What is a J type Chinese Visa?

The J1 visa is for journalists who are based in China.

The J2 visa is for visiting journalists who are, for example, entering China to cover a story.

Most importantly, before you start your application or contact us, you must contact the Chinese Embassy press office first for approval.

How long will it take to get my Chinese Visa (updated 25/03/2025)

Your passport with visa will be ready for collection:

EXPRESS SERVICE: 3 working days after we receive approval from the Chinese Embassy AND we have submitted your passport; or
STANDARD SERVICE: 4 working days after we receive approval from the Chinese Embassy AND we have submitted your passport.

Passports will be ready in the afternoon. Please call us or email us for more details.

How do I get my Chinese Visa?

  1. Place Your Order: After placing your order, we’ll send you a user-friendly email to collect all the necessary information from you. We’ll complete the application form for you by filling out the Chinese Visa Centre’s form based on the details you provide.
  2. We'll Review Your Application: We’ll ensure that everything is complete based on the information you provide. If we think any additional details or clarifications are needed, we’ll contact you to ask the necessary questions before finalizing the form.
  3. Concierge Service at the Chinese Visa Centre (If Fingerprints Are Required): If fingerprints are required for your application, we will advise you and arrange an appointment at the Chinese Visa Centre. We’ll ensure that all your documents are in order and guide you through the process. Our Concierge Service includes meeting you at the Centre to assist with the fingerprinting process, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
  4. Mailing or Collecting Your Passport: After your application is processed, we’ll send your passport back to you. You can choose from the following options for returning your passport:
    (a) We’ll send your passport via Royal Mail Special Delivery (RMSD) (additional charges apply);
    (b) We can courier your passport back to you (additional charges apply)
    (c) You can provide us with a pre paid Royal Mail Special Delivery envelope and we'll send it back to you that way; or
    (d) You can pick it up from our offices.
  5. Please bear in mind that the type of visa and length granted for each stay is always at the discretion of the Chinese Embassy, which will grant you the visa they deem is most appropriate as determined by all the circumstances (especially the documentation in hand).

What documents do I need in order to get a J visa?

This "J" visa is for journalists temporarily in China covering a story, for example. It is only available in a single entry variant. To get your application going, you will need:
1. Passport plus a photocopy of the photo page in addition - passport must have two blank pages and 6 months remianing validity.
2. Digital photo
3. If you have been to China before, a photocopy of your last Chinese visa.
4. If you used to have a Chinese passport, please contact us for more information.

Fees