Complete Guide to China Business Visa (M-Visa) — 2025
China remains one of the world’s largest markets for trade and investment. If you’re travelling for meetings, trade shows, exhibitions, or commercial negotiations in 2025, you will most likely need a China Business Visa (M-Visa). This guide covers documents, process, timings, and practical tips to help you apply smoothly.
What Is a China Business Visa (M-Visa)?
The M-Visa is issued to foreign nationals visiting China for commercial and trade activities. Typical reasons include meetings, attending trade fairs, short-term business negotiations, and contract signings. Unlike a tourist visa, the business visa usually requires an official invitation from a Chinese company or organiser.
Documents Required for China Business Visa
Prepare the following documents before applying to avoid delays:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and blank visa pages
- Completed China Visa Application Form (Form V.2013) — print & sign
- Recent passport-size photographs (follow Chinese visa photo requirements)
- Official invitation letter from a Chinese company or event organiser (with company seal/details)
- Proof of business activity — contracts, event registrations, trade fair invitation, or appointment letters
- Flight itinerary and hotel booking (if available)
- Proof of funds or company financial backing if requested (bank statements or company guarantee)
- Company business license copy (inviter’s company) — sometimes required by consulate
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Obtain Invitation Letter: Request an official invitation from your Chinese host. The letter should state purpose, dates, inviter’s company details and bear an authorised signature/seal.
- Fill the Application Form: Carefully complete the official visa form. Ensure spellings and passport details match exactly.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect passport, photos, invitation, business proof, travel bookings and any company documents.
- Book Submission Slot: Many countries require online appointment booking at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or the consulate.
- Submit & Pay Fees: Submit documents in person or via authorised agent. Visa fees vary by nationality and processing speed (standard/express).
- Biometrics / Interview: Depending on local rules you may need to provide fingerprints or attend a short interview at submission.
- Wait for Processing: Typical processing time is 4–7 business days; express options may shorten this.
- Collect Passport: Pick up your passport and verify visa type, validity period and number of entries before travel.
Processing Time & Validity
Business visas can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries. Validity per entry usually ranges from 30 to 90 days, but multiple-entry visas with longer validity may be granted for frequent business travellers. Processing times are commonly 4–7 business days; express service may be offered for an additional fee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Invitation letter missing official stamp, contact details, or clear purpose of visit.
- Inconsistent names/dates between passport, invitation, and application form.
- Submitting low-quality or incorrectly sized photos.
- Forgetting to book an appointment at the visa centre or missing biometric requirements.
Helpful Tips & Best Practices
Prepare documents in advance and keep both digital scans and hard copies. Ask your Chinese host to provide a clear invitation with company registration details. If travel is time-sensitive, opt for express processing and allow buffer days for any unexpected requests by the consulate.
Final Thoughts
A China Business Visa (M-Visa) is straightforward when your paperwork is complete and your invitation is official. If you prefer assistance, authorised visa agents can help with invitation verification, document checks, and appointment scheduling. For professional help, visit Contact Us.