F Visa - Exchange/Visit Visa
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 180 days
- Processing time
- 4 business days (express and rush options available)
- Fee
- $30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185)
- Validity
- Single or multiple entry: 3-12 months
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to nationals of all countries
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Purpose of visit
Non-commercial exchange: research, lectures, scientific exchange, cultural exchange, study tours, academic visits, technical cooperation
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: Color photo, 33mm x 48mm, white background, bare-head, full face, taken within past 6 months
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Invitation letter from a duly authorized Chinese entity or relevant institution. Must include visit purpose, itinerary, and details of the exchange program. For academic visits, letter from the hosting university or research institute.
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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
How to apply
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Online application
Complete the COVA form online selecting F visa category.
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Document gathering
Obtain invitation letter from Chinese host organization and prepare all supporting documents.
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Document submission
Submit at CVASC or Embassy/Consulate with all required documents.
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Fee payment
Pay applicable visa fee.
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Processing wait
Standard: 4 business days. Express and rush options available.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with F visa.