China has introduced a new online visa application system for UAE residents, aimed at streamlining the process and reducing paperwork. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the UAE officially rolled out the system on June 30, followed by the Chinese Consulate in Dubai, which activated the service on July 14.
The new system allows applicants to complete and submit visa forms online, upload required documents, and reduce the need for initial in-person visits. It replaces the previous “Online Chinese Visa Application Form System,” which is now discontinued.
According to the China Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in Dubai, any applications submitted using the older system had to be completed in person at the Dubai office by July 10. From July 11 onward, the CVASC in Dubai no longer accepts new applications and will only handle passport collection services.
Officials strongly advise travelers not to purchase flight tickets until their visas are approved. Applications may face delays or rejections, and any financial losses due to early bookings will be the applicant’s responsibility. Applicants are also encouraged to apply at least one month before their planned travel date.
The new application process involves three steps:
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Online Submission
Applicants must visit www.consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/, create an account, and fill out the application form for the appropriate visa type. Clear scans of the passport, recent photographs, and supporting documents must be uploaded. -
Offline Document Submission in Dubai
Once online approval is received via email, applicants will be issued a Visa Application Certificate. With this certificate and printed documents, they must visit the CVASC in Dubai in person. An appointment is not required. Visa fees must be paid on-site. -
Collection of Passport
After submission, standard processing time is four working days. Applicants can collect their passport with the visa by presenting the original pick-up slip during the CVASC’s working hours.
All ordinary passport holders will have their fingerprints collected, except for applicants under 14, over 70, or those applying for certain short-term visa types between September 2, 2024, and December 31, 2025.
The Chinese Embassy and Consulate have asked all applicants to carefully read the official instructions before beginning the process and to prepare all documents thoroughly to avoid rejections or delays.
The update comes as more UAE travelers are showing interest in visiting China amid growing bilateral travel and business exchanges.
