Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the China Online Visa Application(COVA) Form (2026 Updated)

Last Updated: October 22 2026 | By Visit China Visa Center

Quick Summary: China Online Visa Application (COVA)

The new China Online Visa Application (COVA) system officially launched by the Chinese Embassy in the United States on September 30, 2025, is used by applicants in the United States to complete the Chinese visa application form, upload supporting documents, and track the progress of their application online. Applicants must use the Chinese Embassy or consulate responsible for their place of residence.

How to apply: First, register or sign in to the official COVA system. Select the correct consular jurisdiction, complete all required sections, upload the requested documents, and carefully review your information before submitting the application for preliminary review.

When do you submit your passport? After the online review, follow the instructions shown in your application status. When the status changes to “Passport to be Submitted,” submit your passport, screenshot of application approved page, and any additional original documents required by the responsible visa office.

Please note: You must submit your passport and supporting documents to the Chinese consulate within 30 days. Otherwise, your application will automatically expire, and you will need to complete the application form again.

Important: The new online application system limits repeated applications. If you cancel your online application twice in a row within a short period, you may have to wait 30 days before applying again. To avoid unnecessary delays, carefully review all information and uploaded documents before submitting your application.

Here is a quick overview of how to complete the COVA form:

1. Prepare your information. Have your passport, travel details, employment information, and supporting documents ready.
2. Access the official COVA system. Register account and Select the appropriate consulate office according to your place of residence and follow the system instructions.
3. Complete each section. Enter your personal information, passport details, employment history, travel information, itinerary, and other requested information.
4. Upload the required documents. Follow the system’s instructions for document and photo uploads.
5. Review your answers carefully. Check names, passport numbers, birth dates, all uploaded documents, and other details for accuracy before submitting.
6. Submit the form and monitor its status. Follow the online system’s instructions if corrections or additional information are requested.

Important: Completing the COVA form is only one part of the Chinese visa application process. Additional document review, passport submission, and other steps may be required depending on the applicant’s circumstances and the instructions of the responsible Chinese embassy or consulate.

This guide is primarily for applicants who want to complete the China visa application themselves. Prefer a hassle-free option? If you prefer not to handle the forms, document preparation, and other paperwork on your own, explore our All-Inclusive China Visa Service to learn how we can help simplify the process.

This section by Section guide provides the latest instructions, specifically for those applying for a Chinese visa in the United States. Let’s get started:

1. Prepare required documents for new Chinese Visa Application System

Consulates no longer accept handwritten applications . You must now complete the new (COVA) China online Visa Application and submit it, waiting for preliminary review, get approve confirmation notification, then submit the passport in person or by agent.

Important: The new online application system limits repeated applications. If you cancel your online application twice in a row within a short period, you may have to wait 30 days before applying again. Therefore, please think over carefully before submitting to avoid delays caused by mistakes and the need to re-do the new application . If you use all inclusive service, we will help for application and reduce risk of delay .

Passport : you will need 1, photo of information page; 2, two blank page with “visa” word on it.

Personal Photo ：Please take a personal photo using your phone. For specific requirements and how to create the white background, please refer to our Chinese visa photo guide

Invitation letter required for (M) business visa, (F)Academy and exchange visa, (Q2/Q1/S2/S1) Family visit Visa. No invitation letter required for (L) tourist visa.

Photo copy of Inviter’s ID for a family visit visa (Q2/Q1/S2/S1)

Work permit for (Z) Chinese work visa

JW 202 and Admission letter for X1 Chinese Student visa-long term;

DQ letter and Admission letter for X2 Chinese Student visa- short term

YES invitation letter for Chinese YES program visa

High end talent Confirmation letter for (R) High end talent visa

Diploma of renowned universities for (K ) Chinese STEM talent visa

Visa Notification Letter and Invitation letter and Employment letter for (J1/J2）Chinese Journalist Visa

PhotoCopy of Employee ID and Employer letter for (C) Chinese Crew Visa

Please use this link: https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/ to fill out the new COVA Chinese visa application online.

