China Visa Guidelines
The Padnos Center for Global Experiences (PCGE) provides the general information below as a service to GVSU students. We strive to maintain accurate information regarding visa procedures, however, changes to policies and procedures may occur frequently without our knowledge. Students are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa for their program and must consult the consulate for the most up to date information on application procedures.
Please look over the visa information carefully and do not delay, as visa procedures are time sensitive.
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Do I need a visa? |
All students participating in study abroad programs in China must apply for a visa |
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Processing Time and Visa Appointment |
4 business days after you submit all required documents to the embassy or consulate. Students can either apply in person at the consulate in Chicago or online using the Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA). Visa applications cannot be submitted more than 90 days BEFORE you intend to travel. If you apply earlier, you will be required to enter China earlier than you intended. |
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Application Instructions |
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Estimated Cost |
Visa fee of $140 |
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Nearest Consulate or Embassy |
Consulate General 100 West Erie Street Chicago, IL 60654 USA Passport & Visa Office 1 East Erie Street, Suite 500 Chicago, IL 60611 USA |
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Contact Information |
Consulate Phone: 312-642-5981 |
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Additional Information |
Students can apply in person for the visa at the Chinese Consulate or online via the Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA) site that launched Oct 1, 2025. In the past, GVSU students also used visa agents. Agents charge separate fees for assisting in processing your application. There are several visa agent options, we have listed a few below that GVSU students or staff have used in the past:
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