Visa requirements

China

General visa requirements for travelling to China. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Journalist visa (J-2 Visa - Short-Term Journalist Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
180 days
Processing time
Varies
Fee
$30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185)
Validity
Single entry: 3 months
Entry
Single entry

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to nationals of all countries who are accredited journalists

  • Purpose of visit

    Short-term news reporting mission (180 days or fewer)

    Includes
    • Short-term news reporting

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: Color photo, 33mm x 48mm, white background, bare-head, full face, taken within past 6 months

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Official letter from the media organization confirming the journalist's assignment, including reporting topic, locations, dates, and interview subjects

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA); Form url: https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn

  • Press credentials

    Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

    Accreditation type: Visa Notification Letter issued by the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China or other authorized entities; Media organization: Must be employed by a recognized media organization

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Media organization coordinates with China's MFA or authorized entity to obtain the Visa Notification Letter.

  2. Online application

    Fill in COVA form selecting J-2 visa.

  3. Document submission

    Submit all documents at Embassy/Consulate.

  4. Processing wait

    Processing time varies.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect passport with J-2 visa.

Sign in to apply

Journalist visa (J-1 Visa - Resident Foreign Journalist)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Processing time
Varies; may be longer than standard visas due to MFA coordination
Fee
$30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185)
Validity
Single entry; must convert to Residence Permit within 30 days (valid up to 1 year, renewable)
Entry
Single entry

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to nationals of all countries who are accredited foreign journalists

  • Purpose of visit

    Long-term foreign correspondent work (over 180 days) at a media bureau stationed in China

    Includes
    • Long-term foreign correspondent work

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: Color photo, 33mm x 48mm, white background, bare-head, full face, taken within past 6 months

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Official letter issued by the media organization for which the journalist works, confirming position and assignment in China

  • Application form

    Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

    Form name: Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA); Form url: https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn

  • Press credentials

    Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

    Accreditation type: Visa Notification Letter issued by the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China; Media organization: Must be employed by a recognized international media organization

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Media organization coordinates with China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Information Department to obtain the Visa Notification Letter for the journalist.

  2. Online application

    Fill in COVA form selecting J-1 visa.

  3. Document submission

    Submit passport, COVA form, photo, MFA Notification Letter, and media organization letter at Embassy/Consulate.

  4. Fee payment

    Pay applicable visa fee.

  5. Processing wait

    Processing time varies; may be longer than standard visas due to MFA coordination.

  6. Visa collection

    Collect passport with J-1 visa. After arrival, apply for press card and Residence Permit within 30 days.

Sign in to apply
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.