How Do I Apply for a 10-Year China Visa?

📍 Who Is Eligible for a 10-Year China Visa?

The 10-year China visa is available only to:

• U.S. passport holders

It may be issued for the following visa types:

• M (Business)

• L (Tourist)

• Q2 (Family Visit)

• S2 (Family Visit – Non-Chinese Relative)

Visa issuance is determined by the Chinese consulate.

There is no separate process for applying for a 10-year visa.

⚠️ Important Exceptions

Even if you qualify by passport and visa type, the consulate may issue a shorter validity visa in certain situations, including:

• Your passport has one year or less of remaining validity

• You have a criminal record

• You have previously overstayed a China visa

• Other case-by-case circumstances determined by the consulate

All approvals are discretionary.

💰 Consular Fees

The Chinese consulate charges:

• The same consular fee for all U.S. passport holders regardless of visa type or validity issued

This means:

• You will pay the same fee even if a 10-year visa is not granted

🚫 Can I Appeal If I Don’t Receive 10 Years?

No.

• There is no appeal process

• The consulate does not provide an explanation for reduced validity

• Visa duration cannot be changed 

• There is no special process to obtain a 10-year visa

Swift cannot influence visa validity decisions.

💡 Helpful Notes

• Ensure your passport has sufficient remaining validity before applying

• Provide complete and accurate documentation

• Visa issuance is not guaranteed