CHINA Visa information for australians
Key information for Australians travelling to China.
Australia and China have made significant changes to their visa policies, making travel between the two countries more accessible.
This guide provides key information on visa requirements for Australians traveling to China.
If you have any visa questions, send us a message or speak to a local Visa expert.
New Visa Waiver Program
China has included Australia in its visa waiver program, meaning if you hold an ordinary Australian passport, you can enter China without a visa for no more than 15 days for business, tourism, visiting family and friends or transit.
This new(ish) policy makes it easier for Australians to enter China for short and last-minute holidays.
Visa-Free Key Points:
Valid for holders of ordinary Australian passports
Maximum stay of 15 days
No visa application required (no paperwork or fee $)
Purpose must be business, tourism or visiting family and friends
For more info, visit Smarttraveller.gov.au
Visa Requirements
For stays longer than 15 days or purposes not covered by the visa waiver program, Australians will need to apply for an appropriate visa. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of your visit.
The most common visa types are:
Tourist Visa (L)
Business Visa (M)
Work Visa (Z)
Student Visa (X)
Visit the Embassy of the People's Republic of China website for the official eligibility requirements and visa types.
Visa Fees
If you apply for a specific visa, expect to pay a minimum fee of A$94.50 per traveller for a single entry visa. China visa fees are reasonably priced, and if you’re in a rush to process your visa you can pay an extra ~$100 for the rush service which will get you a visa within 2 working days.
You can view the latest visa fees here at bio.visaforchina.cn
Application Process
Here’s how to apply for a Chinese visa:
1. Determine the appropriate visa type for your trip
The first step is to determine what type of visa you need for your visit, and how many trips you intend to take in the next 3 months (e.g. Single or Multiple entry). It’s helpful to read carefully the types of visas. Remember, you may be eligible for the visa-free option.
HONG KONG: Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry into Hong Kong for a period of 90 days
2. Gather required documents
Gather your passport, photos, invitation letters and any other documentation required — as outlined by your visa type. The Visaforchina.cn checklist outlines what documents are required for each visa.
Every visa requires a photo. You can get your photo taken at Australia Post for $21.95. Photos must be colour and taken within the last 6 months. For photo size and requirements click here.
3. Fill in the visa application form
The visa application form online located here. You can view a sample form here. You’ll need to create an account to complete your application online. Although, you’ll still need to print it out and sign the confirmation page as well as on the 6th page.
4. Submit your application
Take your printed application form and supporting documents to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, or by post to submit it. You can arrive at a consulate or embassy anytime, but it’s recommended you book a time online (you can do this after your application).There can be wait times at the consulates, so allow for at least one hour in your schedule. You can find consulates in major cities here.
5. Pick up your visa
The standard processing time is usually 5 business days. You’ll receive an email or sms to pick up your visa from the embassy or consulate you submitted at. You can always log in to check the status of your visa.
Important Considerations
Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in China.
Visa conditions: Understand and comply with the conditions of your visa to avoid any legal issues during your stay.
Updates: Given the recent changes in visa policies, always check the latest information from official sources before planning your trip.
China visa FAQs
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Australian and New Zealand passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry into Hong Kong for a period of 90 days. Source
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Chinese visas are typically valid for three months. It’s advisable that you apply for a visa one to two months before your intended date of entry into China but not earlier than three months.
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Currently two-way Postal Service is only available for residents who are eligible for exemption from fingerprint requirements. Source
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There are 6 types of Australian passports: Ordinary, Service, Diplomatic, Official, Special, and Other. The most common is the Ordinary passport, which has a navy blue cover. Learn more
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You may be required to undergo health examinations depending on your circumstances and the type of visa.
Visa medicals are typically required for individuals applying for long-term visas, such as work visas (Z visa), student visas (X visa) or residence permits.
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You will need to fill in a Payment Authorisation Form and include it in your application package posted to the Centre.
A receipt will be included in the passport package posted back to you.
Please note that visa policies can change, and specific requirements may vary depending on the applicant's nationality and purpose of visit.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For the latest travel advice from the DFAT including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information check smarttraveller.gov.au
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