Iranian citizens typically need a visa for China

As of 2026-09-22

Processing

4 working days

Fee

Set by nationality; 25% reduction to 31 Dec 2026

Max Stay

Per visa conditions

Apply At

NIA — Countries Covered by Unilateral Visa-Exemption Policies (17 February 2026) →

Last updated: 2026-09-22 • Information may change—always verify with official sources.

China Visa Overview for Iranian Citizens

Iranian citizens require a visa to visit China. Tourist (L) visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre or mission where no centre exists; consular fees are set by nationality and reduced by 25% until 31 December 2026; applicants for stays of up to 180 days are exempt from fingerprinting until 31 December 2026. Iranian applicants typically apply through the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, in person or through one of its 66 approved agencies, after the online form at consular.mfa.gov.cn.

Applicants should gather all required documents including a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity, proof of accommodation, a travel itinerary, and financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds. Applications from Iranian citizens are processed through the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, in person or through one of its 66 approved agencies, after the online form at consular.mfa.gov.cn.

Once approved, Iranian passport holders may stay in China for the duration specified on the visa.

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Available Visa Types for Iranian Citizens

Visa-Free Entry (30 Days)

Citizens of 50 countries under the unilateral policy to 31 December 2026, plus Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the UAE and others under treaties: 30 days per entry for tourism, business, visits, exchanges or transit

None: present your passport at the borderFree

240-Hour Visa-Free Transit

Citizens of 57 countries, including the United States, Mexico, Indonesia and Vietnam, transiting to a third country through 65 ports in 24 provinces: up to ten days

Granted at the port of entryFree

Tourist (L) Visa

The standard visa for a holiday or a visit to friends, applied for online through COVA and lodged at a visa application centre or mission

4 working days standardBy nationality: US$140, £64, Rs2,900, NGN 10,500; 25% reduced to 31 Dec 2026

Business (M) Visa

For commercial and trade activities on the invitation of a Chinese company, with the same fee schedule as the tourist visa and multi-year validity for some nationalities

4 working days standardSame schedule as the L visa

How to Apply

Gather required documents: valid passport (6+ months validity), passport-size photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and bank statements

Complete the visa application through the China embassy or authorized visa agent

Pay the visa application fee of the applicable amount

Submit your application through the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, in person or through one of its 66 approved agencies, after the online form at consular.mfa.gov.cn

Wait for processing (typically 4 working days)

Receive your visa — check whether it is sent by email or requires passport collection

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Rules for every traveller

Border documents, stay conditions and the mistakes that get travellers refused are the same whatever your passport. Read them in the China visa guide.

Important Notes for Iranian Applicants

Iranian citizens apply through the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, in person or through one of its 66 approved agencies, after the online form at consular.mfa.gov.cn
The embassy suspended visa services from 1 March 2026 and resumed them on 8 July 2026 with a new online form; allow at least two weeks.
Standard processing takes 4 working days — priority or express services may be available for an additional fee
Visa provision for Iranian passport holders is unusually volatile — confirm the current status directly with the embassy or application centre before paying fees or booking flights

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Iranian citizens need a visa for China?

Yes, Iranian citizens typically need a visa to visit China. Standard processing takes 4 working days. Always check with official sources for the latest requirements.

How long does the China visa take to process for Iranian citizens?

Standard processing for Iranian applicants typically takes 4 working days. Apply well in advance of your travel dates as processing times can vary. Check with the application centre for current wait times.

Where do Iranian citizens apply for a China visa?

Iranian citizens typically apply through the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, in person or through one of its 66 approved agencies, after the online form at consular.mfa.gov.cn. Book appointments early, especially during peak travel seasons.