China Visa Guide

Do You Need a Visa?

Most visitors to mainland China need a tourist (L) visa before traveling. The standard tourist visa allows a stay of 30 days per entry. Here are the current (2026) costs by nationality:

• United States: $140 for a 10-year multiple-entry visa (the best deal if you plan to return)
• United Kingdom: GBP 151 for a 2-year multiple-entry visa
• Canada: CAD 100 for a single-entry visa
• Australia: AUD 110 for a single-entry visa
• EU countries: EUR 80-125 depending on nationality and entry type
• Southeast Asian countries: Fees vary widely — check with your local Chinese embassy

Processing time is typically 4-7 business days for standard service, or 2-3 days for express (additional fee). Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to allow for any delays.

144-Hour Transit Without Visa (TWOV)

Travelers from 53 countries can enter China without a visa for up to 144 hours (6 days) if transiting through certain cities — and Guilin is one of them. This means if you fly into Guilin from one country and have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country, you can stay in the Guilin region for up to 6 days without any visa at all.

Eligible countries include the US, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU countries, Japan, South Korea, and others. The key rule: your arrival must be from Country A, and your departure must be to Country B (not Country A). Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan count as separate "countries" for TWOV purposes — so flying Hong Kong -> Guilin -> USA works perfectly.

How to Apply (Standard Tourist Visa)

1. Fill out the COVA form online at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website for your country. The form is detailed — have your passport, flight bookings, and hotel reservations ready.
2. Book an appointment at your nearest Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa application center. In major cities (New York, London, Sydney, etc.), appointments can fill up 1-2 weeks in advance during peak travel seasons.
3. Prepare your documents: passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay with at least two blank visa pages, recent passport photo (33mm x 48mm, white background), printed COVA form, flight itinerary showing entry and exit from China, hotel bookings for every night of your stay, and the visa fee (payment methods vary by location).
4. Attend your appointment. You'll submit your documents and may be asked brief questions about your travel plans.
5. Collect your passport 4-7 business days later (or 2-3 days for express service).