2. Important Filling Notes

• Accuracy: All information must be true, accurate, and complete. Any false information may lead to visa denial or future entry issues.
• Consistency: The information on your application form must be consistent with all supporting documents you provide (e.g., passport, invitation letter, inviter’s ID information, etc.).
• Language: The form can be filled out in English, Chinese, or a mix of both.
• Blank Fields: If a question doesn’t apply to you, please fill in “N/A” (Not Applicable) and input a reason.
• Chinese visa application statement(Download): The application form must be personally signed by the applicant. Minors can have their parents or legal guardians sign on their behalf. Please refer to our Chinese Visa Application Form Signature Template.
• Photo: If you successfully upload your personal photo when filling out the application form, you do not need a physical photo. However, if the upload is unsuccessful, you will need to provide one physical photo. For details on the photo requirements, please refer to the our Chinese Visa Photo Guide.

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3. Section-by-section Guide for China Online Visa Application(COVA) form-Detailed Explanation of Important Sections

I. Signing up and logging into your account

Visit: http://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/ (click to redirect). Click the [Sign In] button at the top-right corner of the page

If you already registered with China Consular before, you may logging in with your email account and password. If this is your first time using the system, please Click the “Register a new account” then use your email address to sign up.

Now that you have logged into the system, you can choose to view the application guide, start a new application, or check your application status. At this point, you will begin a new application—let’s select ‘Start My Application.

II, Start Your Chinese Visa Online Application

1，Select your Consular Jurisdiction

Be sure to select the consular Jurisdiction that corresponds to your place of residence. If you select wrong consulate, you have to restart a new application, For the latest consular Jurisdiction Adjustment, please refer to the our updated consular Jurisdiction guide.

Section One: Personal Information

On the Personal Information page you’ll first need to upload a personal photo and the passport information page.

• Photo: When uploading your photo, the system allows you to edit it using drag-and-drop and cropping tools and will automatically check if it meets the requirements. If your photo fails the check after multiple attempts, you can continue filling out the other sections of the application. However, remember to bring a standard ID photo when you submit your passport to the Consulate-office.
• Passport information page: New system use Optical Character Recognition Technology to automatically recognize and populate your Name, Birth Date, Passport number, Gender, Expiration date and other information, You only need upload passport’s bio-page, This greatly reducing the error rate compare with manual entry. However, due to factors like passport photo resolution, lighting, and glare, the system can still make mistakes—so be sure to carefully re-check the auto-filled information.

Continue for section one:

If you have ever held a nationality other than the United States, such as Chinese, you will need to provide the date of your naturalization, including the year and month

Continue for section one:

For rest of personal information of Part one:

• Former Names: If you have any officially used other name or former names, please fill it in here.
• Name in Native Language: For those born in China (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan): fill in your Chinese name e.g., 张三. If you were not born in China, you can leave this section blank.
• Marital Status: For minors, please Choose Single. For same-sex marriages, please choose ‘Single’.
• Gender: Currently, Chinese visa applications do not support “X” or other non-binary genders. Applicants with such designations may need to obtain a new passport before applying.
• Place of Birth: You need to fill in the country, state, and city of birth. Note: This is not your current place of residence.
• National ID Number: You can select “N/A” or enter your driver’s license number or passport number. Please do not fill in your SSN here.
• Have you “ever held other nationalities or resident statuses”? For those born in China (including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan): select “Yes”, then select China. Continue to fill in the required information.
• Passport Type: Most applicants should select Ordinary.
• Place of Issue: It is recommended to fill in your state name plus USA, for example: Texas USA.
• Passport Expiration Date: Please ensure this matches the expiration date on your passport.

Section Two: Visa Type Application

Please select your visa type based on the purpose of your visit to China

• For L (Tourist) visa and M (Business) visa, You may fill in 90 days, 120 months, multiple entries.
• For Q2/S2 (Family Visit) visa, You may fill in 180 days, 120 months, multiple entries.
• For F (Exchange/Visit) visa, You may fill in 90 days, 6 months, 2 entries.
• For Z (Work) visa and X1 (Study) visa, You may fill in 365 days, 3 months, single entry.
• For other visa types, You may fill in according to your actual needs.

Please note that whether to issue a visa, the type of visa, number of entries, validity and duration of each stay will be determined by consular officials. It may differ from those you filled in on the application.

