China Visa Application Guide
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a China visa from the United States, including document requirements, COVA form instructions, photo specifications, and processing timelines.
Basic Requirements
- Valid US passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- COVA online application form (completed and printed)
- Passport-style photo: white background, 33mm x 48mm
- Supporting documents based on visa type
COVA Online Form
The Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA) system at cova.mfa.gov.cn is required for all visa applications. Select your target consulate, complete all sections, upload your photo, and print the confirmation page.
Frequently Asked Questions
基本材料包括：有效护照原件（至少6个月有效期和2页空白页）、护照照片页复印件、近期白底证件照(33mm×48mm)、签证申请表（COVA在线填写后打印）、以及根据签证类型所需的补充材料（如邀请函、工作许可等）。
COVA（Chinese Online Visa Application）是中国签证在线申请系统。访问cova.mfa.gov.cn，选择申请签证的使领馆，填写个人信息、旅行信息和签证信息，上传照片后提交并打印确认页。eChinaVisa可提供一对一填表指导。
中国签证照片要求：白色背景、正面免冠、尺寸33mm×48mm（或数码版354×472像素）、近6个月内拍摄、不戴眼镜、不遮挡面部、面部占照片面积约70%。