Applying for a Chinese visa from the UAE has been simplified with the introduction of new online application systems by the Chinese Embassy and the Chinese Consulate in Dubai.
New online system
The Chinese Embassy in the UAE launched its online visa application platform on June 30, followed by the Chinese Consulate in Dubai this week.
The digital system allows applicants to fill out forms and upload supporting documents online, reducing the need for initial paperwork submission.
The China Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC), which handles visa processing for ordinary passport holders, announced that the previous online application form was discontinued on June 30. Applicants who submitted forms via the old system must submit their documents in person by July 10.
After this date, CVASC Dubai will no longer accept new visa applications and will only handle passport collections until the new process is fully adopted.
Application guidelines
Applicants are advised to apply at least one month before their intended travel date and to avoid booking flights before visa approval. Delays or rejections are the applicant’s responsibility.
Previously, visa applications required completing a downloadable form and submitting physical documents at CVASC in person. The new system moves the initial steps online for faster processing.
How to apply
Applicants should:
Visit www.consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/ and create an account, selecting Dubai as the location.
Complete the online visa application form (excluding Hong Kong and Macao SAR visas).
Upload scans of passport biodata, a recent photo, and relevant supporting documents.
Submit the application for preliminary online review.
Applicants will receive an email with either a request for additional documents (“Rejected” status) or approval with a “Visa Application Certificate.” This certificate must be printed.
In-person submission and fingerprinting
Following online approval, applicants must visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in Dubai to submit originals and pay fees. Required documents include the printed Visa Application Certificate, original passport(s), photos if needed, and all supporting papers.
Fingerprint collection applies to all ordinary passport holders, except applicants under 14 or over 70, diplomatic passport holders, and certain short-term visa applicants between September 2, 2024, and December 31, 2025.
Visa and service fees are paid onsite by cash or card.
Processing and collection
Standard processing takes about four working days from in-person submission. Passports can be collected at CVASC during operating hours with the original pick-up form.
The Chinese Embassy and Consulate urge applicants to review detailed instructions on their official websites and prepare all required documents carefully before applying.
