Thailand to China tourist visa
Complete guide to China visa requirements for Thai passport holders. Visa-free entry for up to 30 days or L visa for longer stays. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- China Tourist Visa / Visa-Free Entry
- Fee
- Free
- Processing time
- Instant (visa-free) / 4 working days (L visa)
- Length of stay
- Up to 30 days
Required documents
- Valid Thai Passport — Your Thai passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry
- Visa Application Form — Completed online application form via the CVASC website
- Passport Photo — Recent passport-sized photo meeting Chinese visa specifications
How to apply
- Complete the online application Visit — Complete the online application Visit bio.visaforchina.cn/BKK3_EN and fill out the visa application form. 2 Upload your photo and required documents. Print the confirmation page and full form.
- Gather your documents Prepare your — Gather your documents Prepare your passport (original plus photocopy), printed application form with photo, and any supporting documents. 1 Since January 2024, flight tickets and hotel bookings are optional but recommended. 1
- Submit in person at CVASC — Submit in person at CVASC Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Bangkok or Chiang Mai during working hours. 2 Submit your application and pay the fees in cash (THB only).
- Fingerprint collection (if required) Most — Fingerprint collection (if required) Most tourist visa applicants are currently exempt from fingerprints until December 31, 2025. 1 If required, your fingerprints will be collected at this visit.
- Collect your passport Return to — Collect your passport Return to CVASC after 4 working days (or sooner if you paid for express service) to collect your passport with the visa. 2
Common questions
- Do Thai citizens need a visa to visit China?
- No visa is needed for stays up to 30 days. Since March 1, 2024, Thai passport holders can enter China visa-free for tourism, business, or visiting friends and family for up to 30 days per visit. For longer stays, you need an L (tourist) visa.
- How long can Thai citizens stay in China without a visa?
- Thai nationals can stay up to 30 days per visit visa-free, with a maximum cumulative stay of 90 days within any 180-day period. For stays longer than 30 days, you must apply for an L visa.
- Is the Thailand-China visa exemption permanent?
- The current visa exemption is valid until December 31, 2025. Check official sources closer to this date for any extensions or changes to the policy.
- What documents do I need for visa-free entry to China?
- For visa-free entry, you need a valid Thai passport with at least six months validity. Having a return ticket and hotel bookings is recommended but not strictly required.
- How much does a China tourist visa cost for Thai citizens?
- Visa-free entry is completely free. If you need an L visa for longer stays, the fees are: Single entry ฿1,430 (regular), Double entry ฿2,180, plus a service fee of ฿680–1,360 at the visa center.
- How long does it take to get a China tourist visa?
- Standard processing takes 4 working days at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Express service (2–3 working days) is available for an additional fee, subject to approval.