China has launched an updated online visa application system, COVA, for migrants from the United States. Find out how to apply, what documents are required and what has changed in the Chinese visa rules

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China has introduced a modernized online visa application system for travelers from the United States. The new COVA (China Online Visa Application) platform is designed to make the process faster, more convenient and more transparent. Now all stages – from filling out the form to tracking the status of the application – are available in one place. Read everything American travelers need to know about the new visa application procedure to China in this article.

What’s new in the COVA (China’s Online Visa Application) system?

The Chinese Embassy in the United States recently released an updated COVA system, which was not just a redesign of the website, but a complete transformation of the digital visa application procedure.

The new COVA system is aimed at increasing accuracy, security and efficiency. Now applicants can:

- Fill out forms directly online;

- Upload required documents;

- Track the status of consideration in real time.

In addition, the centralized system eliminates the need to resubmit documents, which previously slowed down the paper-based process.

A notable innovation was the introduction of the consular review stage of the application. This stage allows embassy representatives to properly verify documents and determine visa eligibility before arranging a personal appointment or issuing a visa.

Package of documents for applying for a visa to China through the COVA system

Applicants are now required to provide a more complete package of documents, including:

- Passport valid for at least 6 months, with two blank pages;

- A recent passport-sized photo that meets the requirements of the Chinese embassy;

- Confirmation of the purpose of the trip (invitation, hotel or ticket reservation);

- Financial evidence (bank statements or employment certificate);

- A health declaration - depending on the type of visa and length of stay.

How to Apply via COVA: Step-by-Step Instructions

To apply for a visa, follow these instructions:

Step 1 – Go to the website: consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA.

Step 2 – Create an account: Register using your email.

Step 3 – Fill out the form: Select the type of visa (tourist, work, student, etc.) and enter all the details.

Step 4 – Upload documents: Attach passport scans, photos, and confirmation of the purpose of the trip.

Step 5 – Print the application form: Once completed, save and print the COVA form and confirmation page.

Step 6 – Make an appointment: Go to the CVASC (Chinese Visa Application Service Center) portal to book an appointment date.

Step 7 – Attend the appointment in person: Bring your printed documents, passport, and originals with you. Your photos and fingerprints will be taken on site.

Step 8 – Wait for the result: after submission, a consular check takes place, which may take a little longer than before.

Important! Despite the convenience of the new system, the embassy warns: the processing time for applications may increase by approximately one week. This is due to a more detailed check of data and documents.

What types of visas can be applied for through the COVA system?

The COVA platform covers all main categories of Chinese visas:

- L (tourist) – for visiting attractions or friends;

- M (business) – for business trips;

- X (student) – for study;

- Z (work) – for official employment;

- Q and S – for private and family visits.

Before submitting, we recommend that you check the current embassy requirements for each category.

Read here about the peculiarities of the labor market in the PRC and what requirements are imposed for obtaining a work visa.

Why is the COVA update important for US travelers?

Previously, the Chinese visa application process was considered complicated and confusing, especially for first-time applicants. With the new platform, China is taking a major step towards full digitalization – following the example of the ESTA (US) or Japan’s e-visa systems.

Yes, waiting times may increase, but the system reduces the number of errors and refusals due to incorrectly completed applications.

Tips before applying for a visa to China

1. Make sure that the type of your visa matches the purpose of your trip.

2. Check the quality of all scans – unclear copies can cause rejection.

3. Carefully check the dates, names and passport numbers.

4. Keep copies of all uploaded documents.

Tip from Visit World

Be sure to take out travel medical insurance before traveling to China to avoid unexpected expenses abroad.

The updated COVA system has become an important step towards simplifying visa procedures between China and the USA. Now submitting an application has become easier, and monitoring its consideration is more convenient and transparent. Although the waiting time may increase slightly, the digitalization of the process will help avoid errors, speed up communication with the consulate, and make a trip to China more comfortable.

Let us remind you! Every year, more and more expats dream of moving to China for permanent residence, because the country has favorable conditions for living, working, and relaxing. We have already talked about the features of life in the country, the documents required for obtaining a visa, and the conditions for obtaining Chinese citizenship in 2025.

Photo - generated by Gemini