How to Apply for a Chinese Visa for Filipinos: Complete Guide, Rates & Requirements

China has always been on my bucket list, but I never really thought about visiting it sooner—until an opportunity to visit Shenzhen came up. Excited yet slightly anxious (as a Philippine passport holder), I braced myself for what I expected to be a tedious visa application process. But to my surprise, it was way easier than I imagined! If you’re planning to visit China soon, here’s how to apply for a Chinese visa for Filipinos—step by step. From requirements to processing times, I’ve got you covered so you can get that visa hassle-free and focus on the fun part: planning your trip!

Types of Chinese Visa for Filipinos

The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Here are the most common types for Filipino travelers:

• L Visa (Tourist Visa) – For those visiting China for leisure or sightseeing.
• M Visa (Business Visa) – For business-related activities like trade fairs and client meetings.
• X Visa (Student Visa) – For those enrolling in Chinese educational institutions.
• Z Visa (Work Visa) – Required for individuals working in China.
• F Visa (Exchange or Research Visa) – For academic, cultural, and research exchanges.

Chinese Visa Requirements for Filipinos

To apply for a Chinese visa for Filipinos, you need to prepare the following documents:

1. Passport – Must be valid for at least six months with at least one blank visa page.
2. Passport-Sized Photo – A recent colored photo with a white background.
3. Travel Itinerary – Proof of your intended travel dates and activities.
4. Roundtrip Flight Ticket Reservation – Must include confirmed departure and return dates.
5. Hotel Booking Confirmation – Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay.
6. Bank Certificate & Bank Statement – Shows financial capability to cover travel expenses.
7. Certificate of Employment – Includes details such as job position, salary, and tenure (for employed applicants).
8. Business Registration & Permit – Required for self-employed applicants.
9. Invitation Letter (if applicable) – For those invited by a Chinese citizen or organization.4

Chinese Visa Application Fees for Filipinos

The visa fee varies depending on the number of entries you require. As of the latest update, here are the rates:

Visa Type	Fee (PHP)
Single Entry	1,400
Double Entry	2,100
Multiple Entry (6 months)	2,800
Multiple Entry (1 year)	4,200

Note: Fees are subject to change, so it’s best to check with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate for the latest rates.

Where to Apply for a Chinese Visa in the Philippines

Filipino applicants must submit their applications through the Chinese Embassy or Consulates-General in the Philippines. Here are the locations:

• Chinese Embassy in Manila – 6th floor, Noble Square, 6762 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Manila
• Consulate General in Cebu – 46 Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City
• Consulate General in Davao – J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City

• Important notes on Visa Application Center:
• The Visa Application Center accepts application 9:00 AM to 3:00. If you wish to avail the rush service, come before 11:30 AM.
• You may pay and collect your passport from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM only.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Chinese Visa for Filipinos

1. Complete the Visa Application Form – Fill out the application form on visaforchina.cn. Ensure all details are accurate and complete. Don’t forget to save the page every now and then.
2. Gather Required Documents – Prepare and organize the necessary documents based on your visa type.
3. Submit Your Application – Visit the appropriate embassy or consulate to submit your documents. They also accept walk ins.
4. Pay the Visa Fee – Payment is made upon submission. Retain the official receipt and claiming stub.
5. Wait for Processing – Standard processing time is four to five business days. Express services is available at an additional cost.
6. Claim Your Passport with Visa – If approved, collect your passport with the visa on the designated pick-up date.

The Online Visa Application Form

Preliminaries

1. Go to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website.

2. Choose your passport type and input your passport’s validity date.

3. Select your purpose of visit.

4. Click ‘Start a Form‘. This will direct you to another page where you need to create an account to their website.

5. Read the Instructions carefully and click agree and proceed.

6. Log in to your account on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website to start filling in the application form.

7. Read the Instructions Carefully then click ‘Fill in a Form‘.

Part I: Personal Information

Part I includes various section on your Personal Information. This requires you to accurately input own personal information including name, latest photo, birth information, gender, marital status, nationality and permanent residence, passport, work experience, income, education and family information.

Part II: Type of Visa

Part II, on the other hand, requires you to input information about the type of visa you’re applying for and your initial intended duration of stay in the country.

Part III: Information About Your Intended Trip

Part III, then, requires your intended trip information including your flights, port of entry and exit, who will pay for the trip, inviter’s information (if invited or necessary) and your previous trip out of the country.

Part IV: Other Information

Review and Confirmation

After filling in the form, review them to ensure that you have input correct information. Finally, click ‘I have read and understood all of the above‘ after reading the declaration. Download the form and print it.

If ever you missed out on completing the form in one sitting and suppose you have saved each page, you may always come back to it to continue filling it in.

Reminders and Tips on how to apply for Chinese Visa Application for Filipinos

• Check the schedule of holidays from their website from time to time to know when the application center is open.
• Apply Early – Start your application at least one month before your planned departure.
• Ensure Accuracy – Any errors in your application can result in delays or rejection.
• Maintain a Strong Financial Record – A stable bank account increases approval chances.
• Dress Appropriately – When visiting the China Visa Application Center, wear clothes that do not show skin. DO NOT wear sleeveless blouses, short skirts and crop tops for women.
• For the passport size photo, make sure that the background is white. See to it as well that you are dressed smartly, and you are not wearing any accessories. Show your ears and do not wear loud make up (for women).
• The CVASC offers free use of computer with internet. They could also take photos for you at Php 200.00 and print your documents for Php 10.00 per page.
• Taking of photos is strictly prohibited in the facility.

In a Nutshell,

Applying for a Chinese visa for Filipinos is straightforward if you prepare the necessary documents and follow the correct process. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or studies, securing a visa is the key to experiencing China’s rich history, culture, and modern wonders. Stay updated with the latest requirements, fees, and policies from the Chinese Embassy to ensure a hassle-free application. Now, you’re one step closer to your dream trip to China!