The G visa is for foreigners transiting through mainland China to a third country or region. It is intended for travelers who do not qualify for China’s visa-free transit policies or who need to leave the airport transit area.
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Who Qualifies
- Foreigners transiting through China to a third country/region who do not meet the requirements for visa-free transit
- Travelers needing to leave the airport or transit area during their layover
Required Documents
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months, with at least 1 blank visa page)
- Completed Visa Application Form (COVA), printed and signed
- Recent passport photo (color, white background, 33x48mm, taken within the last 6 months)
- Valid visa or residence permit for the destination country (if required)
- Confirmed onward ticket (air, train, or ship) with a fixed date and seat to the third country/region
- Proof of legal stay/residence (if applying outside your country of citizenship)
- Additional documents as required by the consulate or embassy
Application Process
- Complete the COVA online visa application form and print all required pages
- Gather all required documents
- Book an appointment at your local Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa center (if required)
- Submit your application in person or via an authorized agent; provide fingerprints if required
- Wait for processing (typically 4 working days; express and rush services may be available)
- Collect your passport and visa or arrange for return by mail if available
Special Notes
- The G visa is usually single- or double-entry, with a maximum stay of 7–10 days per entry
- Before applying, check if you qualify for China’s expanded visa-free transit policies (now up to 240 hours/10 days for 55 countries and 60 ports)
- For short transits (under 24 hours), most travelers do not require a visa and can apply for a temporary stay permit at the airport if leaving the transit zone
- Fees are generally the same as for a tourist (L) visa