Last updated 2026-06-15
Non-business visit visa to China for U.S. citizens
Travel purpose:
Other
Visa overview
Issued to foreigners invited to China for lectures, forums, research trips, scientific or cultural exchanges, study tours, religious events, and similar activities. The non-business visa is valid for up to 6 months, allowing single, double, or multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 30 days per entry. Foreign travelers can submit their entry information online before entering China using various official platforms, including the National Immigration Administration (NIA) website via PC or smartphone, the “NIA 12367” mobile app, or the WeChat (Alipay) mini program.
Visa validity period
from 1 month to 5 years
Consular fee
$23 – $68
Select the purpose of your visit
The selected purpose of the visit determines the visa's cost, processing times, and the list of required supporting documents. The purpose of the visit is often specified in the application form alongside the visa type or category and may also be indicated directly on the visa itself.
Exchange student visa
Eligible individuals
Academic worker, scientist
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
Cultural exchange visa
Eligible individuals
Cultural worker
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
Religious exchange visa
Eligible individuals
Clergy
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
NGO activities visa
Eligible individuals
Representative, member of non-profit organization
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
Volunteer visa
Eligible individuals
Volunteer, charity worker
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
Expert visa
Eligible individuals
Expert, professional
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68
Surveying and mapping activity visa
Eligible individuals
Geographer, mapper
Visa validity period:
from 1 month to 5 years
Duration of stay:
1 month
Number of entries:
single-entry
double-entry
multiple-entry
Consular fee:
$23 – $68