If you’re a resident of the UAE and planning to visit China, you’ll need to apply for a visa in person. China does not offer e-visas or visa-on-arrival for most nationalities residing in the UAE, which means scheduling an appointment at the official China Visa Application Center (CVAC) is the first major step.
This guide walks you through the process of preparing your documents, booking your visa appointment, and submitting your application — all without using a travel agent.
Who Should Apply for a China Visa from the UAE?
UAE residents with non-exempt passports — including citizens of India, Pakistan, Nepal, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and several others — must apply for a Chinese visa in advance.
Whether you’re visiting for leisure, work, business, or study, a visa is mandatory, and the process includes filling out an online application and attending an in-person appointment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a China Visa on Your Own
1. Identify Your Visa Type
Start by choosing the right visa based on your travel reason:
Tourist (L) – for sightseeing and vacation
Business (M) – for commercial trips and meetings
Family Visit (Q1/Q2) – for visiting relatives
Student (X1/X2) – for academic purposes
Work (Z) – for long-term employment in China
Knowing the correct visa category is important because each type has its own document requirements.
2. Fill Out the Application Form Online
Visit the official China Online Visa Application (COVA) portal:
Complete the entire form online — it’s detailed, so set aside 30–45 minutes.
Don’t leave any fields blank unless instructed.
After submission, print both the confirmation page and the full application form.
Sign and date them — these will be required at the visa center.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Here’s a typical checklist for a tourist visa (requirements may vary slightly by category):
Passport (original + copy, valid for 6+ months)
UAE residence visa copy
COVA application and confirmation (printed)
Recent passport photo (white background, exact size: 48mm x 33mm)
Flight reservation (not mandatory to purchase tickets)
Hotel booking or invitation letter
Travel itinerary or travel plan
Employment letter or NOC (if working)
Bank statement or financial proof (past 3 months)
👉 For detailed guidance by visa type, check:
China Visa for UAE Residents
4. Book Your Appointment at the CVAC
You can book your appointment through the Chinese Visa Application Center:
Choose your location:
Dubai: Falcon House, Wafi Mall
Abu Dhabi: Capital Tower, near ADNEC
Use the online system to select a date/time. After booking, print your appointment slip. Walk-ins are not accepted, and missing your slot could delay your application by days.
5. Attend the Appointment in Person
On the day of your appointment:
Arrive early and bring all your documents (originals + copies)
Submit your application and provide biometric data (photo & fingerprints)
Pay the visa fee at the center (exact amount depends on your nationality and visa type)
Keep the receipt — you’ll need it to collect your passport
Visa processing usually takes:
4–5 working days (standard)
2–3 working days (express, extra fee)
Approximate Visa Fees
The cost depends on your nationality and visa category. Here’s a general idea:
| Service Type | Price Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Single-Entry Visa | 400–600 AED |
| Express Processing | +150–200 AED |
Fees may be updated periodically. Always check the latest schedule before applying.
Final Reminders Before You Go
Make sure your printed form is signed
Don’t glue or staple your photo — take it with you
Organize documents clearly — loose papers delay processing
Dress neatly (some centers may deny entry for overly casual attire)
Conclusion
Applying for a China visa from the UAE doesn’t have to be complicated — and you can absolutely do it yourself. With a little preparation and attention to detail, booking your appointment and submitting your application can be a smooth experience.
If you’re still unsure about document formats or supporting materials, you can browse more information here:
🔗 China Visa for UAE Residents