Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the application gets rejected?

If the application gets rejected you will be charged, (this is the embassy fee, not ours), a £95 fee. However, we will ensure that your application is accurate before we submit it. We can't say for certain which applications would get rejected but if you have previously had a visa application to China rejected please let us know in advance as that could affect any future applications. Please note that we do not participate in the visa approval process and cannot be liable for any rejections.

What is the difference between Single and Multiple entries?

Single Entry only allows you to enter China once, which means if you leave before the visa's expire you will not be allowed back in (so please make sure you select the right dates on the application and visa). Multiple entries (commonly used by business travellers) allows multiple entries to China over the course of 6 or 12 months. 

How long is the visa valid for?

The visa is valid for 3 months or 90 days from the date you put on your application.

I plan on travelling to multiple destinations in China, do I need anything in particular?

In this case please contact us first, before booking any flights or hotels, to discuss further requirements needed when travelling to multiple destinations within China in a single trip.

Do I need a visa for Hong Kong or Macao?

This depends on the country you are from. Please visit the following links to check if you are required to have a visa:

Hong Kong - http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/visit-transit/visit-visa-entry-permit.html

Macao - http://www.fsm.gov.mo/psp/eng/EDoN.html

Does my child need to apply for a visa and is the cost the same?

Yes, any child under the age of 18 years  is required to apply for a visa. The cost of the visa would be the same, regardless of age. Furthermore, both parent's passport (regardless of whether they are going to China or applying for a visa) and the child's birth certificate are required documents. 

I'm not based in London can I still apply for a visa with the London Chinese Visa Services?

Yes, you can. However, you must be able to visit our head office in London in order to complete and sign the application form. We can then send the passport and visa back to you for £8 using Royal Mail Special Delivery.  However, you must be based in the UK with a permanent UK address.

What is the cost of the Visa?

Please refer to our Pricing tab for further information.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please refer to our Documentation Required tab for further information as different documents are required for different visas

How long does it take?

Normal service is 7 working days, alternatively, we offer an express service (for £30 extra) which is 4 working days. However, this is dependent on whether the embassy needs further information so it may potentially be either earlier or later. We will keep you informed should any issues arise. 

Am I able to submit my application remotely?

Unfortunately not. We will require a signature on your application, which must be done in person. However, we believe that this is best as we can help guide you through your application, which is not the easiest of visa applications to complete!

When are your opening hours?

We are open from 11am until 7pm, seven days a week. 

Do I have to book an appointment with you?

Ideally yes by either calling or emailing us. However we do allow walk-ins but please note that the office can get quite busy throughout the day so it is recommended you arrange a time if you are in a hurry. 

What forms of payment do you accept?

Unfortunately, at this moment in time, we are only able to accept cash as payment. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes.

Are you part of the Chinese Embassy in London?

No, we are not affiliated with any embassy nor do we participate in the visa approval process. We are simply providing an excellent service to our customers. You can also apply for the visa yourself but please note that you would have to queue up yourself and the embassy can be strict with mistakes, which we can spot before we queue up for you. 

Do you still have any questions? If so contact us via the contact form, info@chinesevisalondon.com or call us on (+44)-207-437-5188 and one of our friendly staff will be more than happy to help you.