Applying for a China visa from Dubai requires a structured process at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai. UAE residents use this China visa from Dubai option for trips to China. You need a valid passport with 6+ months validity and a UAE residence visa with 90 days left. Start with the China Online Visa Application (COVA) form at cova.mfa.gov.cn.

The step-by-step guide is simple. First, fill out the online application. Complete the Visa Application Form. Add a recent Photo on a white background. Upload scans of Passport, UAE Residency, Proof of Travel like flight/hotel bookings, Financial Proof such as bank statement, No Objection Letter (NOC) from employer, and Invitation Letter if needed. Wait for email approval.

Next, book an appointment online. Walk-ins often work too. Then submit documents and biometrics in person. Bring originals to the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai in Bur Dubai on weekdays. Give fingerprints unless exempt.

Pay Fees on site with cash or card. Fees stay low until the end of 2026. Tourist visas cost about AED 300 to 500 by nationality. Collect Passport later.

Processing time is 4 working days for standard service. Express takes 2-3 days for an extra cost. Track online with your reference number. Prep all items well to avoid rejections. Holidays cause delays. 

What are the China Visa from Dubai Requirements?

The Documents require for a China visa from Dubai:

Here is the full list of required documents for your China visa from Dubai application, ordered by importance for UAE residents.

• Original Passport: Submit your original passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages.
• UAE residence visa ( valid for a minimum of 3 months): Provide a color copy of your UAE residence visa with at least 3 months validity remaining.
• Emirates ID: Include a copy of your Emirates ID card (front and back).
• 2 (two) Passport size Picture (white background): Bring two recent passport photos (33x48mm, white background, no headwear).
• Application Form: Complete and print the China Online Visa Application (COVA) form from cova.mfa.gov.cn with the confirmation page.
• NOC Letter: Get a No Objection Certificate from your employer on company letterhead stating position, salary, and approved leave.
• If Self Employed Trade license is required, and a self-introduction letter on company letterhead with a stamp: Self-employed applicants must submit UAE trade license copy plus a cover letter introducing your business (stamped).
• Invitation letter from China ( Business Purpose): For M visa, include an invitation letter from your Chinese host/company with their contact details, itinerary, and visa support.
• Proof of Travel: Show round-trip flight bookings and confirmed hotel reservations.
• Financial Proof: Submit 3-6 months personal bank statements showing sufficient funds (AED 5,000+ balance).

What are the Additional Requirements for a China Visa from Dubai?

The Additional Requirements for a China Visa:

UAE residents need these extras for a China visa from Dubai beyond the basics, prioritized by visa type at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai.

• Tourist (L Visa): Round-trip air tickets, hotel reservation proofs, Detailed Itinerary outlining your travel plans.
• Business (M Visa): An invitation letter from a Chinese entity/partner is required, along with their trade license; include an official invitation letter from a Chinese trade partner and a required invitation from Chinese company with company details.
• Invitation letter: Mandatory for business; must specify purpose, dates, and applicant info.
• For Self-Employed: A copy of the trade license and a self-introduction letter explaining your business and trip.
• Digital Photo: Upload during China Online Visa Application (COVA); also bring physical copies.
• For Minors: Birth certificate, parents’ passports/IDs, and consent letter.
• Previous Visas: Copies of old Chinese or international visas.
• Travel Record: Past travel history to show a strong profile.

How to Apply for a China Visa from Dubai?

The application process for China visa from Dubai:

UAE residents follow this simple list to secure a China visa from Dubai at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai. Start with basics and move to submission.

• Check the visa requirements: Review Tourist (L Visa) or Business (M Visa) rules, including Original Passport, UAE residence visa ( valid for a minimum 3 months ), and extras like invitation letter or NOC Letter.
• Complete online visa application form: Fill China Online Visa Application (COVA) form at cova.mfa.gov.cn with Digital Photo and scans; print confirmation.
• Book Appointment: Optional via portal; walk-ins work post-approval weekdays.
• Prepare your documents: Gather 2 (two) Passport size Picture (white background), Emirates ID, Proof of Travel, Financial Proof, If Self-Employed items, and Detailed Itinerary.
• Submit Documents: Bring originals to center for biometrics.
• Pay Fees: Cash/card on-site.
• Collect your visa: Pick up Passport after 4 days; track online.

What are the China Tourist Visa Requirements from Dubai?

The Requirements for China Tourist Visa (L Visa):

UAE residents need these key items for a China visa from Dubai tourist (L Visa), listed by order and importance at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai.

• Original passport (valid for more than 6 months): Submit with 2 blank pages.
• Valid UAE residence (Minimum 3 Months Validity): Color copy showing 3+ months left.
• Copy of valid Emirates ID (front and back): Full photocopy.
• Application Form: Printed China Online Visa Application (COVA) form from cova.mfa.gov.cn.
• Passport Size Photo with a white background: Two recent 33x48mm photos.
• Itinerary: Detailed travel plan with Round-trip air tickets and hotel reservation proofs.
• NOC Letter from Sponsor: Employer letter approving leave and salary details.
• Bank Statement: 3-6 months showing sufficient funds.
• Invitation Letter: From Chinese host (optional but strengthens case).

