Applied for a China visa and can’t stop refreshing your inbox? You’re not alone. Whether you’re going for sightseeing along the Great Wall, attending a business conference, or visiting family, waiting for visa approval can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re unsure how to track it.

The good news? You don’t have to stay in the dark. China’s official visa application centres provide a simple online tracking system so you can check your application status anytime. Here’s everything you need to know.

How to check the China visa status online?

You can easily track your visa by visiting the official China Visa Application Service Centre website for your region. Here’s how:

Step 1: Visit the official website and start logging in or signing up for your account.

Step 2: Now, after logging in, select the My Account tab on the homepage. 

Step 3: Click on ‘Visa’ and then select ‘Track Your Application’ to view your current visa status.

Step 4: Enter the application number, passport number, and full name, and click the search button.

What is the processing time for a Chinese visa?

When you submit all the required documents, the China Visa Application Service Centre offers three processing speeds:

1. Regular Service: Processing usually takes 4 working days. For example, if you apply on Monday, your passport will typically be ready for collection on Thursday.

2. Express Service: Processing is faster, usually 3 working days.

3. Rush Service: The quickest option, usually 2 working days, with applications accepted between 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM.
   

Important: Express and Rush services are not available for first-time Chinese visa applicants or for those applying for F, M, X1, X2, and Z visas. If you fall into these categories, be sure to apply well in advance.

Note: The consular officer may request additional documents, supplementary materials, or even an interview. This can extend the processing time beyond the standard service timelines mentioned above.

How will I receive it once the Chinese visa is approved? 

Once your Chinese visa is approved, it will be placed as a sticker in your passport. This visa sticker includes important details such as your visa type, validity period, number of entries, and permitted duration of stay.

You can collect your passport in one of two ways:

• In person: Visit the China Visa Application Service Centre on your scheduled collection date and present your pick-up slip and valid ID.

• By courier: If you selected a delivery option when applying, your passport with the visa will be shipped to your address.
  

Before leaving the visa centre (or upon receiving your passport by courier), check that all the visa details are correct, including your name, passport number, visa type, and dates, to avoid issues at the border.

Here is what the Chinese visa looks like: 

Common China Visa Status Outcomes

When you track your application online, you’ll usually see one of these status messages:

• Under Processing – Your application is still being reviewed by the Chinese consulate. No action is needed unless you’re contacted for more documents.

• Ready for Collection – Your passport is ready to be picked up from the visa centre or will be sent by courier (if you chose delivery).

• Approved / Issued – Your visa has been granted and placed in your passport.

• Returned – Your passport has been returned, possibly without a visa. Check the accompanying letter or notice for details.

• Rejected – Your visa application has been refused. The refusal notice may include the reason.

• Pending Additional Documents – More information or documents are required before your application can proceed.

• Expired – Your application or issued visa is no longer valid; you’ll need to reapply.