China Visa Overview for Vietnamese Citizens
Vietnamese citizens need a visa before entering mainland China. That said, China has several special exemption policies for Vietnamese travellers in certain border areas and designated tourist regions.
When You Don't Need a China Visa
- Official passport: visa-free for holders of an official Vietnamese passport
- 24-hour transit: visa-free transit at international airports
- Tour to Xishuangbanna (Yunnan): 6-day visa-free entry on a packaged tour
- Tour to Guilin (Guangxi): 6-day visa-free entry on a packaged tour
China Visa Photo Requirements
The China visa photo size is different from most other countries: 33 x 48 mm. This is a key detail that many applicants get wrong.
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 33 x 48 mm (3.3 x 4.8 cm) |
| Pixel size (online) | 354–420 x 472–560 px |
| Head width | 15–22 mm |
| Head height | 28–33 mm (chin to crown) |
| Top of head to top edge | 3–5 mm |
| Background | Pure white (#FFFFFF) |
| Resolution (printed) | Minimum 300 DPI |
| File size (online) | 40 KB – 120 KB, JPEG |
| Validity | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Quantity | 1–2 photos (bring 2 as backup) |
Important Photo Notes
The background must be printer-paper white, not off-white or light grey. Wear a dark top to create contrast. Glasses are not recommended; hats and head coverings are not allowed (except for religious reasons).
China Visa Online Application Process (COVA)
China requires applicants to complete an online form via COVA (China Online Visa Application) before submitting documents.
Step 1: Complete the Online Form
- Go to the COVA website: cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn
- Choose "Visa Application" → "New Application"
- Fill in personal information and trip purpose
- Upload your digital photo (354–420 x 472–560 px, 40–120 KB)
- Review and submit
- Print the confirmation page to bring with your physical submission
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
- Original passport: at least 6 months remaining, with 2 blank pages
- Printed COVA form: with barcode and signature
- Visa photos: 1–2 photos, 33x48 mm, white background
- Household registration copy: the page with your information
- Proof of residence: CT07/CT08 form or household book
- Round-trip flight booking: confirmed reservation
- Hotel reservation: or an invitation letter if staying with relatives
Step 3: Submit and Provide Fingerprints
Important: the China Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City requires applicants to attend in person to provide fingerprints. Using fake or someone else's fingerprints will lead to a denial of entry.
Where to Submit
- Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC): Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
- Embassy of China in Hanoi
- Consulate General of China in Ho Chi Minh City
Please verify the latest address and operating hours on the official CVASC or Embassy website before visiting.
China Visa Fees
Fees depend on visa type and processing speed:
- L tourist visa (single/double entry): base fee
- Multiple-entry visa (6 months – 1 year): higher fee
- Express processing (2–3 days): additional surcharge
Fees may change. Please check current fees on the CVASC or Chinese Embassy website.
Length of Stay
- L tourist visa: 30–60 days per entry
- Extensions: can be requested at the Chinese police before the visa expires
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Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Does a China visa require an interview?
Most applications do not require an interview. However, you usually need to provide fingerprints in person (unless they are already on file from a previous application).
What is 33x48 mm in inches?
33x48 mm is roughly 1.3 x 1.9 inches. This is China's special size, different from the US 2x2 inch or the 35x45 mm used by many other countries.
Do I need a visa for a guided tour?
If your tour goes to Xishuangbanna (Yunnan) or Guilin (Guangxi) and is operated by a Chinese travel agency, you may qualify for the 6-day visa exemption. All other cases require a regular visa.