How to Apply for a China Visa from the United States
Choose your visa type · Complete the COVA form · Submit & collect — a clear step-by-step walkthrough for U.S.-based applicants.
Quick answer: To apply for a China visa from the U.S., first pick the right type (L for tourism, M for business, Q for family), complete the COVA online form, prepare your documents, submit at the center serving your district, pay the fee, then collect your passport — usually within about 4 business days.
Step 1 — Determine your visa type
China uses letter codes for visa categories. Tourism is L, business is M, family visits are Q (Chinese relatives) or S (foreigners' relatives), study is X, work is Z, and transit is G.
Not sure which code fits? See our China Visa Types Explained guide.
Step 2 — Complete the COVA online application
The COVA system (consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA) is where you fill out the official visa form. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport, upload a compliant photo, then print the confirmation page with its barcode. You will submit this printed page with your application.
Step 3 — Prepare your documents
Gather your passport, photo, COVA confirmation, and the extra papers your visa type requires. The full list is on our Documents Required for a China Visa page.
Step 4 — Submit your application
After you file the COVA form, the system directs you where to submit (a Visa Application Service Center or the consular section) based on your state of residence. Since October 23, 2023, Chinese missions in the U.S. accept walk-in submissions after COVA filing — a separate online appointment is generally not required. Some locations also allow mail-in applications.
Step 5 — Pay the visa fee
Fees depend on visa type, number of entries, and your nationality. U.S. citizens pay a reciprocity fee on top of the base fee. See our Processing Time & Fees guide for current ranges.
Step 6 — Collect your passport
Collect in person or by mail once processing is complete. Most U.S. citizens receive a 10-year multiple-entry L or M visa, and eligible family visitors a 10-year Q2 visa.
Related pages
FAQ
A: Since October 23, 2023, Chinese missions in the U.S. accept walk-in submissions after you complete the COVA form — a separate online appointment is generally not required. Confirm the accepted method with the mission serving your district.
A: Regular processing is about 4 business days. Express service (where offered) is faster for an added fee. Mail-in applications take longer once shipping is included.
A: Some locations offer mail-in service; others require in-person submission. The COVA system and the mission for your district will indicate the accepted method.
A: It depends on your state of residence (consular district). The Embassy in Washington covers D.C. and many Eastern states; consulates serve the New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago districts. See our consulate pages for district maps.
A: Yes. Under reciprocity, U.S. citizen tourists and business travelers generally receive a 10-year multiple-entry L or M visa, and qualifying family visitors a 10-year Q2 visa.
Disclaimer: This page is for visa consulting and document preparation reference only. It is not legal advice, does not represent any embassy, consulate, or visa authority, and does not guarantee any visa outcome. Consulate addresses, office hours, and jurisdictions may change at any time; all information is subject to the latest published rules of the relevant authorities.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-22