Travelling to China has never been more rewarding, but there is one step you cannot skip: Vietnamese passport holders still need a visa to enter China. This guide walks you through the process clearly so you can prepare your application with confidence.
⚠️ Important notice: The information below can change at any time. Please verify with the Chinese Embassy / Consulate or the Chinese Visa Application Service Center before submitting your application. Last updated: 31 May 2026.
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for China?
Yes. Unlike some nationalities that benefit from China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy, Vietnam is currently not on the list of countries eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit. For independent leisure travel, you must apply for a tourist (L) visa before departure.
What is the L visa?
The L visa is issued for tourism and sightseeing. For a trip of up to 15 days, you are typically granted:
- A single-entry visa, valid for 3 months from the date of issue
- A maximum stay that is usually 15 days per entry
If you plan to travel back and forth, double-entry or multiple-entry visas with longer validity may be available, depending on your file and the issuing authority's decision.
Documents you will need
The list below covers the documents usually required. Always cross-check the latest instructions from the Visa Center:
- Original passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank pages.
- A photocopy of the passport's information page.
- The visa application form, completed online, printed and signed.
- A recent passport photo on a white background, 48mm x 33mm, front-facing.
- Round-trip flight booking (printed confirmation).
- Hotel booking confirmation covering your entire stay.
- In some cases you may also be asked for: household registration, bank statements, proof of employment, or a detailed itinerary.
The application process
The procedure has changed recently:
- Apply online: Log in to the China Online Visa Application system, complete the form and upload your documents.
- Book and submit at the Visa Center: Once the status shows that your passport must be submitted, bring your file to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center — currently located in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City (you no longer submit directly at the Embassy or Consulate as in the past).
- Pay the fee and collect your pick-up slip.
- Collect your passport on the date shown on the slip.
Fingerprint exemption (temporary policy)
Between 21 December 2025 and 31 December 2026, applicants for short-term visas (stays under 180 days) are exempt from fingerprinting. This is a time-limited policy — confirm it again before you apply.
How long does processing take?
- Standard: about 5–7 working days.
- Express / rush: can be shortened to 2–3 working days (usually with an extra fee).
Tip: apply at least 2–3 weeks before your flight to allow for any unexpected requests.
Frequently asked questions
I'm doing a 10-day trip through Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai — which visa do I need? A single-entry L visa is enough. A 10-day itinerary fits well within the usual permitted stay.
Is an interview required? Most tourist applications do not require one, but the issuing authority may request additional documents or an interview if needed.
I have flights and hotels but don't want to fully prepay — what should I do? Book flexible / refundable flights and hotels for the application, then confirm your final bookings once the visa is granted.
Do children need their own visa? Yes. Every traveller, including children, needs their own passport and visa. Minors may also need a birth certificate and their parents' documents.
Final word
Getting a China visa is straightforward when you prepare fully and apply on time. Because the rules can change, always check the official information before submitting. If you would like help preparing your file, planning your route and booking high-speed trains, we are happy to guide you toward a smooth, memorable trip.
Information may change — please verify with the Chinese Embassy. Updated: 31 May 2026.