What are the China Business Visa Requirements from Dubai?

The Requirements for China Business (M) Visa from Dubai:

UAE residents need these prioritized documents for a China visa from Dubai Business (M) Visa at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai, ordered by importance.

• a valid passport (6+ months validity): Original with 2 blank pages.
• UAE Residence Visa: Color copy valid for 3+ months.
• a completed online application form: Printed China Online Visa Application (COVA) form from cova.mfa.gov.cn.
• One recent color photo with a white background: Passport-sized (33x48mm).
• an official invitation letter from a Chinese partner: With itinerary, company details, and support confirmation.
• a trade license copy: From Chinese inviter.
• NOC from the employer in the UAE and a copy of the UAE trade license: Employer letter plus UAE business license if self-employed.
• Flight itinerary and hotel bookings: Round-trip tickets and confirmed reservations.

How can I Get a China Visa from Dubai?

To get a China visa from Dubai, UAE residents follow a simple process at the China Visa Application Service Center in Dubai for a China visit visa, such as tourist or business types. Start with a valid passport (6+ months validity) and UAE Residence Visa (3+ months left), followed by a completed online application form from cova.mfa.gov.cn, plus one recent color photo with a white background. 

For business, add an official invitation letter from a Chinese partner and a trade license copy from them. Include NOC from the employer in the UAE and a copy of the UAE trade license if self-employed, ending with the flight itinerary and hotel bookings. Submit originals after online approval, pay fees on-site, and collect after 4 days. Prep in this order avoids delays. 

How Much is the China Visa Fee from Dubai?

China visa fees from Dubai for UAE residents vary at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center by type of entry (single/multiple), visa processing speed (regular/express), and nationality. 

Single-entry visa fees start at AED 250-500 regular, with Express Fees adding AED 100-200. 

Multiple-entry options range from AED 350-800. Total Service Center Cost (Estimated) includes consulate fee plus AED 50-100 service charge—cash/card accepted. Reduced rates apply until Dec 31, 2026. Confirm exacts on-site as third-country rates differ.

Who are Eligible for a China Visa from Dubai?

Foreign nationals residing in Dubai with a valid UAE residence visa qualify as Residents of the UAE for a China visa via online application at cova.mfa.gov.cn. Upload passport-sized photos first, then the original passport (valid for more than 6 months), the UAE Residence Visa, and the Emirates ID.

Specific documents based on visa type (tourist, business, or family visit) follow: tourist adds Itinerary and Flight itinerary and hotel bookings; business needs an official invitation letter from a Chinese partner; family requires proofs like birth certificates. Submit at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. 

Can UAE Residents Travel to China Visa Free?

UAE residents can travel to China visa-free only if they are UAE citizens or Emirati Passport Holders with an eligible nationality under the China visa-free policy. UAE residency status alone does not qualify expats; they must follow the Application process.

Check eligibility first by Travel Purpose (tourism/business up to 30 days). UAE/GCC citizens show passports at entry until Dec 2026. Expats need a full China visa via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center with an original passport (valid for more than 6 months) and supports.

How Many Types of China Visas are Available from Dubai?

Multiple types of China visas are available from Dubai for UAE residents, including Tourist Visa (L) for sightseeing, Business Visa (M) for trade, Family Visit Visa (Q1/Q2/S1/S2) for relatives, Work Visa (Z) for jobs, Student Visa (X1/X2) for studies, and Transit Visa (G) for layovers.​

All require an online application first with a valid passport (6+ months validity), UAE Residence Visa, passport-sized photos, Application Form, and Specific documents based on visa type (tourist, business, or family visit), like Itinerary, a NOC Letter from Sponsor, or an official invitation letter from a Chinese partner. Submit at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. 

What is a China Business Visa from Dubai?

A China Business Visa from Dubai, officially known as the M-visa, is a travel document for foreign nationals residing in the UAE, permitting entry for Purpose like business negotiations and visiting clients in China. Known as the  China business Visa (M Visa from) Dubai, it covers trade activities without paid work.

Validity spans single/double/multiple entries up to 12 months (30-90 days per stay). Apply via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center with a valid passport (6+ months validity) first, a UAE Residence Visa, a completed online application form, passport-sized photos, an official invitation letter from a Chinese partner, a NOC from the employer, and a flight itinerary and hotel bookings.

Who Can Apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa in the UAE?

Any foreign national holding a valid UAE residence visa with at least 6 months validity can apply for a Chinese tourist (L) visa in the UAE at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Dubai. UAE citizens enjoy visa-free entry instead.

Documents start with a passport and a residence visa, then a No Objection Certificate (NOC), proof of travel like flights and hotel bookings, and financial stability via bank statements. Submit the post online form for approval.

How can I apply for a China visa from Dubai?

To apply for a China visa from Dubai, you must complete an online application form (COVA) via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website at cova.mfa.gov.cn or visaforchina.cn/DXB3_EN. Upload scans of your valid passport (6+ months validity), UAE residence visa (3+ months left), application form, photos, and travel proof like flights/hotels.

