São Tomé and Príncipe passport → China

China visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa (L) · Single Entry

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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) · Single Entry
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	4–5 days
Government fee	$140 + $30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as per checklist.
2
Complete online application form
Fill out the visa application form on the CVASC website.
3
Book appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Chinese Visa Application Service Center.
4
Pay visa fees
Pay the visa fee and service fee online or at the center.
5
Attend appointment in person
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 4-5 business days.
7
Collect passport
Return to the center to collect your passport with visa, or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
Recent passport-size photo
White background, 33mm x 48mm
Proof of residence in São Tomé and Príncipe
e.g., utility bill or ID card

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed booking with dates
Hotel reservation for entire stay
Must cover all nights in China

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Showing sufficient funds for trip

Employment

Proof of employment or leave letter
For employed applicants

Supporting

Completed visa application form
Online form printed and signed
Travel insurance covering medical expenses
Optional
Recommended but not mandatory
Copy of previous Chinese visas (if any)
Optional
If applicable
Invitation letter from Chinese host (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
Notarized copy required
Visa application fee payment receipt
Paid at CVASC or bank
Appointment confirmation
Printed from CVASC website
Additional documents for minors (birth certificate, parental consent)
Optional
If traveling with one parent

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $1,000 USD

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay.

Good to know

Visa application must be submitted in person; no third-party submission allowed.
Incomplete applications may be rejected without refund.
Visa validity starts from date of issue, not date of travel.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields before submission.

Insufficient funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance.

Invalid passport validity

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.

Missing required documents

Follow the checklist carefully.

FAQ

Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for China?

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for China and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (L) · Single Entry.

How long can citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe stay in China?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the China visa cost for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe?

Government fee: $140 + $30 service fee.

How long does China visa processing take?

Typically 4–5 days.

What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need for China?

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-size photo; Round-trip flight itinerary; Hotel reservation for entire stay; Proof of employment or leave letter; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for China?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.visaforchina.org/

Sources

visaforchina.org

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