Things You'll Need:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application
- Visa application
- Passport-sized photo
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Step 1
Visit the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C. on weekdays during office hours. The Embassy is closed on most national holidays and Chinese holidays, so check that it's open first.
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Step 2
Take a number in the visa office and wait for your turn to submit your application. You don't have to make an appointment for a visa, you just have to show up.
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Step 3
Present your completed application, photo and passport at the window. You will be given a date to pick up your visa.
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Step 4
Return to the visa office at the Embassy on your specified date to pick up your travel visa. Pay your visa fee at this time.
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Step 5
Check your visa and other documentation for any errors before you leave the office. This is your chance to fix any problems before it's too late.
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Step 1
Contact a travel or visa agent to apply for your Chinese travel visa if you can't travel to Washington to do it yourself. The Chinese Embassy allows a third party to apply for you without requiring a power of attorney.
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Step 2
Submit the required documentation to your agent, including your passport, the visa application, a passport-sized photo and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Your agent will submit these documents to the embassy on your behalf.
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Step 3
Pay the Consulate fee and the third-party service fee. The Consulate fee is standard and can be referenced on the Chinese Embassy website (see Resources below). Third-party service fees vary, so shop around to find a good deal.
