Planning a trip to China from India but unsure how to secure a visa appointment? Booking a China visa appointment online is straightforward if you follow the official process.
This guide explains how to schedule your appointment, prepare the required documents, and complete the interview successfully, helping you get your China visa without delays.
How to Schedule a China Visa Appointment?
The China visa appointment booking procedure involves completing an online application and submitting your documents at a Visa Application Service Center. Let’s look at the detailed steps.
Online Steps to Book a China Visa Appointment
Follow these steps to book your China visa appointment online:
Step 1: Fill Out the Online Application Form
- Visit the China Online Visa Application (COVA) website and create an account.
- Fill out the visa application form accurately with your personal, travel, and employment details.
- Print the completed application form.
Step 2: How to Book a China Visa Appointment
- Log in to your COVA account and click on ‘Apply for Visa’.
- Choose a convenient date and time slot based on the China visa appointment availability.
- Complete the payment process for your China visa appointment using the available online payment methods.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
- Organize your supporting documents as per the checklist, including your passport, application form, photo, and proof of travel arrangements.
- Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and two blank pages.
Step 4: Visit the Visa Application Center
- Arrive at the Visa Application Service Center 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
- Submit your passport, application form, and supporting documents.
- Provide biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs.
Visiting the Visa Application Center in person is mandatory for your China visa appointment. Keep these points in mind:
Step 1: Arrive on Time
- Reach the VAC 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
- No representatives or agents are allowed on your behalf.
Step 2: Submit Your Biometrics
- Provide your fingerprints on a digital scanner. Ensure your fingertips are free from cuts, abrasions, or decorative elements like henna/mehendi.
- Have a digital photograph clicked against a white background. Keep your face clearly visible without sunglasses or head coverings (unless for religious reasons).
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
- If you’ve opted for the ‘Assisted Service’, submit your original passport and supporting documents to the VAC staff.
- The staff will verify your documents and may ask additional questions about your application.
Note: Children under 14 years and adults over 70 years are exempted from biometrics collection. Those unable to provide fingerprints due to medical reasons must submit a doctor’s certificate.
Must Read: China Visa Extension for Indians
Offline Process
There is no offline process for scheduling China visa appointments. You must fill out the application form and book your appointment through the COVA website.
Must Read: China Visa Photo Size Requirement & Specification Guide
Which Locations are Available in India for a China Visa Appointment?
Here are the major cities with China Visa Application Centers and their details:
New Delhi
- Address: Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Floor, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
- Hours: 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday to Friday
Mumbai
- Address: No. 66 Rajgir Chambers, 12 Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Opp. Crisil House, Fort, Mumbai 400001
- Hours: 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday to Friday
Chennai
- Address: No. 41, Subramanian Street, Alandur, Opposite to Alandur Metro Railway Station, Chennai 600016
- Hours: 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday to Friday
Kolkata
- Address: 55 Chowringhee Road, 2nd Floor, Lansdowne Terrace, Kolkata 700071
- Hours: 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday to Friday
For a complete list of China Visa Application Centers in India, visit the China Embassy website.
Must Read: How To Book China Visa Appointment – OneVasco Blog
Documents Needed for a China Visa Appointment
- Valid Passport: Original, signed, with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the online form, print it, and sign the confirmation page.
- Recent Photograph: Passport-sized (48mm x 33mm), taken within six months, white background, neutral expression, no glasses/hats.
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking or invitation letter from host in China; kinship certificate if visiting family.
- Round-Trip Flight Tickets: Confirmed itinerary showing entry and exit from China.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements from last 3–6 months showing sufficient funds for the stay.
- Additional Documents (if applicable): Employment letter or student ID, invitation letter from Chinese organization, or family kinship certificate.
Note:
- Applications are liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear or as per the given specification.
- Visa Appointments are subject to availability.
- Any applicant may be asked to provide additional documents as per Embassy’s discretion.
- Processing days will be calculated once all documents have been submitted in accordance with embassy requirements.
What is the Waiting Time for the China Visa Appointment?
As per the latest information from the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in India, applicants can submit their China visa applications without a prior appointment. Standard processing takes 4 – 7 working days, express service takes 2 – 3 working days, and urgent service may take 24 hours with extra charges. Apply at least one month before travel and ensure all documents are complete.
