Nobody has the exact date as to when China will resume issuing tourist visas. According to the Chinese consulate in New York as of February 12, 2023, “Visa applications for tourism and medical treatment in China are temporarily not accepted”. That is the clearest update we can find anywhere both online and through our grapevine in China.
One can only hope that the temporary suspension will be lifted soon considering that COVID infection rate and related deaths in China have been in rapid decline since peaking early in January. Looking ahead, we are more concerned about the archaic and frustrating visa application process. Unlike so many other countries such as India, China does not have a centralized online platform to guide visa applicants from around the world, let alone issuing e-visas or visa approvals online. Every diplomatic mission of China does its business differently and seems to follow different standards in terms of competence and friendliness.
For the latest on China’s tourist visa policy, it’s better to visit the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country or area.
Before you go, why not check out our list of China tours for 2023 and 2024.
China tours - the Great Wall at Mutianyu
