China Visa Renewal & Extension

China Visa Renewal and Extension: Requirements, Procedures & Fees

All visitors planning to travel to China should be aware that once a China Visa Application is submitted or processed, the visa type and validity cannot be changed without canceling the original application and submitting a new one along with the required visa fees.

It is important to be prepared for any changes in your travel itinerary to China to avoid any visa-related issues. If your travel plans change before your departure, you can simply submit a new application to obtain the correct type of Chinese visa or a longer duration of stay. If you are already in China, you have the option to apply for a China Visa Renewal, Reissuance, or Extension through the Exit & Entry Administration Department of the Public Security Bureau (PSB).

Being proactive and informed about the visa application process will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in China.

How to Get Your Chinese Visa Renewed

Upon arrival in China, foreigners must apply for a visa renewal at the Exit & Entry Administration Office of the Public Security Bureau (at the county level or higher) under the following circumstances: ① changing the purpose of their visit and stay; ② obtaining a new passport (due to the expiration of the former passport or the exhaustion of visa pages); ③ adding companions after entry; ④ group tourists needing to stay in China separately. Failure to renew your China Visa will result in the invalidation of your former visa, requiring you to exit the country and return home. It is important to note that illegal stays will be penalized.

When applying for a China Visa renewal, all foreign applicants must submit the necessary documents, undergo an inquiry, and follow the standard application procedures. The authorities will make a decision on issuing a new Chinese Visa within 7 days of acceptance. Refer to the guide below for detailed instructions on how to prepare and successfully renew your China Visa.

Basic Requirements of China Visa Renewal:

To apply for a Chinese Visa, you will need to have the following documents ready:

●Your valid passport (or valid international travel documents) and Chinese Visa
●A completed Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form
●A recent 2-inch photo taken within the last 6 months, showing a full face without any headgear
●A completed Registration Form of Temporary Residence for Visitors
● Any other documents that support your stay in China

You can fill out a paper form at the local police station or PSB office, or download a Word/PDF version from the official website to complete it. Make sure to have all the necessary documents in order to ensure a smooth application process.

Required Supporting Materials include:

How to Renew My Chinese Visa – Essential Procedures to Know

Step 1: Begin by locating the nearest PSB office or Police Station in the area where you are currently residing.

Step 2: Once you have found the office, visit in person to explain your situation and request assistance. Obtain the necessary application form and familiarize yourself with the application process and any additional requirements. It is recommended to obtain their contact number in case you need to make an online reservation.

Step 3: Gather all the required documents mentioned above, submit them to the office, and pay the applicable application fees.

Step 4: Be prepared to respond to inquiries from the Exit & Entry Administration Department of the PSB. Cooperate with any verification processes that may be required, whether through phone calls or other means. If requested, attend a personal interview at the scheduled time.

Step 5: Once the process is complete, collect your passport with the newly issued Chinese Visa.

Note:By following these steps diligently, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process for your Chinese Visa.

Normally, applicants are required to apply in person. However, in certain situations, such as being under 16 years old, over 60 years old, having mobility difficulties or other illnesses, or being a non-first entry visitor with a good residence record, the submission can be done by a representative such as a relative, the inviting unit, or an agent. Additionally, if all living expenses of the foreigner are guaranteed by the inviting unit or individual, a representative may also submit the application.

In some major cities like Beijing and Guangzhou, an online system has been implemented to streamline the application process, allowing applicants to complete the application form and schedule appointments online.

China Visa Renewal Fees

The application fees vary depending on the specific case and number of entries, with costs ranging from CNY 160 to CNY 672. The visa fee schedules provided below are for reference purposes only. For the most up-to-date information on costs, we recommend contacting or visiting the local Public Security Bureau.

Additionally, please note that the Zero Entry Chinese Visa is a one-time exit visa intended for visitors who have exceeded the permitted length of stay.

China Visa Renewal/Extension Fees for Countries on Non-reciprocal Basis (Except US, UK…):

Zero/Single Entry Visa (per person)	Double Entries Visa	Multiple Entries Visa for 6 Months and above	Multiple Entries Visa for 1 Year to 5 Years
CNY 160/168	CNY 252	CNY 420	CNY 672
Single Entry Group Visa (per person)	Double Entries Group Visa	Group Visa Separation	Travel Companion Adding/Reducing
CNY 130	CNY 170	CNY 160	CNY 160

Tips:If you possess a passport from the US, UK, Russia, Poland, or any other reciprocal country, please reach out to us for information on the specific fees applicable.

How to Apply for a Visa Extension in China

Due to the vast size of China, travelers may find that they need more time to fully explore the country. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the authorized period granted by your Chinese Visa, it is necessary to obtain an extension from the Exit & Entry Administration Office of the Public Security Bureau at least 7 days before the visa expires. It is important to note that extensions can only be granted once or twice, and the total length of the extension cannot exceed the original duration of stay specified on the initial Chinese Visa.

