The China business visa, also known as an M visa, is issued to those intending to go to China for commercial and trade purposes, such as business meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
Who Can Apply for a China Business Visa?
Every foreign national can apply for a China business visa unless they are from one of the countries that benefit from China’s visa-free policy. Specific agreements with certain countries offer special visas:
Country | Visa Duration |
United States | Up to 10 years |
Canada | Up to 9 years |
Argentina | Up to 10 years |
Israel | Up to 10 years |
United Kingdom | Up to 2 years |
Additional benefits include:
Foreigners with a previous business visa can apply for a 1-year business visa.
Residents of Hong Kong with an HKID card are eligible for a 1-year business visa.
APAC citizens with an ABTC (APEC Business Travel Card) with "CHN" on the back can travel to China for up to 60 days on business without a visa.
Holders of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao passports will have a special travel permit valid for up to 10 years.
Business travellers from Hong Kong to Shenzhen can get a 5-day visa, and those from Macao to Zhuhai can enjoy a 3-day visa upon arrival.
How to Apply for a China Business Visa?
When applying for a China business visa, follow these steps:
Prepare the required documents: Use the checklist provided by the embassy to gather necessary documents. Proper documentation is crucial for your application.
Complete your visa application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately, print it, and include it with other documents.
Book an appointment with the Chinese embassy or consulate: Find the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate and book a visa appointment.
Attend the visa appointment: Submit your documents and undergo an interview at the embassy or consulate. Biometric information will be collected for applicants aged 14 to 70.
Pay your visa application fee: Pay the visa application fee, service fee, and tax. Costs vary depending on nationality.
Wait for the processing time and get your visa: Standard processing time is 4 working days. Express service (2-3 days) is available for an additional fee. Collect your passport with the China business visa once approved.
What Are the Requirements for a China Business Visa?
Submit the following documents when applying for a China business visa:
Visa application form: A fully completed form available online.
Original passport: Valid for at least six months with two blank pages. Include photocopies of the bio and extension pages (if applicable).
Passport-sized photograph: Complying with China visa photo requirements (48mm x 33mm).
Certificate of employment: Stating the applicant’s name, passport number, job position, purpose of visit, and a photocopy of the employee’s card.
Business cover letter: Addressed to the Embassy of China from your home country company.
Letter of invitation: Issued by a trade partner in China or trade fair organizer, containing details of the applicant, visit, and inviting party.
Company certificate and tax clearance record.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
Trip itinerary: Air ticket booking (round trip) and hotel reservation proof.
Proof of financial subsistence: An original bank statement for the last 4 months, signed and stamped by the bank. The average amount should not be less than HK$2764.98.
How Long Can I Stay With a China Business Visa?
The M visa is valid for up to 6 months with one, two, or multiple entries, allowing a 30-day stay per entry. US, UK, Canadian, and Argentine citizens can obtain a 10-year visa with multiple entries, each allowing a 2-month stay.
To extend your stay, visit the local exit and entry administration at least seven days before your visa expires.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a China Business Visa?
The cost varies by nationality and service speed:
Citizens | Number of Entries | Visa Fee (CNY) |
Schengen Citizens | Single/Double/Multiple | ¥433 |
United States | Single/Double/Multiple | ¥1,006.69 |
United Kingdom | Single/Double/Multiple | ¥860 |
Canada | Single/Double/Multiple | ¥558 |
Brazil | Single/Double/Multiple | ¥1,015 |
Australia | Single | ¥508 |
Double | ¥648 | |
Multiple (6 months) | ¥787 | |
Multiple (12 months) | ¥1,066 | |
India | Single | ¥341.58 |
Double | ¥512.37 | |
Multiple (6 months) | ¥683.16 | |
Multiple (12 months) | ¥1,024.73 |
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