---
title: What to Do If You Have a Valid China Visa in an Old Passport
description: Learn how to travel with a valid China visa in an expired passport, when you can apply for a new visa, and what to do if your name or gender has changed.
---
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1. [Swift Passport and Visa Help Center](https://support.swiftpassportservices.com/swift-knowledge-base?hsLang=en)
2. [China Visas](https://support.swiftpassportservices.com/swift-knowledge-base/china-visas?hsLang=en)
# What to Do If You Have a Valid China Visa in an Old Passport
## Learn how to travel with a valid China visa in an expired passport and when you can apply for a new visa.
#### 🧾 Traveling With a Valid Visa in an Expired Passport
Yes, you can travel to China on a valid visa in an expired passport. If your China visa is still valid but your passport has expired:
- You may travel to China until the visa expiration date
- You must carry:
- Your expired passport containing the valid visa
- Your new, valid passport
Both passports must be presented when traveling.
---
#### 🔁 Applying for a New Visa Instead
You may choose to apply for a new visa if you prefer not to travel with two passports.
### If applying for the same visa type:
- The Chinese consulate may require that your current visa is within **six months of expiration** before allowing a new application
- Note: The six-month expiration guideline refers to your current visa having fewer than six months remaining before it expires. Approval is at the discretion of the consulate
Swift cannot guarantee that a new visa will be issued if your current visa does not meet the six-month expiration guideline. We recommend contacting the relevant Chinese consulate directly to confirm current requirements before applying.
### If applying for a different visa type:
- You can apply at any time.
Please note that applying for a new visa will cancel the original valid visa.
---
#### ⚠️ Important Considerations
- You cannot hold two valid visas
- The consulate determines whether an existing visa will be canceled when a new application is submitted
- Visa issuance is never guaranteed
Swift cannot override consulate rules regarding visa validity or replacement. For the most up-to-date requirements, please check with the Chinese consulate or embassy in your country.
---
#### 💡 Helpful Notes
- If traveling with two passports, ensure both are in good condition
- If your passport information no longer matches your visa, you will need to apply for a new visa
- Always verify visa type and expiration before booking travel
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