France to China tourist visa
Complete guide to the China L visa for French citizens. Visa-free entry for 30 days, plus full application process, fees (€112), and requirements for longer stays.
- Visa
- China Visa-Free Entry
- Fee
- Free
- Processing time
- None required
- Length of stay
- Up to 30 days
Required documents
- Valid French Passport — Your passport must meet validity requirements for entry to China
- Online Application Form — Complete the visa application through the CVASC online system
- Passport Photo — Recent colour photograph meeting Chinese visa specifications
- Travel Itinerary — Proof of travel plans and accommodation in China
How to apply
- Application Submission — Monday-Friday, 09:00–12:00
- Payment and Collection — Monday-Friday, 09:00–14:00
- Size — 48mm x 33mm (larger than French passport size)
- Background — White only
- Recency — Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression — Neutral, mouth closed
Common questions
- Do French citizens need a visa to visit China?
- For stays up to 30 days, no. French citizens can enter China visa-free until December 31, 2026 for tourism, business, family visits, or transit. For stays longer than 30 days, you need to apply for an L visa (tourist).
- How long can French citizens stay in China without a visa?
- French citizens can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa under the current visa-free policy. This policy is valid until December 31, 2026. For longer stays, you must apply for the appropriate visa before travelling.
- How much does a China visa cost for French citizens?
- For stays requiring a visa, the total cost through CVASC Paris is approximately €112 for a standard single-entry tourist visa, including consular and service fees. Express service costs €157 (3 working days) and urgent service costs €187 (2 working days).
- How long does China visa processing take for French citizens?
- Standard processing takes 4 working days from passport submission at CVASC Paris. Express service takes 3 working days, and urgent service takes 2 working days. Allow additional time for the online pre-application review.
- Where can I apply for a China visa in France?
- You must apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in Paris, located at 26 Rue Jacques Dulud, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine (near Les Sablons Metro). All applications must be submitted online first at visaforchina.cn, then you visit CVASC in person to submit your passport.
- What documents do I need for visa-free entry to China?
- For visa-free entry (up to 30 days), you need a valid French passport (6+ months validity), proof of onward travel such as a return flight, accommodation details or invitation letter, and travel insurance is recommended. No visa application or fees required.