China Visa Fees 2026 — eVisa Cost, Standard Visa & All Charges Explained
| Key Facts 2026 | |
|---|---|
| eVisa (evisa.mfa.gov.cn) | FREE |
| Single-entry standard visa | USD 140 |
| Double-entry standard visa | USD 140 |
| Multiple-entry 6-month visa | USD 140 |
| Multiple-entry 1-year visa | USD 140 |
| Transit visa (X days) | USD 140 |
| Consulate service fee (third-party) | Varies by country |
China eVisa — Free of Charge Since 2023
One of the most significant changes in Chinese travel policy is the introduction of a completely free eVisa for eligible nationalities through evisa.mfa.gov.cn. There are no application fees, no service charges and no hidden costs when applying directly through the official portal. This replaces the old visa-on-arrival system for many countries and makes China far more accessible for short-stay tourists and business visitors.
Standard Visa Fees at the Chinese Consulate
Travellers who are not eligible for the free eVisa, or who need a visa category not available online (such as a student X1/X2 visa, journalist J visa, or work Z visa), must apply at a Chinese embassy or consulate. The standard fee is USD 140 regardless of visa type or number of entries. Some countries have reciprocal fee agreements that may alter this rate. Always check the fee schedule at the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission.
Additional Costs & Payment Methods
Third-party visa agencies charge service fees on top of the official consulate fee, typically USD 20–80. The official eVisa portal accepts major credit and debit cards. Consulate payments vary by location — some accept bank drafts, cash or card. Fees are generally non-refundable once the application is submitted, even if the visa is denied. Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended.
Reciprocal Fee Arrangements
China operates a reciprocal visa fee policy with some countries, meaning citizens of those countries pay the same fee that Chinese nationals pay for a visa to that country. This can result in different fees for applicants from countries such as the United States or Canada. Check the fee calculator on your nearest Chinese consulate website for accurate figures before applying.