---
title: United Kingdom visa for citizens of China
description: "Citizens of China need a visa for the United Kingdom and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: £138. Processing: 15–21 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-kingdom/china
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# United Kingdom visa for citizens of China

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.*

Official application site: https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Travel): Must have at least one blank page and be valid for the duration of stay
- **Completed visa application form (online)** (Supporting): Fill and submit online via gov.uk
- **Visa application appointment confirmation** (Supporting): Proof of biometrics appointment at a visa application centre
- **Passport-sized photograph** (Travel): Must meet UK visa photo requirements
- **Travel itinerary or flight booking** (Travel, optional): Not mandatory but recommended
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel, optional): Hotel booking or invitation from host
- **Bank statements (last 6 months)** (Financial): Show sufficient funds for stay
- **Employment letter or proof of student status** (Employment): Evidence of ties to home country
- **Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): From UK host
- **Proof of visa fee payment** (Supporting): Online payment receipt
- **Biometric residence permit (if applicable)** (Supporting, 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

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa)

## More

- [United Kingdom visa for every passport](/visa/united-kingdom)
- [Every destination for China passport holders](/visa/passport/china)