Maybe it's just me, but the process of getting a Visa for China was a headache! Unlike most countries where I've had to apply for a Visa, the process was complicated and time consuming. You can go via an agent for a fee (anything upward of £50) but if you put the time and effort in, it's better to do this yourself.
Firstly, the Chinese Visa website is not the easiest to navigate (link below). You need to click the 'Chinese Visa Application Service Centre' link to navigate through to the application form. Thankfully, as I live in London, I was able to go and do this in person rather than a postal application. A point to note, you do NOT go to the Chinese Embassy, you go to the Application Centre which is a few minutes walk from BANK tube station and served by multiple tube lines. I got up early to beat the queues on my way to work at 7.30am, to arrive there and 10 people were in the queue ahead of me! The office opens at 9am but luckily I was seen within 15 minutes.
However, I was turned away as I had not booked an appointment!!
I learnt the hard way and booked an appointment online there and then. It's appointment basis only (unless you are collecting) and the appointment booking system is on the website but hard to find, clearly!! You have to surrender your passport so make sure you aren't planning to travel within the next 2 weeks.
Here is a list of all the things you need to provide alongside your application:
- Completed application form
- Passport
- 1 passport sized photo
- Flight tickets
- Hotel or accommodation details
- A photo copy of the main photo part of your passport
Thankfully when my appointment came, I had all the stuff they needed and my Visa was processed. It takes about 5-7 working days which isn't too bad and you don't need an appointment to collect and pay for your Visa. They just give you a date when you need to go back after and collect it.
If you are not flying out but travelling overland or to another country such as Tibet, it can get a bit trickier but still all doable. Ultimately, you need to get all your ducks in a row and plan in advance (unlike me) and it should be ok.
Map and opening times below:
