I just applied for a China tourist visa (visiting Shanghai and Beijing) and got my passport back with the stamp after 5 working days. Earlier this year, I heard that China waived visas for some countries, but for Vietnam, you still need a visa. I used to struggle because the procedures kept changing, so I wrote this article to save you the trouble.
Quick Info
- Best time: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November), cool weather, less rain.
- Suggested days: 5-7 days for one city, or 10-14 days if visiting multiple places.
- Budget estimate: About 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/day (including food, transport, sightseeing).
- Getting around: Metro is king! In big cities, buy a metro card or use Alipay to scan codes.
- Connectivity: Don't forget to buy a SimNha eSIM before you go. I used the 7-day China package, stable and no need to insert a physical SIM.
Required Documents
When submitting your application at the Chinese Embassy/Consulate, you need the following:
- Original passport: Valid for at least 6 months, with at least 2 blank pages.
- Visa application form: Fill it online on the CVAC website, print it out and sign. Be honest, especially the itinerary.
- Passport photos: 2 photos 4x6cm, white background, taken within the last 6 months.
- Flight and hotel booking confirmations: Book refundable ones just in case your visa is rejected.
- Travel insurance: Minimum coverage of 30,000 USD, including medical expenses and repatriation.
- Financial proof: Bank statements for the last 3 months (minimum balance 100 million VND), savings book, or property documents.
- Employment letter: If employed, get a letter from your company confirming salary and leave. If self-employed, provide business registration.
💡 Tip: If you don't have flight tickets yet, ask a travel agent to issue a temporary ticket (unpaid) or use a ticket reservation service. I was once rejected because I didn't show a return ticket.
Latest Procedures 2024
Compared to last year, there are some important changes:
1. Submit online first
You must fill out the application on the official website (cvac.vn) and print it. Handwritten forms are not accepted. You'll get a reference number, keep it for submission.
2. Appointment
You need to book an appointment online before going to submit. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, slots are often full for 2-3 weeks, so book early. I booked in Hanoi, arrived on time, and submitted within 30 minutes.
3. Fingerprints
All applicants aged 14 and above must provide fingerprints in person at the visa application center. Note: if you've given fingerprints within the last 59 months, you're exempt.
⚠️ Note: Before submitting, double-check all documents. I almost got rejected for missing a copy of my passport. Bring originals and 2 photocopies of each.
Practical Experience
Where to submit?
There are two Chinese visa application centers: Hanoi (44 Trang Tien) and Ho Chi Minh City (175 Hai Ba Trung). I submitted in Hanoi, the staff were helpful but it was crowded. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Processing time
Usually 4-5 working days. I submitted on Monday and got the result on Friday. You can choose to receive the result by post (extra 50,000 VND) or pick it up in person.
Fees
- Single entry visa: 1,100,000 VND (about 45 USD)
- Double entry visa: 1,650,000 VND
- CVAC service fee: 330,000 VND
💡 Tip: If you're only going once, don't apply for a double entry visa as it's more expensive. But if you plan to visit Hong Kong or Macau and return to China, apply for double entry.
Common Mistakes
- Unrealistic itinerary: Many people list 5 cities in 7 days. Consular officers will suspect you intend to overstay. List a reasonable itinerary, at least 2-3 days per city.
- Insufficient financial proof: Provide bank statements showing regular transactions, not just a savings book.
- Incorrect photos: White background, no glasses, no teeth showing. I had to retake because my old photo was too chubby.
⚠️ Note: If you are rejected, you can reapply but must explain the reason and provide additional documents. It usually takes another 2-3 weeks. Prepare carefully from the start.
Conclusion
Applying for a China visa is not too difficult, just make sure you understand the procedures and prepare all documents. I found that booking an appointment early and filling out the form accurately are key. Once you have the visa, just focus on the trip. Don't forget to buy a SimNha eSIM to have internet as soon as you land – I used it and found it very convenient, no need to look for a physical SIM.
