Your Guide to the China Visa for UAE Residents

Planning to travel to China for tourism, business, or study? The first step is securing the right type of China visa for UAE residents. The good news? China has many visa types based on your reason for visiting. These range from short tourist trips to long business or study stays.

UAE citizens and residents of some countries can benefit from China visa waivers, simplifying the entry process even further. So, what are the visa requirements for UAE residents? And who qualifies for a visa exemption? Let’s break down the essentials.

• China Expands Visa Waiver Programme for GCC Nationals
• Do UAE Residents Need a Visa for China?
• China Visa Types
• Required Documents
• How to Apply for a China Visa from the UAE
• Chinese Visa Application Service Centre Details
• FAQs

China Expands Visa Waiver Programme for GCC Nationals

In 2018, China and the UAE established a visa-free policy to facilitate tourism, business and family visits. Under the visa waiver programme, China allows citizens of GCC countries, including the UAE, to travel without advance visa applications.

On June 9, 2025, the China visa waiver for GCC countries was expanded to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain citizens. This programme is valid until June 8, 2026 and permits business, leisure and cultural travellers to enjoy a 30-day visa-free stay in China.

Do UAE Residents Need a Visa for China?

UAE residents typically need a visa to enter China, provided they do not fall under the visa-waiver category. On the contrary, UAE citizens, GCC nationals and selected nationalities can benefit from a 30-day visa-free entry to China. Before we move on to the process, let’s take a look at the categories of China Visa for UAE residents and citizens:

1. China Visa-Free Entry for UAE Residents and GCC Nationals

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals, including the UAE, do not require a visa to travel to China for up to 30 days. In addition to GCC countries, selected nationalities in the UAE can also avail of a 30-day visa-free entry to China. Such nationals can show their valid ID or passport to enter China.

Other than GCC countries, the following list of countries is eligible for China visa-free entry:

3. China Visa for UAE Residents

Lastly, UAE residents not included in the waiver programme must obtain a visa based on their travel purposes. Moreover, UAE citizens travelling to China for more than 30 days need a visa to enter the country.

China Visa Types

Choosing the right visa type is the key to a successful application and avoiding rejection. From travel to work and study, the China visa for UAE residents has the following categories:

1. Tourism Visa (L Visa)

If you’re planning sightseeing in China as a UAE resident, the first step is to obtain a Chinese tourist visa. This visa is valid for three to twelve months and permits holders to stay in the country for up to 60 days. Visa options include single and multiple entries within three to twelve months.

2. Exchange, Visits, Study Tours or Similar Activities Visa (F Visa)

This visa is for UAE residents travelling to China on cultural and academic exchanges or for volunteering. It is valid for six months to one year from the date of issuance.

3. Commercial Trade Visa (M Visa)

M Visa is for business travellers coming to China for meetings, trade events and commercial activities. This visa is valid for different durations, such as three, six and twelve months. During the validity period, the visa allows single, double or multiple entries, with stays not exceeding 30 days.

4. Family Reunion Visa (Q Visa)

UAE residents visiting their family in China can apply for a Family Reunion Visa, provided their family members are Chinese citizens. The short-term Q Visa is valid for stays up to 180 days. On the other hand, the long-term Q Visa requires residence permit conversion within 30 days.

5. Work Visa (Z Visa)

Those who have landed a job in China must obtain a Work Visa to enter the country. After arrival in China, visa holders need to apply for a visa conversion to a residence permit within 30 days.

6. Study Visa (X Visa)

UAE residents who have secured admissions to Chinese universities can obtain a Study Visa for short and long-term durations. A short-term visa is valid for around 180 days and a long-term visa requires conversion to a residence permit within 30 days.

8. Other Visa Types

Here are some other Chinese visa types for UAE residents:

• Family Members of Foreigners and Personal Matters Visa (S Visa)
• Journalist Visa (J Visa)
• Transit Visa (G Visa)
• Crew Member Visa (C Visa)
• Permanent Residence Visa (D Visa)
• Foreigner of High Talent or Specialist Visa (R Visa)

Required Documents

It’s crucial to submit the correct documents for a hassle-free visa application. While the exact documents vary by visa type, some general documents are required in every case. Here is a quick overview of the China visa requirements for UAE residents:

• Completed visa application form.
• Original passport and a copy of the bio page. Ensure that the passport is valid for at least six months.
• Two recent photographs with a white background.
• Copy of Emirates ID.
• Copy of UAE residence visa issued within the last six months (for expats residing in the Emirates).
• A No Objection Certificate from the UAE sponsor (provide a copy of the sponsor’s passport if the sponsor is an individual and the parent’s passport if the applicant is under 18).
• A round-trip flight itinerary.
• Proof of hotel reservation in China.
• Sufficient funds to cover the stay in China.
• Supporting documents based on visa type, such as an invitation letter for business visas and an admission letter for study visas.

How to Apply for a China Visa from the UAE

Whether you’re a UAE resident or a GCC national, the China visa application process is straightforward. Follow this step-by-step application process for a China visa for UAE residents and citizens:

1. Submit an Online Application

The first step is to submit an online application using the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) website. Here is the complete process for submitting a China visa application form:

• Visit the CVASC website.
• Choose the Dubai centre as your preferred location.
• Go to the online visa application service.
• Choose your desired visa category.
• Fill out the application form.
• Upload a photograph and the required documents.
• Review and submit the application form.
• Download the completed application form.

2. Book an Appointment

Once you have completed the application form, the next step is to schedule a China visa appointment using the CVASC website. Here is the process:

• Go to the CVASC website.
• Log in to the portal.
• Choose the date and time for your appointment.
• Confirm the appointment.
• Print the confirmation.

3. Visit the Visa Application Centre on the Appointment Date

Gather all the required documents and arrive on time at the CVASC in Dubai. Submit the documents to complete the application process.

2. Document Verification

Once the application is submitted, the CVASC staff will review and verify the information. If there are any discrepancies, the staff will notify the applicant.

3. Pay the Visa Fees

Once the application is approved, applicants can complete the fee payment process via cash or debit card. Here is the fee breakdown for a China visa for UAE residents:

4. Processing and Collection

Usually, the visa processing takes two to four working days, depending on your chosen service option. For instance, regular service takes four working days, express service takes three working days and rush service takes two working days.

Once the visa is issued, applicants can collect it from the visa centre by showing their ID and payment receipt.

Chinese Visa Application Service Centre Details

Need further assistance regarding your visa application? Visit or contact the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in Dubai. Here are the service centre details:

Location

Wafi City Mall, Falcon, Phase 2, Dubai, UAE

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 09:00 am to 03:00 pm

Contact Information

+971-4-371-1711

FAQs

That was all about obtaining a Chinese visa for UAE residents. Ensure to follow the complete process for a hassle-free visa application.

Planning a leisure trip abroad? Explore the top visa-free countries for UAE residents and enjoy a hassle-free vacation.

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