North Korea passport → China

China visa for citizens of North Korea

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa (L Visa)

Citizens of North Korea need a visa for China and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Tourist Visa (L Visa)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per the checklist.
2
Fill online form and book appointment
Complete the visa application form on the CVASC website and schedule an appointment.
3
Visit visa application centre
Go in person to the designated Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) with all documents.
4
Submit biometrics (fingerprints)
Provide digital fingerprints and a photograph at the centre.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the applicable visa fee and service charge (cash or card accepted).
6
Wait for processing
Wait for the standard processing time (usually 4-5 working days).
7
Collect passport
Return to the centre to collect the passport with visa, or choose courier delivery if available.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (original)
Must have at least 6 months validity and 2 blank visa pages.
Recent passport-size photo
Color, white background, 48x33mm, taken within 6 months.
Completed visa application form
Fill out online on the official visa website and print.

Travel

Flight itinerary (round trip)
Confirmed booking showing entry and exit from China.
Hotel reservation
Proof of accommodation for the entire stay.

Financial

Proof of financial means
Bank statements or pay slips for the last 3-6 months.
Travel health insurance
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory for short stays.

Employment

Employment letter or study certificate
From employer or school stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Proof of funds

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Pay slips
Tax returns

Sufficient funds to cover travel expenses; no fixed minimum specified.

Good to know

If your passport is endorsed for public affairs or official trip, no visa is required.
Visa processing times may vary; apply well in advance of travel.
Biometrics are required for most applicants aged 14-70.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all required documents and their validity.

Insufficient financial proof

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate funds.

Unclear travel itinerary

Provide a detailed day-by-day travel plan and hotel bookings.

Previous immigration violations

Include a cover letter explaining any past issues if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of North Korea need a visa for China?

Citizens of North Korea need a visa for China and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (L Visa).

What documents do citizens of North Korea need for China?

Valid passport (original); Recent passport-size photo; Completed visa application form; Flight itinerary (round trip); Hotel reservation; Proof of financial means; and 2 more.

How long must my passport be valid for China?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to China

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