United Kingdom to China tourist visa
Complete guide to the China L visa for British citizens. Application process, fees (£130), requirements, and processing times updated December 2025.
- Visa
- China Tourist Visa
- Fee
- £130
- Processing time
- 4 working days
- Length of stay
- Up to 30 days
Required documents
- Valid UK 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, 09:00–15:00 (Urgent: 09:00–13:00)
- Passport Collection — Monday-Friday, 09:00–16:00
- Size — 48mm x 33mm (larger than UK passport size)
- Background — White only
- Recency — Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression — Neutral, mouth closed
Common questions
- Do UK citizens need a visa to visit China?
- Yes, British citizens currently need a visa to visit China. Unlike citizens of France, Germany, and other European countries who can enter visa-free, UK passport holders must apply for an L visa for tourism. The visa-free policy announced in late 2024 currently does not include the United Kingdom.
- How much does a China visa cost for UK citizens?
- The total cost for a standard tourist visa through CVASC is £130, which includes the £64 consular fee and £66 CVASC service fee. Express service costs £161 (3 working days) and urgent service costs £182 (2 working days). Multi-year visas cost more: £194 for 5-year and £257 for 10-year multiple entry.
- How long does China visa processing take for British citizens?
- Standard processing takes 4 working days from passport submission at CVASC. Express service (additional £31) takes 3 working days, and urgent service (additional £52) takes 2 working days. You should also allow time for the online pre-application review.
- Where can I apply for a China visa in the UK?
- You must apply through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC). There are locations in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Belfast. All applications must be submitted online first at visaforchina.cn, then you visit the CVASC in person to submit your passport.
- What documents do I need for a China tourist visa?
- You need a valid UK passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), completed online application form, passport photo (48mm x 33mm, white background), and proof of travel arrangements including flight bookings and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host in China.
- Can I visit Tibet or Xinjiang with a standard tourist visa?
- Tibet requires a special Tibet Travel Permit that must be arranged through a registered Chinese tour agency. You cannot obtain this permit independently. Xinjiang may also have travel restrictions. Both regions require careful planning beyond the standard L visa.