Applying for a Chinese Visitor Visa (L-Visa) — Visiting Friends or Distant Relatives
The Chinese Visitor Visa (L-Visa) is necessary for visiting friends or distant relatives residing in China as workers or students with a Residence Permit.
This type of visa can be issued for:
- A single entry with a stay of up to 90 days.
- Double entries, with each stay not exceeding 30 days.
In addition to friends, extended family members such as uncles, aunts, cousins, and in-laws can also issue the necessary invitation letter.
Visa for Close Relatives
If there is a direct family relationship (parents, grandparents, siblings, children-in-law), apply for the Relative Visa Q (for Chinese relatives) or Relative Visa S (for foreign relatives) instead. These allow stays up to 180 days or multiple stays. Application must include marriage or birth certificates.
Key Details
| Purpose | Visit friends or distant relatives |
| Duration of Stay | Options for 30 days or 90 days |
| Number of Entries | Single or double |
| Validity Period | 90 days from issuance for entry into China |
Required Documents
- Completed Visa Application Form: Must be filled out online and printed.
- Biometric Passport Photo: Colour, light background, ~3.5 × 4.5 cm.
- Passport: At least 6 months validity, one blank page (two for double entry).
- Formal Host Invitation: Must include host's full address, telephone, name, intended stay, and birthdate of invitee — signed by host. Include copies of host's passport/visa or Chinese ID card (both sides). Scan/email is sufficient.
- Round-trip Flight Booking: Proof of travel arrangements.
Validity and Duration
The Chinese Visitor Visa allows entry for 90 days from issuance. Once in China, it is valid for 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the invitation.
Apply for Chinese Visa