Looking for China tourist visa from Sri Lanka?
If you are reading this, we believe that you are planning to visit China or someone who is looking for information regarding the process.
Either way, you are in the right place.
Visiting China is something that many Sri Lankans dream of.
This is because it’s a fascinating country that combines old-world aspects with modern ideas.
Therefore, if you’re a Sri Lankan traveller who is dreaming about walking the Great Wall or checking out Shanghai’s modern skyline, you’ll need to know about getting a visa.
In fact, this is something that you must have in order to visit there.
So, let’s break down what you need to know to get your documents in order to make your way into China.
Types of Chinese Tourist Visas
If you’re heading to China as a tourist, you’ll need what’s called an L visa.
You can typically stay between 30 to 90 days with this visa.
As a matter of fact, first-time visitors usually get a single-entry visa, but if you’ve been to China before or have good reasons for multiple visits, you might get a multiple-entry visa.
On the other hand, if you are travelling with a group, you have an option for this as well.
In fact, there’s a special group visa option where everyone can enter and leave China together.
Basic Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens
Let’s talk about what you need as a Sri Lankan passport holder.
In this case, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after your stay, and you’ll need two empty pages in it.
Moreover, you’ll have to show that you have enough money for your trip. Where you can share your bank statements to prove yourself.
While it’s not always required, getting travel insurance for medical emergencies is a smart move.
Therefore, make sure to consider this as well.
Note: Having your return ticket ready by is a good move as well because it shows that you’ve planned your trip properly.
Visa Application Process
In this case, you’ll need to deal with the Chinese Embassy in Colombo for your visa.
As the first step, start by registering online through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center’s website.
Then, fill out the forms in it and book an appointment.
When you visit the embassy, bring your documents and be ready to pay the fee.
Usually, the amount depends on what type of visa you want and how quickly you need it.
Plus, it takes 4-7 working days to process, but you can pay extra for a faster service.
Note: Sometimes, they might want to talk to you in person regarding your travel plans.
Required Documents Checklist
Getting your documents in the perfect way is the main source for your visa.
In this case, your passport should be valid for obvious reasons.
Moreover, fill out the visa form in English, and don’t forget to sign and date it.
Plus, you’ll need recent passport photos that meet their specific requirements.
Usually, your photos should be 33mm x 48mm in size and must be taken against a white or near-white background.
In addition to that, book your hotels for the whole trip and write down what you plan to do each day.
Then, have your flight bookings ready for both arrival and departure.
Note: Your bank statements and the balance confirmation letter from the last three months should show that you have a steady income and enough money for the trip.
Special Considerations
Think about the dates that you’re applying for a visa.
As in during busy times like Chinese New Year or Golden Week, it might take longer to get your visa.
Therefore, make sure to consider it in advance.
Moreover, some parts of China have their own rules about visiting, so look into those as well.
Besides, these days, you might need extra paperwork or tests for COVID-19, and you might have to quarantine.
Note: You can extend your visa in China if you really need to, but don’t count on it. Our advice is to plan your trip length properly from the start.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People often run into problems that are easy to prevent.
Sometimes forms aren’t filled out completely, signatures are missing, or information is not up to date.
Therefore, look into these more carefully.
Also, don’t wait until the last minute. This is because rushed applications often get rejected.
Additionally, make sure that you have enough proof of your finances and a clear travel plan.
Note: Make sure that all your documents tell the same story about why you’re visiting just like in your application.
Tips for a Successful Application
Try to visit the embassy between Tuesday to Thursday in the morning when it’s less busy.
To prevent any silly mistakes, keep your documents organized and in order.
On the bright side, if they want to interview you, know your travel plans well and be ready to talk about those.
Note: Keep copies of everything that you submit, this is because you might need those later.
Emergency Contacts and Resources
You can always contact the Chinese Embassy in Colombo on 0112 688 610 for visa questions and any emergencies.
Also, check their website for the latest requirements and announcements.
Moreover, many travel agencies in Sri Lanka know a lot about Chinese visas and can help you out with your questions as well.
Note: You can also find helpful tips online from other Sri Lankan travellers who’ve been to China.
Getting a Chinese tourist visa takes some work, but it’s totally possible to do if you work in the right way.
Therefore, plan ahead, keep your documents organized, and stay up to date with what’s required.
Anyway, just remember that visa rules can change, so double-check the current requirements before applying.
So, as we told you before, follow our essential tips and adhere to their rules to fall to the green side of your visa process.
In that way, if you prepare well and follow all the requirements, you’ll be all set to explore this amazing country without facing any issues.
Contact Travelco to book China tour packages from Sri Lanka.
Editorial Staff at Travelco are experts in Global Tourism.