China Visa 2026 Update: Requirements, How to Apply, and Fees

China has become an increasingly popular holiday destination among Indonesian travelers in recent years. This has led many travelers to wonder about China’s visa requirements. As you may know, Indonesian citizens need a visa before planning a trip to China.

If you're planning to visit China soon, check out this article for information on China visa requirements and the documents you need to prepare!

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Do Indonesian Citizens Still Need a Visa to Visit China?

For regular tourist trips to China, Indonesian citizens still need to apply for a visa based on the purpose of their visit. However, there is a 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy for Indonesian citizens who meet certain requirements. Therefore, you should check whether your trip qualifies before applying for a visa.

The visa-free transit policy applies to travelers transiting to a third country or region and is not a substitute for a visa for all types of visits to China. Eligible travelers can transit through designated areas for up to 10 days and engage in permitted activities such as tourism, business, or visiting family.

If your trip does not fall under this scheme, you will need to apply for a visa based on the purpose of your visit. For example, the relevant category for tourism is Visa L.

Types of China Visas for Indonesian Citizens

China offers various visa types for Indonesian citizens, depending on the purpose of their trip. These include:

• Visa L: Tourism, with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit
• Visa M: Business travel
• Visa F: Cultural exchange or other non-commercial activities
• Visa X1: Long-term study for more than 180 days
• Visa X2: Short-term study for up to 180 days
• Visa X: Employment for the duration specified in the employment contract
• Visa Q1/Q2: Family visit
• Visa G: Transit
• Visa S1: Long-term stay for family members of foreigners working or studying in China
• Visa S2: Short-term visits to foreign family members who work or study in China
• Visa Z: Employment in China or participation in commercial performances
• Visa C: International crew members and accompanying family members
• Visa R: Highly skilled or highly talented professionals needed in China
• Visa J1: Foreign journalists or media staff stationed in China
• Visa J2: Foreign journalists on temporary assignments
• Visa D: Permanent residence in China

China Visa Requirements for Indonesian Citizens in 2026

Before submitting your application, here are the China visa requirements you need to prepare:

• The original passport, valid for at least six months from the date of departure, with at least two blank pages remaining.
• The China Online Visa Application (COVA) COVA application form.
• Two recent passport photos measuring 33 mm × 48 mm, with a white background and the full face clearly visible, taken within the past six months.
• A photocopy of the passport, including the personal information page and the most recent visa/stamp page.
• A confirmed round-trip flight ticket or a complete travel itinerary.
• Proof of accommodation, including confirmed hotel bookings covering the entire duration of your stay.
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements from the past three months showing sufficient funds.
• A photocopy of a valid Indonesian ID card (KTP).
• An official invitation letter (TE) from a business partner in China and the company's registration documents for an M visa or business visit.
• An admission letter from a university, JW201/JW202 form, health certificate, and proof of financial means for an X1/X2 or student visa.

How to Apply for a China Visa

After preparing the China visa requirements, follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Complete the COVA application form online through visaforchina.cn and select Indonesia as your country of origin. Fill outComplete the visa application form carefully completely and carefully.
2. Then, print it single-sided and sign it. Gather all the documents required for a China visa as listed above.
3. Make sure your photos meet the required specifications. Next, visit the nearest CVASC in your city, as the application process cannot be completed entirely online.
4. You will still need to visit a CVASC in person to submit the original documents.
5. Submit your documents and make the payment. Don't forget to keep the receipt, as you will need it to track your application status and collect your visa.
6. Track your visa application status online through visaforchina.cn using the application number on your receipt.
7. Finally, collect your passport and visa according to the scheduled date, or choose postal delivery if available.

When Is the Right Time to Apply for a China Visa?

Adjust your visa application timingThe timing of your visa application should be adjusted according based onto your travel schedule and the Visa Centre’s processing time at the Visa Center. You should also allow enough time to prepare your documents, make any corrections if requested, and complete the passport submission and collection process.

Avoid planning your trip too close to your departure date. The Chinese Visa Center also recommends that applicants pay attention to their passport validity and application timing to ensure that their travel documents remain valid for their needs.

Before applying, double-check your passport validity, supporting documents, flight and accommodation details, visa fees, and the location of the appropriate Visa Center. These preparations can help you organize the application process more efficiently. If policies change, use the latest there are any policy changes, the latest information from the Chinese Embassy or Visa Center should be used as your primary reference.

ALSO READ: Updates to the 2026 Schengen Visa Rules You Should Know

Complete Your China Holiday Preparations with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia

Understanding the China visa requirements is an important first step in preparing for an international trip. From determining choosing the rightappropriate visa category and preparing documents to completing the online application form online and understanding the application fees, each step should match be tailored to the purpose and circumstances of your trip.

Once your visa arrangements are in order, consider protecting your trip with Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia. This product offers travel benefits in accordance with the applicable policy terms, making it a valuable part of your preparations for an international trip to China.

Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia offers a range of benefits to support your travel needs, allowing you to choose coverage that suits your travel plans. Get your Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia online today!