China Visa Extension – Process, Fees & Documents

If you’re an Indian tourist looking to extend your stay in China beyond the original visa validity, you’re in the right place. 

This guide provides all the details you need to successfully apply for a China visa extension, including the requirements, fees, and necessary documents.

Image Source

Types of China Visa Extension

China visa extension for Indians is possible. The L-visa is eligible for an extension. Here are the details:

• L – Tourist Visa is the standard visa issued to tourists
• The visa can be extended for 30 days
• Extension is subject to the approval of the local PSB Exit and Entry Administration office.
• The total extended stay period must not exceed the original visa duration.

While there is no strict cap on the number of extensions for China tourist visas, you must process each China visa extension application for Indians separately.

However, the cumulative extended stay cannot exceed the initial visa validity period.

Key Extension Criteria:

• Unforeseen circumstances
• Personal or family reasons
• Ongoing travel plans in China
• Compliance with visa conditions

Now, let’s dive into China visa extension fees for Indians.

China Visa Extension Fees

The China tourist visa extension online fees can vary based on the following factors:

Visa Type	Age	Fees
L-type Tourist Visa	Adult	Fees are typically similar to or slightly lower than the initial visa application fees (around INR 5,761/-)
	Children	Generally uniform fees, but may vary based on local regulations

Extra Charges:

• Please note that OneVasco service fees will be charged in addition to embassy or consulate fees.
• Additional fees (if the sponsored person is inside the country)

Must Read: China Visa – E-Visa Requirements, Eligibility & How To Apply

Are You Eligible for a China Visa Extension?

To extend your China tourist visa, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Application Timing: Submit your visa extension request at least 7 days before your current visa expires. The Public Security Bureau (PSB) will not accept applications once the authorized stay period ends, so plan ahead.
2. Purpose of Stay: Your visa extension must be for tourism. If you’re applying for an L-visa extension, provide an updated travel itinerary. If you’re part of a group tour, include a certification letter from your travel agency confirming the tour’s details.
3. Adherence to Visa Conditions: You must comply with the terms of your initial visa. Engaging in prohibited activities, such as working on a tourist visa, could result in a rejected extension and negatively affect future applications.
4. Financial Stability & Insurance: While it’s not a strict requirement, it’s advisable to demonstrate sufficient funds for your extended stay. Additionally, valid travel insurance is recommended to ensure your health and safety during the extended period.
5. Clean Visa History: A history of overstays, cancellations, or refusals can hinder your eligibility for an extension. Having a clean visa record will enhance your chances of approval.
6. Submission Location: Apply for your visa extension directly at a county-level or higher PSB Exit and Entry Administration office in China. Extensions cannot be processed from outside China.

Must Read: China Visa Extension for Indians

Documents Required for China Visa Extensions

To extend your China tourist visa, ensure you have the following updated documents:

1. Passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages for stamps.
2. A photocopy of the passport’s biographical page and current visa page.
3. Completed visa extension application form, including Stay Permit or Residence Permit, if applicable.
4. Two recent passport-sized photos (48mm×33mm), with a front-facing view, showing your bare head.
5. Travel itinerary with detailed dates, destinations, and activities, outlining the duration of your stay.
6. Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in China (if applicable).
7. Temporary residence registration form showing proof of stay in China.
8. For group tourists: A certification letter from the travel agency confirming group travel details.

 Note-

• Applications are liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photographs are not clear or do not per the given specification.
• Visa Appointments are subject to availability.
• Any applicant may be asked to provide additional documents at the Embassy’s discretion.
• Processing days will be calculated once all documents have been submitted in accordance with embassy requirements.

Must Read: China Visa Photo Size Requirement & Specification Guide

How to Apply for a China Visa Extension?

Online Extension Application Steps

As of the latest update, Sri Lanka now offers an online application process for visa extensions. Indian tourists can apply for an extension through the official Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration website. To apply online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration portal.
2. Create an account or log in to your existing profile.
3. Fill out the visa extension form, providing details like your passport information and current visa status.
4. Upload required documents (passport, visa details, etc.).
5. Pay the extension fee through the online payment gateway.
6. Wait for confirmation and approval. You will receive an updated visa via email.

Must Read: Visa Free Countries for China Passport Holders [Including VOA, eVisa & ETA]

In-Person Extension Application Steps

If you prefer to apply in person for a Sri Lanka visa extension, you can visit the nearest Department of Immigration and Emigration office. Here’s how:

1. Locate the nearest immigration office, such as the one in Colombo.
2. Bring along your passport, current visa, completed extension form, recent passport-size photos, and any supporting documents (e.g., travel itinerary, proof of accommodation).
3. Submit the documents in person at the office.
4. Pay the visa extension fee at the office.
5. Wait for the processing of your application. After approval, your visa extension will be stamped in your passport.

Must Read: Check China Visa Application Status Online

China Visa Extension Processing Time & Next Steps

The processing time for a China visa extension for Indian tourists is typically 7 working days from the date the application is submitted.

During this period, you can legally stay in China with the acceptance receipt issued by the PSB. Once approved, the new visa will be issued, and the old one will be canceled simultaneously.

While your China visa extension application is being processed, you cannot travel outside of Mainland China until a decision is made. Doing so will result in the immediate withdrawal of your application.

Must Read: Book China Visa Appointment – Online Slot Booking

FAQs

1. How can an Indian apply for a China visa extension?

Follow these steps to apply for a China visa extension for Indian citizens:

1. Ensure your reason for extension aligns with the permissible grounds under Chinese regulations.
2. Prepare the required documents, including your passport, current visa, completed application form, recent photo, registration form of temporary residence, and proof of reasons for extension.
3. Submit the application in person at the local PSB Exit and Entry Administration office.
4. Wait for the final decision, typically made within 7 working days.

2. What are the reasons for granting a China visa extension to Indians?

China tourist visa extensions are granted under certain circumstances, such as:

• Unforeseen events
• Ongoing travel plans in China
• Personal or family reasons
• Compliance with visa conditions

3. What documents are needed for a China visa extension for Indians?

For a China visa extension for Indians, you must submit several essential documents:

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity, along with the current visa.
• Applicants are required to complete an application form
• Two recent passport-style photos.
• An itinerary plan as proof of the reason for the extension
• Accommodation proof
• A certification letter from the travel agency concerned shall be submitted for group tourists.

4. How long before expiration should Indians apply for a China visa extension?

It is best to apply for a China visa extension at least 7 days before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying penalties.

5. Can an Indian extend a China visa beyond its standard validity?

Indians can extend their L-type tourist visa for a maximum of 30 days at a time. The total extended stay periods must not exceed the original visa duration.

6. How long does a China visa extension take?

A China visa extension for Indians typically takes 7 working days to process after submitting all required documents.