China Visa Extension and Renewal Procedures
China Visa Extension and Renewal Procedures
Chinese visa extension, renewal and cancellation procedures, which allow changes to the status and duration of the Chinese visa, are carried out upon the request of visa holders who meet the required conditions.
Detailed information about Chinese visa procedures such as extension, visa renewal and visa cancellation for Chinese visas is provided below.
In what cases should a Chinese visa be renewed?
The Chinese visa can be renewed after entering China by applying to the Exit and Entry Department Office of the Ministry of Public Security at least at the provincial level, in cases where the purpose of visit and stay is changed, a new passport is obtained because the old passport has expired and there are no more blank pages, a partner is added after entry, or tourists coming in groups need to stay in the country separately.
If you do not renew your Chinese visa despite meeting the conditions, you will be required to leave China as your old visa will become invalid. However, you may be penalized for staying in the country illegally.
How to Renew a Chinese Visa?
You can renew your Chinese visa by following the steps below.
- Find the Department of Public Safety office or police station where you are temporarily living.
- Visit the office to explain your situation, get the application form and learn about the application processes and other requirements. You can also reach the offices through the contact numbers, learn about the need for an appointment and make an appointment.
- Prepare and submit all required documents and pay application fees.
- Assist the investigation of the Exit and Entry Department of the Ministry of Public Security through telephone interviews and other means, and attend interviews in person if requested.
- Receive your passport and new Chinese visa.
The competent authority will consider granting you a new Chinese visa within 7 days of your application. Applicants are usually required to attend the interview in person, but in some cases, the application may be made by a relative, inviting person or institution or representative.
These conditions include being under 16 or over 60, having mobility difficulties or other illnesses. For those who are not entering China for the first time and do not have a good residence record, all living expenses must be covered by the inviting person or institution. In some major cities, such as Beijing or Guangzhou, an online system can be used to fill out the application form and make an appointment.
Documents Required for China Visa Renewal Application
For Chinese visa renewal application, you must prepare the following required documents.
- Your valid passport and Chinese visa
- A visa/stay permit/residence permit application form, fully completed at the local police station or Ministry of Public Security office, or online
- 2" x 2" photo taken within the last 6 months
- Completed temporary residence registration form for visitors
- Other documents supporting your stay in China
People's Republic of China Visa Renewal Fee
Chinese visa renewal fees range from 160 to 672 Chinese yuan and are given in the table below.
| Visa Type | Visa Fee |
|---|---|
| Zero/Single entry visa | 160-168 Chinese yuan |
| Double entry visa | 252 Chinese yuan |
| Multiple entry visa for more than 6 months | 420 Chinese yuan |
| Multiple entry visa for a period of 1 to 5 years | 672 Chinese yuan |
| Single entry group visa (per person) | 130 Chinese yuan |
| Double entry group visa | 170 Chinese yuan |
| Group visa separation | 160 Chinese yuan |
How to Extend the Validity Period of a Chinese Visa?
The Chinese visa validity period can be extended by applying to a local public security authority before the visa expires; however, there is no guarantee that your request will be accepted.
If you remain in the country illegally despite your extension request not being approved, you will be penalized for violating Chinese law and committing a Chinese visa violation .
If you want to stay in China for longer than the allowed period, you must apply to the Exit and Entry Department Office of the Ministry of Public Security at least 7 days before your Chinese visa expires. The visa can be extended 1 or 2 times, and the extension period cannot exceed your original stay period on your old Chinese visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers given by our consultants to the questions we are frequently asked about the procedures that can be carried out regarding the People's Republic of China visa status changes are compiled below.
What are the Required Documents for China Visa Extension?
For Chinese visa extension procedures, you must submit the documents listed below.
- Your original valid passport and old Chinese visa
- Original and photocopy of temporary residence registration form
- A completed visa/stay permit/residence permit application form
- A newly taken 2 inch photo
- Relevant supporting documents (e.g. travel plan and itinerary arrangements for tourist visa, documents from travel agency for group tourists, registration certificate with certificate letter for business visa, invitation letter for family reunification visa, proof of family membership with identity document, education certificate for student visa)
Can I Cancel My China Visa Application?
It is not allowed to cancel your China visa application while it is still ongoing due to the complicated procedures involved. If you wish to withdraw your application, the visa fees and service charges you have paid will not be refunded.
I Lost My Passport in China, Can I Get a Visa Again?
If you lose your passport in China, it is damaged or stolen, you can apply to have your Chinese visa re-issued. Your application will be finalized within 7 working days.
Can I Change My Visa Type While I Am in China?
You cannot change your visa type while you are in China.
According to the Chinese visa policy, in order to change the type of visa you hold, you must exit China and then re-apply for a visa of your choice among the Chinese visa types .