Visa on Arrival

Foreign nationals holding ordinary passports who have urgent needs to enter China but do not have enough time to apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates abroad can apply for port visas for entry. Foreign nationals applying for port visas can submit applications in advance to the port visa authorities by themselves or through inviting parties, or apply on site upon arrival at ports in China.

Please visit the official website of the National Immigration Administration for a list of Q&As on China’s port visas.

(I) Scope of Application

Shenzhen port visas are primarily applicable to the following urgent entry situations, and individual tourism purposes are generally not accepted:

· Urgent business activities 

· Humanitarian reasons 

· Non-diplomatic or official activities

· Group tourism: Only applicable to group tours (2 people or more) organized by travel agencies

(II) List of Required Documents

The following documents must be prepared:

1. A valid passport or other international travel document: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended entry date into China.

2. Documents proving the urgent reason:

· Urgent business activities: An invitation letter from the inviting unit, explaining the business purpose, emergency situation, main itinerary, and supporting documents (e.g., cooperation contracts, meeting notices, etc.).

· Humanitarian reasons: Hospital certificates, death certificates, proof of kinship, etc.

· Other reasons: Provide corresponding supporting documents, such as invitation letters for exchanges, proof of investment or entrepreneurship.

3. A fully completed Port Visa Application Form: Usually available at the port visa counter.

4. Other potentially required documents: For example, business license copies of the inviting unit, the applicant’s previous travel records to China, etc. (It is advisable to inquire in advance).

(III) Application Process

1. Inquire in advance: Before traveling, contact the Shenzhen port visa authority at the intended entry port via phone (you can call the 12367 service hotline) or email to inquire about specific required documents, procedures, and

2. Arrive at the port: Arrive at a Shenzhen port that offers port visa services.

3. Submit the application: Go to the port visa counter and submit all prepared application materials.

4. Pay the fee: After approval, pay the visa fee. The fee is generally around RMB 1,000 per person (cash or credit card payments are accepted).

5. Collect the visa: After payment, collect the visa at the designated counter. Shenzhen port visa processing is highly efficient and is typically completed within 30 minutes.