New Delhi:
The Chinese Embassy in India has launched the China Online Visa Application System, allowing Indian passport holders to apply for Chinese visas online, significantly simplifying the application process.
According to a report by Shenzhen-based online portal Greater Bay Area (GBA), the new system replaces the earlier paper-heavy procedure that required applicants to submit multiple documents in person. The embassy had earlier announced on its official WeChat account that the service would go live from December 22, 2025.
Under the new system, applicants can fill out visa forms, upload required documents and book biometric appointments online by visiting the official portal: visaforchina.cn.
What the New System Offers
The online visa application system covers major visa categories, including:
- Tourist (L)
- Business (M)
- Student (X)
- Work (Z)
Key benefits include:
- End-to-end digital submission of applications
- Reduction in consulate visits from two to just one (for biometrics)
- Real-time application status tracking
- Integration with UnionPay, allowing visa fee payments in Indian Rupees, helping applicants avoid foreign exchange mark-ups
While the application process has been streamlined, officials clarified that there are no changes to the existing security vetting procedures for visa applicants.
Move Comes Amid Improving India-China Ties
The development comes as India and China continue efforts to normalise bilateral relations following the resolution of a prolonged military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, which began in May 2020 and ended in October last year.
In recent months, both countries have agreed on several people-centric initiatives, including:
- Resumption of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra
- Restart of direct flights between India and China (resumed in October)
- Visa facilitation measures
- Commemoration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations
Earlier this year, India also resumed issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals and took steps to fast-track business visas for Chinese professionals.
The launch of the online visa system is expected to further ease travel, business exchanges and educational mobility between the two countries.