China Visa Online Application (COVA) — Complete Checklist

Aug,11 2026

China Visa Online Application (COVA) — Complete Checklist

📍 Application Venue: Country · City
🔗 Official Website: https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/

📌 Preface

To help you navigate the entire application process clearly and avoid unnecessary detours, we have put together this detailed, step‑by‑step checklist for the China visa online application. It covers every critical phase — from document preparation and online form filling, through the initial review and in‑person submission, to final passport collection. All key steps and common pitfalls are highlighted so you can check off each item efficiently.

Please note: This guide is for reference only. For the most current and binding requirements, always refer to the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.

Phase 1: Document Preparation (Before Starting the Form)

• Passport: Validity ≥ 6 months, at least 2 blank visa pages; for multiple‑entry visas, validity ≥ 15 months

• Passport‑style photo: 48mm × 33mm, white background, bareheaded, taken within the last 6 months (both digital and physical copies)

• Preparesupporting documents according to your visa type (invitation letter, admission notice, JW201/JW202 form, etc.)

• Confirm that you arephysically present in the country where you are applying (you must submit to the consular office in your residential district)

Phase 2: Online Form Filling (COVA System)

1. Register with an email address and log in.

2. Select your region: Region → Country (City).

3. Fill in the 9 sections step by step (Personal Information → Visa Type → Employment → Education → Family → Travel → Previous Travel → Other → Declaration).

4. Fields marked with * are mandatory; for non‑applicable items, select Not Applicable.

5. Click Save at any time to store your draft (drafts are kept for only 30 days).

6. ⚠️ Do not use the browser’s back/forward buttons — only use the Next / Previous buttons at the bottom of each page.

7. The intended date of entry must be within the next 90 days.

8. Expedited processing is recommended; the regular track may have long queues and could delay your travel. Additional fees apply for expedited service.

9. If you are coming to China for a degree program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, etc.), enter 300 days as the intended duration of stay.

10. For visa types: X1 visa is valid for 3 months; X2 visa is valid for 6 months.

Phase 3: Upload Documents & Submit

• Upload thepassport data page (mandatory).

• Upload other required materials (for student visas: Admission Notice + JW201/JW202).

• Carefully review all filled‑in information and document previews.

• Once everything is correct,submit the application.

• 📌Make sure to note down the Application Form No.

• The system will generate a 19‑digit application reference number and a barcode for appointment.

Phase 4: Initial Review (Critical Step!)

• The initial review usually takes4–6 calendar days.

• Log in to the system to check the processing status.

• Monitor your registered email — if your application is returned, revise or supplement materials according to the feedback.

• When the status changes to“Online review completed”, the initial review is passed.

Phase 5: Print Voucher & In‑Person Submission

• Download and print the“Visa Application Voucher”.

• Bring the following documents to the Chinese embassy/consulate:

• Original passport

• Printed copy of the Visa Application Voucher

• 1 physical photo (48mm × 33mm, white background)

• Original supporting documents

• Pay the fee on‑site (payment is made in person; amount subject to actual charges)

• Provide fingerprints (check whether you are exempt from fingerprinting).

• Collect thecollection slip (usually a pink slip or similar receipt).

Phase 6: Passport Collection

• Present the collection slip to pick up your passport and visa at the designated time.

• ⚠️ Once the status changes to“Ready for passport collection”, you must go to the office promptly; otherwise, the order will be automatically cancelled.

⚠️ Important Reminders

📅 Suggested Start Time

Begin the process at least 30 days before your intended departure date.