

A valid visa of the destination country and a through air ticket are required.

g) Visas for Train Attendants, Air Crew Members and Seamen (C-visa)

The confirmation is required in accordance with the mutual agreement.

h) Journalist Visa (J-1-visa, J-2-visa)

A letter or fax from the competent department of the Chinese Government. If you are going to work in China as a journalist, a "Physical Examination for Foreigner" filled out and signed by a doctor shall be submitted.

i) Diplomatic Visa or Service Visa

You are required to submit a formal diplomatic note. If your are invited by the Chinese governmental department, an invitation letter is required.

3. Other requirements

The applicant born in China who apply for Chinese visa for the first time with his or her new foreign passport is required to submit his or her Chinese passport or old foreign passport.

4.The Embassy is entitled to request the applicant to provide other relevant documents or to reject the application in accordance with the Law and international practices.

5. Applicants are required to check the documents carefully. You will bear all the responsibilities if you do not complete the visa application form truthfully.

6. Payment

Visa fee should be paid  on collection of your visa. The Embassy of the People's Republic of China accepts cash payment only.

7. Visa fee

8. Collecting date

Normally the visa may be issued on the fourth working day from the date of the application. You must present the Pick-Up Form and proof of payment when you come to get your passport back. Only with the consent of the Embassy can it be expedited but you are required to pay extra rush fees.

Collecting on the next working day	R.250
Collecting on the third working day	R.170