Chinese Visa Extension Requirements

How long can I extend my Chinese visa for? What documents do I need to prepare? The duration and requirements for the extension vary depending on your current visa category. All applicants are required to submit the following necessary documents.

To apply for a Chinese visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

●Your valid passport and previous Chinese visa
● The original and a photocopy of the Registration Form of Temporary Residence for Foreign Visitors (updated with your most recent passport information)
●Accommodation registration must be completed within 24 hours of entering China
● A completed Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form, along with a recent 2-inch photo (full face, no head covering)
● Additional supporting documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for:
● For Tourist (L) Visa: travel plans and itinerary, or additional documents if traveling in a group
● For Business (M) Visa: certification letter from the local host organization, or Certificate of Registration if the company is not registered
●For Family Reunion (Q2) Visa: invitation letter, ID certification, and proof of family relationship
● For Short-term Student (X2) Visa: certificate of enrollment from a Chinese educational institution

Please ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submitting your visa application.

Tips:

1.) The length of stay allowed varies depending on the type of visa. For example, the L Visa allows for a maximum of 30 days, while the F/M/X2/Q2/R Visa allows for up to 180 days.
2.) The Public Security Bureau (PSB) may require an interview or additional documents. In most cases, all applicants must comply and submit the requested materials, or else their extension application will not be processed.

If you are looking to extend your Chinese visa in Beijing, you can schedule an appointment online and access the latest guidelines at https://zwfw.gaj.beijing.gov.cn/rp/.

The Processing Time

Typically, the Public Security Bureau (PSB) will make a decision regarding the approval of a visa extension within 7 working days after receiving all necessary application documents. If your Chinese visa is successfully extended, you will be able to remain in China without the need to return to your home country for a new application.

About Chinese Visa Reissuance

Foreigners who have lost, damaged, or had their passport stolen can apply for a reissued Chinese Visa, Stay Certificate, and Residence Permit. The application process will be completed within 7 working days upon receipt.

If your passport is lost or stolen while in China, you must provide a certificate of loss report for the passport or a diplomatic note from your country’s embassy or consulate in China, along with your new passport or other valid international travel document.

If your Chinese Visa is damaged, you will need to submit the damaged passport or a diplomatic note from your country’s embassy or consulate in China, along with your new valid passport or international travel document.

In the case of a lost, stolen, or damaged Group Tourist Visa, you must provide a proof letter from the travel agency and a copy of the Group Tourist Visa.

About China Temporary Residence Registration

In accordance with official laws and regulations, all foreigners visiting or residing in China are required to complete temporary residence registration within 24 hours of their arrival. Failure to do so may result in a warning and penalty.

If you are staying in a hotel in China, the hotel staff will assist in completing the registration process with the necessary information. If you are staying in a rented apartment or a friend’s house, either you or your host must ensure that the registration is completed.

☞ Where to register in China?

To complete your registration, please visit the nearest Public Security Bureau or police station in your area.

☞ When to do the registration?

Upon arrival in China, it is imperative that you complete the registration process within 24 hours in urban areas and within 72 hours in rural areas. It is important to note that a second entry with the same visa is not necessary. However, if there are any changes to your passport, visa, or temporary living address, you must re-register within 10 days.

☞ What kind of documents are needed?

Please provide the following documents for processing: your original passport, a copy of the data page, visa page, and sealed entry page; a recent photo; a copy of your house rental agreement; and any other relevant documents.

FAQs and Useful Tips on China Visa Renewal and Extension

1. Can I change my Chinese Visa type?

Once you have submitted your visa application, you are unable to change the visa type. However, if needed, you can apply to renew your Chinese Visa after entering China.

2. Can I use my Chinese Visa in my old passport?

Yes, you are able to use a Chinese visa that is in your old passport as long as it is still valid. However, it is important to note that you must have both your old passport with the valid Chinese visa and your new passport with you when traveling.

3. What should I do if I lost my passport along with my Chinese Visa in China?

To begin the process of replacing your lost passport and travel documents, follow these three steps:

1. Report the loss to the local police office or Public Security Bureau (PSB) immediately. This is crucial in order to protect yourself from identity theft and to start the process of obtaining new documents.

2. Apply for a new passport from the embassy or consulate of your country in China. They will guide you through the necessary steps and paperwork required to issue you a new passport.

3. Apply for a new Chinese visa, residence permit, or exit document from the local immigration officials. This step is essential to ensure that you have the proper documentation to legally stay in China or leave the country.

By following these steps promptly and accurately, you can minimize the inconvenience caused by the loss of your documents and ensure a smooth transition to obtaining new ones.