Section Three: Work Experience

• Fill in at least 5 years of work experience.
• If you graduated less than 5 years ago, fill in your actual year of work experience.
• If you are retired, fill in the 5 years of work experience before retirement.
• Position and Responsibilities are also mandatory fields.

Section Four: Education Background

• Fill in your highest degree only. The name of the school and your major are required fields.

Section Five: Family Information

• Current Address: Your detailed address in the U.S., including street, city, state, and zip code.
• Contact Phone Number and Email: Mandatory required.
• Spouse, Parents, Children: Please fill in truthfully. If deceased, please check “N/A” and indicate “deceased.”

Section Six: Travel Information to China

• Currently, Chinese consulates no longer require flight and hotel information.
• Address of Stay: This can be a hotel address or a residential address. If it’s a Q2 family visit visa, it usually matches the inviter’s address.
• Inviter Information:
  • For L (Tourist) visa, this section can be left blank.
  • For Q1/Q2/S1/S2 (Family Visit) visas, please fill in the information of your Chinese inviter and phone number.
  • For M (Business) visa and F (Exchange/Visit) visa, please fill in the information of the Chinese inviting company or institution.
  • For Z (Work) visa, please fill in the information of your Chinese employer company.
  • For X (Study) visa, please fill in the information of the Chinese school or educational institution.
• Travel Expenses: If the applicant is a minor, please select “Other” and fill in the information of one of the parents. If your apply business visa, You may select Organization, and fill your US employer information.
• Companion Persons: For applications in the U.S., please be sure to select “No.”

Section Seven: Past Travel Information

• Countries visited in the last 12 months: This does not include the U.S. and China. Please fill in truthfully.
• Have you been to China before? If you are a Chinese citizen who naturalized in the U.S. and are applying for the first time, please select “Yes” here.

Section Eight: Other Information

In this section, answer each question truthfully based on your personal circumstances. Select “Yes” or “No” as appropriate for each question.

If you answer “Yes” to any question, provide the requested details or a clear explanation in the space provided. For questions about military service, Criminal history or other organizations, complete the additional information fields when applicable.

Review all your answers carefully before submitting the application. If you are unsure how to answer a question, seek clarification before proceeding.

Section Nine: Declaration

For Minors Under 16 years old, Please select : the person who fills in the application on behalf of the applicant, then fill in relative information at blank area.

III: Upload support Docuemnts

• Please take photos and upload the required documents as per system instructions, To avoid delay processing, make sure that all uploaded materials are complete, clearly visible, and evenly lit. Documents marked with red dashed borders are mandatory and must be uploaded.
  

The passport section for upload passport information page and two blank page;

Previously Chinese visa section: only if you had Chinese visa before, please upload previously visa page and previously passport information page.

If you have lost the passport containing your previous Chinese visa, you may be required to upload a lost Chinese visa statement.

Proof of residence section : please upload Driver’s license or Utility bill or Bank statement;

People of Chinese descent born in US section: only for applicant who born in US, had Chinese descent, this is first time apply Chinese visa.(documents required such as a birth certificate, the biographical page of the parents’ passports, and the parents’ permanent resident card or certificate of naturalization etc. The exact documents required will vary depending on your specific situation. )

Foreign Chinese apply for the first time: This only applies to applicants who were originally of Chinese nationality and are applying for a Chinese visa for the first time after obtaining U.S. citizenship. (Documents required such as a latest Chinese passport biographical page, Naturalization certification. )

For Non-U.S. Citizens applying for a Chinese visa in the United States, you may need to provide proof of your lawful immigration status, such as: U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Valid U.S. visa or Form I-20, if applicable or Form I-94, if applicable or Other relevant immigration documents.

For additional Document section: If the submitted application does not meet the requirements or need to upload additional materials, consular staff will reject it, and the application status will change to [Rejected and to be modified]. you will need modify and upload supplement your application materials this section to avoid delays in the review process.

For Invitation section: Different types of visas require different invitation letter. For invitation letters from non-individual entities, they must include the inviter’s official seal, signature, and mobile phone number. The invitation letter templates can be downloaded at the bottom of this page.

Confirm the Information

After uploading materials, click [Next] to proceed to confirm your information. Here, you may review the submitted information and the uploaded materials. To make changes, click the [Modify] button at the upper-right corner of the page. Please carefully review all the information, as submitted form cannot be modified until consular officials’ review. Once confirmed, click [Submit the application form].

