Crew Visa
"Visa requirements for ship and vessel crew members"
Applying for a Chinese Crew Visa (C-Visa)
The Chinese Crew Visa (C-Visa) is essential for sailors or pilots traveling to China for work — whether to join a ship or to deliver clients via a private jet.
Important: If you are crossing the Chinese border as part of your job as a crew member, a Crew Visa suffices. However, if your work commencement involves starting on a ship or aircraft, you will need both a business visa for the journey and a Crew Visa for your duties.
Key Details
| Purpose of Travel | Work on an aircraft or ship en route to China |
| Duration of Stay | 30 days |
| Number of Entries | Single, double, or multiple |
| Validity Period | 90 days from issuance; 6–12 months for multiple entries |
Required Documents
- Completed Visa Application Form: Online only (since May 2019).
- Biometric Passport Photo: Colour, light background, ~3.5 × 4.5 cm.
- Passport: At least 6 months validity, one blank page (two for multiple entries).
- Copy of the passport bio-data page with the applicant photo and passport details.
- Signed privacy / data processing declaration if the application is processed through our service.
- Copy of Pilot or Crew ID with photo, for verification.
Additional Documents (Private Airlines / Logistics)
- Letter of dispatch: From your employer (airline or shipping company), ideally on official letterhead and showing the planned assignment in China.
- Detailed flight plan / deployment details: Necessary to validate the purpose and duration of stay.
Application Process
- Complete the online application on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website.
- Gather all necessary documents ensuring they meet specified requirements.
- Submit your application — may require an appointment.
- Wait for processing — varies by visa type and processing speed selected.
The Crew Visa for private airline and logistics company employees is issued for a maximum of two entries within six months. An annual multiple-entry visa is an exception and only possible with a relevant invitation.
Validity and Duration
The Crew Visa allows single or double entry valid for 90 days from issuance. Multiple-entry visas are usually valid for 6 or 12 months from the date of issue, while private aviation and logistics cases are commonly limited to a maximum of two entries within six months unless a stronger supporting invitation is available. Extensions within China are generally not possible.
Apply for Chinese Visa