Must Read: Check China Visa Application Status Online
Preparing for the Interview
Now that you know the steps to book a China visa appointment, here’s how you can prepare for a successful visa interview.
What questions can I expect during my China visa interview?
Be prepared to answer these common China tourist visa interview questions:
- What is the purpose of your visit to China?
- How long do you intend to stay in China?
- Where will you be staying in China?
- Have you booked your flight tickets and accommodation?
- How will you fund your trip?
- Do you have any friends or relatives in China?
- Have you visited China before? If yes, when and for what purpose?
- Do you have a criminal record, or have you ever been deported?
What is the Dress Code for China Visa Appointment?
While there is no strict dress code, it’s best to dress in neat, professional attire for your China visa appointment. Business casual clothing is appropriate. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or flip-flops.
Make sure your face is clearly visible in the photograph. Do not wear sunglasses, caps, or hats. Religious head coverings are allowed as long as your facial features are visible.
What are the Tips for a Successful China Visa Appointment?
- Fill out the online application for a China visa appointment accurately and completely. Review it multiple times before submission.
- Book your China visa appointment well in advance to get your desired China embassy appointment date and time slot.
- Pay attention to the required documents for China visa appointments and keep them organized.
- Reach the Visa Application Center 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
- Dress professionally and carry yourself confidently.
- Answer the visa officer’s questions honestly and clearly. Maintain eye contact and a friendly demeanor.
- Keep track of your visa application status through your COVA account.
Post-Interview: What are the Next Steps?
- Check your China visa application status online through your COVA account.
- Track updates via email or SMS from the Visa Application Center.
- Promptly respond to any requests for additional documents or information.
- Once your visa is approved, you will receive a call to collect your passport from the VAC, or it will be couriered to your address.
- Verify that the visa sticker on your passport has the correct validity dates, entries permitted, and personal information.
- In case of any discrepancies, contact the Visa Application Center immediately for rectification.
FAQs
1. Is it mandatory to visit the center personally? Can I send a representative to the application center on my behalf?
No, you must visit the China Visa Application Center in person for your visa appointment. Representatives or agents are not allowed to submit your application on your behalf.
2. How early should I apply for a China visa appointment?
It’s advisable to book your China visa appointment at least 1 month before your planned travel date. The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting your preferred date and time slot.
3. What is the waiting time for a China visa appointment?
The waiting time for a China visa appointment for Indians depends on the availability of slots at your selected Visa Application Center. Once you attend your appointment and submit your application, the standard processing time is 4 working days.
4. What questions can I expect during my China visa interview?
During your China visa interview, expect questions about your purpose of visit, duration of stay, accommodation, financial means, travel history, and employment status. Answer honestly and confidently.
5. Is there any dress code for the China visa appointment?
While there is no strict dress code, dress in neat, professional attire like business casuals for your China visa appointment. Avoid shorts, sleeveless shirts, caps, and sunglasses.
6. What steps can I take to avoid cancellation of my China visa appointment?
To avoid cancellation of your China visa appointment, arrive 15–30 minutes early, double-check your appointment details, and ensure all required documents are complete and accurate. If delayed, notify the Visa Application Center or embassy promptly to reschedule if possible.
7. Can I reschedule my China visa appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule your China visa appointment through your COVA account before the original appointment date. However, frequent rescheduling is not advisable as it may raise doubts about your intentions.
8. What is the process for requesting an expedited visa appointment?
To expedite a China visa, applicants can opt for Express or Rush services provided by Chinese embassies or consulates. The Express Service typically processes visas in 2–3 working days, while the Rush Service can complete the process in 1–2 working days.
9. Do babies need separate appointments for China visa applications?
Yes, each applicant, including babies, requires a separate visa application. Parents or guardians must complete the application on behalf of the child and submit relevant documents.
10. What happens if I arrive late for a China visa appointment in India?
If you arrive late, your appointment may be forfeited, and you will likely need to reschedule. Rescheduling may depend on the center’s availability and could prolong the process.
11. What is the easiest way to get a China visa slot for an interview?
The simplest way is to book an appointment through the official website of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center or the local embassy.
12. Is a China biometric appointment mandatory?
Biometric data collection (fingerprints) is mandatory for most visa applicants aged 14–70. Exceptions include diplomatic passport holders and individuals applying for specific visa categories under special exemptions.