Important Reminder: After clicking “Submit,” COVA will ask you to confirm a second time that you will pay upon passport pickup at the consulate. You must click confirm here to successfully queue your application for the consulate’s preliminary review. Many applicants currently fail to click this second confirmation, leaving their application unsubmitted.

IV, Online Review and Submit your Passport

After China online visa applicaiton submission, your application will enter the online pre review status, where the consular officers will conduct online review. You may check the progress by clicking the [Track the status of my application] on the homepage.

If the submitted application does not meet the requirements or need to upload additional materials, consular officer will reject it, and the application status will change to [Rejected and to be modified]. Please modify and supplement your application materials according to the Embassy or Consulate’s requirement to avoid delays in the review process due to failure to provide supplementary materials in a timely manner.

After the application pre review is approved, the status will display as “Passport to be submitted.” The applicant or agent should visit the Visa office of the Corresponding consular office in person to submit :1, passport, 2, a printed copy of the application information page with your name, the barcode and show the consulate message, Some applicants may ask to provide certain original documents requiring submitted on-site.

    Please note: Online review approval does not guarantee visa issuance. Consular officers may require an in-person interview with the applicant or request additional documentation. Besides, processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances, and some visa applications may require longer processing time.

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We hope this guide helps you successfully complete your Chinese visa application, you can choose to submit it yourself to the consulate office in person. If everything goes smoothly, you’ll be able to pick up your visa in person after 3- 4 business days.

Need Help With Your China Visa Application?

Completing the COVA online application form is an important step, but you may also need help preparing documents, checking your application, or submitting your passport.

Visit China Visa Center offers two service options for applicants in the United States.

Option 1: All-Inclusive China Visa Service

Our All-Inclusive Service is designed for applicants who prefer more comprehensive assistance throughout the application process.

• Assistance with completing the visa application form
• Document preparation guidance and review
• Free consultation
• Free visa photo assistance and document printing
• Passport submission and visa pick up and return arrangements, as included in the selected service
• Government visa fee included in the advertised all-inclusive price

Service price: See the current price and service terms on our product page.

Our Full Refund Guarantee applies subject to the terms and conditions of the All-Inclusive Service. Visa approval is determined solely by the Chinese embassy or consulate.

Explore Our All-Inclusive China Visa Service →

Option 2: China Visa Submit-Only Service

Already completed your COVA application and prepared your supporting documents? Our Submit-Only Service may be a suitable option if you mainly need assistance with passport submission and collection.

• For applicants who have completed their online application
• Assistance with passport submission and collection, according to the selected service
• Lower service costs for applicants who do not need comprehensive application assistance

This service does not include the same level of COVA application preparation assistance as the All-Inclusive Service. Applicants are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their own applications and supporting documents.

Explore Our China Visa Submit-Only Service →

Chinese Online Visa Application COVA FAQs

1. Can Visit China Visa Center help me fill out the China visa application form?

Absolutely! If you choose our All-Inclusive China Visa Service, we’ll send you a China Visa Short Form after you place your order. Simply complete this short form, and our team will help prepare your visa application and send you the completed application for your review and signature.

Explore our China Visa Services to find the option that best suits your needs.

2. Do I need to submit a paper passport photo?

Generally, no. If you successfully upload a digital photo that meets the applicable requirements to the China Online Visa Application (COVA) system, a separate printed photo may not be necessary. Follow the instructions from the responsible Chinese Embassy or consulate if additional photo requirements apply.

3. Do I need an appointment to apply for a China visa in the United States?

Generally, no appointment is required for passport submission under the current application procedures. However, applicants must first complete the online application and follow the instructions provided by the responsible Chinese Embassy or consulate. Check the latest official requirements before visiting.

4. How long does it take to get a China visa in the USA?

Processing times vary by consular jurisdiction, application status, and individual circumstances. After your Chinese online visa application get approved and submitted your passport to Consulate office, Standard processing may take approximately 4 business days after the applicable submission stage, while expedited processing may be available for eligible applications at an additional cost. Online preliminary review, additional document requests, and other factors may extend the overall processing time.

