China passport → United Kingdom

United Kingdom visa for citizens of China

Embassy / VFSStandard Visitor Visa (for tourism, business, family visit, etc.)

Citizens of China need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Standard Visitor Visa (for tourism, business, family visit, etc.)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	180 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–21 days
Government fee	£138
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements covering last 6 months

How to apply

1
Complete online application
Fill and submit the Standard Visitor Visa form on gov.uk
2
Pay visa fee
Pay the £138 fee online (non-refundable)
3
Book biometrics appointment
Schedule an appointment at a VFS Global or TLScontact centre in China
4
Attend biometrics appointment
Provide fingerprints, photograph, and submit documents in person
5
Wait for processing
UKVI typically processes in 15–21 working days
6
Receive decision
Decision sent by email or courier; passport returned or held for collection

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Must have at least one blank page and be valid for the duration of stay
Passport-sized photograph
Must meet UK visa photo requirements
Travel itinerary or flight booking
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended
Proof of accommodation
Optional
Hotel booking or invitation from host

Financial

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Show sufficient funds for stay

Employment

Employment letter or proof of student status
Evidence of ties to home country

Supporting

Completed visa application form (online)
Fill and submit online via gov.uk
Visa application appointment confirmation
Proof of biometrics appointment at a visa application centre
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
From UK host
Proof of visa fee payment
Online payment receipt
Biometric residence permit (if applicable)
Optional
For previous UK visa holders

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of £100 per day of stay recommended

bank statements
pay slips
tax returns

Funds must be held in a verifiable account for at least 6 months

Good to know

Processing times may increase during peak seasons
Incomplete documentation can cause delay or refusal

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient evidence of ties to home country

Provide clear employment, property, or family ties

Inadequate financial proof

Submit 6 months of bank statements with sufficient balance

FAQ

Do citizens of China need a visa for the United Kingdom?

Citizens of China need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Standard Visitor Visa (for tourism, business, family visit, etc.).

How long can citizens of China stay in the United Kingdom?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United Kingdom visa cost for citizens of China?

Government fee: £138.

How long does United Kingdom visa processing take?

Typically 15–21 days.

What documents do citizens of China need for the United Kingdom?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form (online); Visa application appointment confirmation; Passport-sized photograph; Bank statements (last 6 months); Employment letter or proof of student status; and 5 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United Kingdom?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa

Sources

gov.uk

Plan your trip to the United Kingdom

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