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How to Apply for a Tourist Visa to China
No matter who you are, you’re going to need it. Possibly even if you’re Chinese.
So the time has come, you’ve made plans to visit China and you’ve discovered that you’ll need a visa for the trip; even though you’ll be travelling as a mere tourist. Before you take your trip you’ll need a Category L Chinese Tourist Visa. It’s not expensive, but getting it can be a bit of a bother. Different Consulates work differently, however they all need either a written or typed application form together with proof of your flights (not always), accommodation, and planned activities in China.
Checklist for Success
Consider your jaunt to the Consulate as training for the off-kilter and labyrythine experiences you’ll no doubt experience during your time spent in China. The first time I acquired this visa I did so at the Chinese Consulate in Melbourne, which required you make an appointment to go inside and make your in-person application. However, for my second visit a couple years later I went to the Consulate in Auckland, which does not take appointments and is instead a manic Game of Thrones event. It was a winner take all, mad dash, first-come, first-served experience.