Contact us to confirm the current processing options for your application.

5. How much does a China visa cost for U.S. citizens?

The Chinese government visa fee for U.S. citizens has commonly been $140 for a regular visa application, but fees and payment requirements can change. The total cost may also include service fees, return shipping, or expedited processing. Check the current government fee schedule and the details of your selected service before ordering.

6. Can U.S. citizens get a 10-year China visa?

Eligible U.S. citizens may qualify for a multiple-entry Chinese visa valid for up to 10 years for certain visa categories, including tourist (L), business (M), and family-visit (Q2) visas. Eligibility and permitted stay depend on the visa category and individual application. A 10-year visa is not guaranteed, and the final visa validity, number of entries, and permitted stay are determined by the Chinese consular authorities.

7. Do I need to use a visa agency to apply for a China visa?

No. You can complete the application yourself through the official China Online Visa Application (COVA) system and follow the relevant consulate’s instructions. However, if you have limited time or prefer not to handle the paperwork, Visit China Visa Center can help with application preparation, document guidance, passport submission, and return shipping, depending on the service you select.

8. What is the China Online Visa Application (COVA) system?

COVA is the online system used to complete a Chinese visa application form and upload supporting documents for preliminary review. Applicants must follow the procedures of the Chinese Embassy or consulate responsible for their place of residence.

9. Can I apply for a China visa entirely online?

Not Really. Applicants generally complete the form and upload supporting documents online first. After preliminary review, the responsible visa office may require the physical passport and other original documents to be submitted according to its instructions.

10. How do I choose the correct Chinese consulate?

Choose the Chinese Embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence in the United States. Check the current consular jurisdiction list before starting your application. Selecting the wrong jurisdiction may delay the process or require you to restart the application.

11. What should I do if my COVA application needs corrections?

Follow the status message and instructions in the official system. Correct the information or upload additional documents as requested, and carefully review the updated application before resubmitting it. The time needed for another review may affect your overall processing time.

12. When should I submit my passport?

Wait until the application status and instructions indicate that your passport should be submitted. Follow the responsible visa office’s requirements for the passport, application information page, barcode, and any additional original documents.

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Important Tips When Completing the COVA Form

1. Make Sure Your Information Matches Your Passport

Check your full name, passport number, date of birth, passport issue date, and expiration date exactly as shown on your passport.

2. Choose the Correct Visa Type

Select the visa category that matches your actual purpose of travel to China. For example, tourism, business, family visits, and employment may require different visa categories and supporting documents.

3. Provide Accurate Travel and Employment Information

Complete your travel itinerary, intended dates of travel, accommodation details, employment history, and other requested fields truthfully. If a question does not apply to you, follow the instructions provided by the online system rather than guessing.

4. Upload Clear and Compliant Documents

Make sure your passport image, photograph, and supporting documents are clear, complete, and readable. Follow the current photo specifications and upload requirements displayed by the official application system.

5. Review Every Section Before Submission

Check for spelling errors, incorrect dates, inconsistent addresses, missing information, and discrepancies between the application form and supporting documents. Inaccurate or inconsistent information may result in requests for corrections or additional review.

6. Save Your Application Information

After your submit your online application, you will able to download your full COVA form. Keep a copy of your application details and any confirmation or notification provided by the system. Monitor your application status and respond promptly if additional information or corrections are requested.

7. Understand What Happens After Submission

Submitting the COVA form does not necessarily mean that your visa application is complete or approved. Follow the instructions provided by the responsible Chinese embassy or consulate regarding online review, passport submission, and subsequent processing.

Please note: Application procedures and requirements may change. Always follow the latest instructions displayed in the official COVA system and published by the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your application.

Have questions?

Call: 202-202-2888
Email: service@visitchinavisa.com

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Important Disclaimer

Visit China Visa Center is a private visa application assistance and courier service. We are not a government agency, law firm, or representative of the Chinese government.

Processing times, visa requirements, fees, and eligibility rules are subject to change and remain under the control of the Chinese embassy or consulate.

All visa decisions are made solely by the appropriate Chinese embassy or consulate.

Our service fees are separate from official government visa fees.

For the latest official requirements, applicants should always refer to the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for their jurisdiction.