A New Era in UAE-China Travel Begins
Great news for people living in the UAE who want to visit China—China has launched a new and improved visa application system! If you’re planning to visit China for tourism, business, studies, or to meet family, applying for a visa is now much easier and faster than before.
From June 30, 2025, the Chinese Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai have stopped using paper forms and introduced a fully online visa application process. This makes applying more convenient, especially for the large number of Indian nationals and NRIs living in the UAE.
Why Did China Update Its Visa Process?
China wants to make it easier for travellers from around the world to visit the country. The old visa system involved downloading and printing forms, which many found confusing and time-consuming. With the new online visa system, the process becomes:
- Faster
- Less paperwork
- No need for appointments after online submission
- More secure and efficient
This new system is now mandatory for all travellers applying from the UAE.
What’s New in the Visa Process?
Here’s a quick look at what’s changed:
Old System
- Fill and print a PDF form.
- Visit center with appointment
- Paper submissions
- Longer processing time
New System
- Fill form online on the official China visa portal
- No appointment needed after online approval
- Online submission first, physical documents later
- Faster initial review and response
The Revamped Visa Application System
Launched officially on June 30, 2025, the new Chinese visa application system for UAE residents includes the following major updates:
Fully Digital Form Submission
- All applicants must now visit the Chinese Visa Application Portal.
- The older, downloadable PDF visa forms have been discontinued permanently.
- Applicants must complete the visa application form online, upload scanned copies of all required documents, and submit their application digitally.
Visa Application Certificate (VAC)
- Once your application is reviewed and preliminarily approved, you will receive a Visa Application Certificate (VAC) via email.
- This is a mandatory document and must be printed and submitted along with your passport at the next step.
No More Appointment Booking Required
- Unlike the previous system, you do not need to book an appointment after receiving the VAC. Simply walk into the designated visa center in Dubai or Abu Dhabi with your documents.
In-Person Submission at CVASC
You’ll then submit your original passport, VAC, printed form, and other supporting documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in your selected jurisdiction.
Visa Types Available Under New System
Visa Type
- L Visa
- M Visa
- Q1/Q2 Visa
- S1/S2 Visa
- X Visa
Purpose
- Tourism
- Business
- Family visits
- Accompanying family
- Study
Requirements
- Hotel booking, travel tickets
- Invitation letter from Chinese firm
- Invitation from Chinese citizen or resident
- Proof of relationship + residency permit copy
- Admission letter from Chinese university
How Indian Travellers & NRIs in UAE Can Use This System
Indian nationals make up one of the largest expat communities in the UAE, and the updated visa system opens up smoother travel options for them.
Who Qualifies?
- Indian passport holders with valid UAE residency visas
- Indian students, business professionals, or tourists residing in the UAE with a valid UAE residence visa.
- NRIs with long-term UAE residency planning a trip to China
Required Documents for Indian Applicants
In addition to standard requirements:
- Copy of UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID copy
- Supporting documents tailored to your visa category (hotel booking/invitation/etc.)
- Passport must have at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages
Benefits for Indian Passport Holders in UAE
- No need to travel to India to apply for a China visa
- Streamlined online process from the UAE
- No appointment hassle for document drop-off
- Increased chances of approval with UAE documentation (compared to home country applications)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete Documents: Missing UAE visa copy, Emirates ID, or proof of stay will lead to rejection.
- Incorrect Photo Size: Use the required 33mm x 48mm size with a white background.
- Last-Minute Travel Bookings: Always apply before purchasing non-refundable tickets.
- Using Wrong Jurisdiction: Ensure you apply via Dubai or Abu Dhabi based on your emirate of residence.
- Not Printing VAC: Visa Application Certificate must be printed and submitted physically.
