China Business Visa Requirements 2026: Complete Guide

Planning business activities in China in 2026? Understanding visa requirements is essential. This guide covers the different visa types, application processes, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Types of Business-Related Visas

M Visa (Business/Trade)

For short-term business activities:

• Attending trade fairs and exhibitions
• Business meetings and negotiations
• Signing contracts
• Market research visits

Duration: Usually 30-90 days per entry, single or multiple entry options.

Z Visa (Work)

Required if you will be employed in China:

• Must have a job offer from a Chinese employer
• Employer obtains work permit notification
• Convert to residence permit after arrival

F Visa (Non-commercial Exchange)

For non-commercial purposes like:

• Academic exchanges
• Scientific research
• Cultural activities

M Visa Application Requirements

Standard Documents

• Passport valid for 6+ months with blank pages
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport photo
• Invitation letter from Chinese company
• Proof of business relationship or purpose
• Flight and hotel bookings (some consulates)

Invitation Letter Requirements

The invitation letter should include:

• Your personal information
• Purpose and itinerary of visit
• Inviting company's details and business license
• Company stamp/seal

Work Permit Process (Z Visa)

1. Employer applies for work permit notification in China
2. You apply for Z visa at Chinese embassy/consulate
3. Enter China within validity period
4. Complete health check at designated hospital
5. Obtain work permit card
6. Apply for residence permit at local PSB

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Working on wrong visa: Serious legal consequences
• Overstaying: Fines, detention, and entry bans
• Incomplete documents: Delays and rejections
• Last-minute applications: Allow 2-4 weeks minimum

Visa-Free Transit

Some nationalities can transit through China without a visa:

• 24-hour transit: Most nationalities
• 72/144-hour visa-free transit: Select cities and nationalities
• Must have confirmed onward ticket to third country

After Arrival

• Register with police: Within 24 hours if staying outside hotels
• Keep documents handy: Passport and visa for ID checks
• Monitor visa validity: Don't overstay