Can I apply for a business visa without an invitation letter?

No. A formal invitation letter from a Chinese company is mandatory for M (business) visas. Without it, consider a tourist visa (L visa) instead, though this limits business activities you can legally perform.

How long can I stay with a business visa?

Business visas typically allow 30, 60, or 90-day stays per entry. The exact duration is marked on your visa and usually matches what's requested in the invitation letter. You cannot extend this period easily once in China.

Do I need to show proof of funds?

Yes, most consulates require bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds for your stay. The exact amount varies, but $100 per day of stay is a general guideline.

Can I enter China on a business visa for tourism?

Business visas are strictly for business activities. Using one for tourism can cause problems at immigration and affect future visa applications. Apply for the correct visa type for your actual purpose.

How to Apply for a Business Visa to China

Apply for a Chinese business visa (M visa) through the Chinese consulate or visa center in your country with an invitation letter from a Chinese company, completed application form, passport photos, and supporting documents. Processing takes 4-10 business days and costs $140-200 depending on your nationality and processing speed.

Get an invitation letter from your Chinese business partner. Request a formal invitation letter from the Chinese company you're visiting. This must include your full name, passport details, purpose of visit, intended duration, places to visit, relationship with the inviting company, and who covers expenses. The letter needs the company's official letterhead, stamp, and authorized signature.
Complete Form V.2013 online. Fill out the Chinese visa application form at the Chinese consulate website for your country. Print it after completion. Use black ink if filling by hand. The form asks for detailed travel history, so have your passport ready with previous entry/exit stamps.
Gather required documents. Collect your original passport (valid for 6+ months with blank pages), one recent passport photo (white background, 33x48mm), the invitation letter, round-trip flight itinerary, hotel bookings or accommodation arrangements, and business registration documents from your company.
Submit application in person or by mail. Visit the Chinese consulate, visa application center, or authorized agency in your area. Some locations accept mail applications. Bring all original documents plus photocopies. Pay the visa fee in cash or certified check (personal checks usually not accepted).
Track and collect your visa. Use the receipt number to track processing status online. Standard processing is 4 business days, express is 2-3 days for extra cost. Collect your passport with the visa attached, or arrange registered mail return if submitted by post.

Can I apply for a business visa without an invitation letter?: No. A formal invitation letter from a Chinese company is mandatory for M (business) visas. Without it, consider a tourist visa (L visa) instead, though this limits business activities you can legally perform.
How long can I stay with a business visa?: Business visas typically allow 30, 60, or 90-day stays per entry. The exact duration is marked on your visa and usually matches what's requested in the invitation letter. You cannot extend this period easily once in China.
Do I need to show proof of funds?: Yes, most consulates require bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds for your stay. The exact amount varies, but $100 per day of stay is a general guideline.
Can I enter China on a business visa for tourism?: Business visas are strictly for business activities. Using one for tourism can cause problems at immigration and affect future visa applications. Apply for the correct visa type for your actual purpose.