Understanding the New Two-Step Chinese Visa Process
Chinese visa applications now require two separate steps. Applicants should allow enough time for both stages before making final travel arrangements.
Step 1: Online Application and Preliminary Review
The online application must first be completed online and submitted for preliminary review. With accurate information and properly prepared documents, this stage usually takes 5–10 business days. The application must be approved before the passport can be submitted. Expedited service may shorten the overall process, but it does not bypass the preliminary review stage.
Step 2: Passport Submission and Visa Issuance
Once the application status shows “Passport to be submitted,” the applicant may submit the original passport. The passport must be submitted within 30 days of approval, or the application will expire. Visa issuance generally takes an additional 3–5 business days after passport submission.
Application evaluation, form preparation, document coordination, and shipping logistics may require another 2–5 business days. Applicants should plan for an estimated total turnaround of 3–4 weeks for standard service or 2–3 weeks for expedited service.
Please note that we no longer offer standalone passport submission or pick-up services for the Chinese Consulates in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, or Chicago. These services are available only as part of our Full-Service Application Support for applications prepared and managed by our office.