Appointment is optional—walk-ins work post-approval. Print the Visa Application Certificate, then visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Bur Dubai on weekdays with originals (a valid passport first, then the UAE residence visa, photos, and travel proof). Submit biometrics, pay fees, and collect after 4 days.

When should I apply for my China visa from Dubai?

Apply for your China visa in Dubai one month before your intended entry date, or better, consider applying at least 4-6 weeks early to avoid issues like holiday rushes at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Processing Time: Typically 4 working days for standard service (express adds fees for 2-3 days).

Prepare online application form (COVA) first with a valid passport, UAE residence visa, photos, and travel proof. Submit originals post-approval. Early action ensures smooth trips.

Do Applicants Need to Provide Biometrics for a China Visa?

Yes, most applicants need to provide biometrics for a China visa at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Dubai. Submit all 10 fingerprints in person after online application form (COVA) approval, alongside a valid passport, UAE residence visa, photos, and travel proof.

Exemptions cover kids under 14, seniors over 70, or recent prints (within 5 years). Appointment optional; walk-ins fine weekdays. Process adds minutes before Pay Fees.

What is the China Visa from Dubai Cost?

China visa costs from Dubai generally range from AED 250-800 for UAE residents, depending on visa type (tourist/business) and processing speed. China visa costs from Dubai include consulate fees plus visa service fees for UAE residents (AED 50-100 extra).

Visa costs stay reduced at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center until Dec 2026. Single-entry tourist/business: AED 250-500 regular; add Express Fees AED 100-200. Multiple-entry higher. Pay cash/card on-site after docs like a valid passport and a UAE residence visa

How Much is a China Visit Visa from Dubai Price?

China visit visas from Dubai cost AED 250-500 for single-entry. Prices change by tourist or business type for UAE residents. Standard processing takes 5–7 days. Official Visa Fees start low. Faster service adds extra cost.

Pay after you give your valid passport and UAE residence visa. Go to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Fees stay low until the end of 2026.

Will I get a refund of the visa fee if my China Visa Application is Rejected?

No, you will not receive a refund of the China visa application fee if your application is rejected at the Visa Application Centre, Chinese Embassy, or Consulate in Dubai. The Non-Refundable Policy covers processing costs regardless of approval.

Service Fees at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center stay non-refundable too. Fees paid after submittinga valid passport, UAE residence visa, and docs like NOC from the employer are lost. Fix issues and reapply.

How long is the China Visa Processing Time in Dubai?

China visa processing in Dubai typically takes 4 working days for regular service. China visa processing in Dubai starts after you submit your applications at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center with your valid passport and UAE residence visa first.

Regular Service suits most travel plans. Express Service cuts to 2-3 days. Rush Service handles emergencies (extra fees). Track online post-submission of photos and travel proof. Apply early to avoid holiday delays.

What is the China Visa Processing Time & Validity from Dubai?

China visa processing in Dubai generally takes 4 working days for regular service at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Standard tourist/business visas use Regular Service for most cases.

Express Service speeds to 2-3 days. Rush Service covers urgent needs with extra fees. Submit valid passport, UAE residence visa, photos, and travel proof post-online form. Track status online.

What are the China Visa Terms & Conditions?

China visa terms require UAE residents to hold a valid passport (6+ months validity) and secure an approved visa before arrival via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Accurately complete forms online (COVA) first.

Submit proof of residence like a UAE residence visa, then travel itineraries or invitation letters, photos, and travel proof. Follow Non-Refundable Policy; biometrics mandatory unless exempt. Processing: 4 days regular.

What are the Common Mistakes with China Visa from Dubai, and How to Avoid Them?

Common mistakes with China visa applications from Dubai include incomplete or inconsistent forms, incorrect flight/hotel bookings, wrong photo sizes, and poor-quality documents. These issues hit UAE residents hard at the official China Visa Service Center website during submission.​

Avoid these by double-checking data against your passport and ensuring all supporting documents are consistent. Start with a valid passport, UAE residence visa, then photos, travel itineraries or invitation letters, and NOC from the employer. Use real bookings and clear scans for quick approval. 

Can I Extend My China Visa While in China?

Yes, you can apply to extend your China visa while in China at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry office, typically 7 days before expiry.

Submit your valid passport first, current visa, extension reason, proof of residence like hotel bookings, and financial stability docs such as bank statements. Approval adds up to 30 days for tourist/business visas.

Is it Possible to Extend My China Visa?

Yes, it is possible to apply to extend the duration of stay of your China visa through local Chinese authorities like the Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry office.

Submit a valid passport first, current visa, extension reason, proof of residence (hotel), and financial stability (bank statements). Apply 7 days before expiry for up to 30 days added.

Can I Apply Again if My China Visa Application is Rejected?

Yes, you can apply again if your China visa application is rejected; there is no mandatory waiting period, though addressing the reasons for the initial rejection is key before submitting a new application.

Include a valid passport, an improved invitation letter, stronger financial proof (bank statements), and ties to the home country first. Reapply at the same embassy promptly.