Tourist Visa to China via France: A Complete Guide for Applicants

Obtaining a tourist visa to China via France is one of the most convenient options for those legally residing within the EU. In particular, this type of authorization is available to citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Moldova, Georgia, Armenia, and other foreign nationals who temporarily or permanently reside in the French Republic.

What Is a Tourist Visa to China Issued For?

A tourist visa to China (Category L) is generally issued for the following purposes:

• tourism and sightseeing trips;

• individual travel across China;

• visiting friends, partners, or acquaintances without commercial purposes;

• short-term leisure, participation in cultural events and festivals.

It is important to understand that this visa category does not grant the right to work, study, or conduct business activities within China. Separate types of permits are required for those purposes.

Who Can Apply for a Tourist Visa to China in France?

Foreign nationals who are legally present in France and can document their status may apply for a tourist visa to China in France.

Acceptable grounds for residence include:

• French residence permit (carte de séjour) — temporary or permanent;

• long-stay national visa (type D);

• temporary protection status or humanitarian residence permit (relevant for Ukrainian citizens);

• student residence permit;

• work residence permit or EU Blue Card.

A short-term Schengen visa (type C) is generally not accepted as sufficient grounds for application.

Application Stages for a Tourist Visa to China via France

The process of applying for a tourist visa to China through Paris includes several mandatory steps:

1. Preliminary document review — case assessment.

2. Completion of the online application form (CVASC) in English or Chinese.

3. Appointment booking at the Chinese Visa Application Center in Paris.

4. Personal submission of documents (mandatory in most cases).

5. Submission of biometric data — fingerprints are required if not previously provided.

6. Waiting for the decision and receiving the passport with the visa.

Even minor details are critical at each stage, as errors in the application form or inconsistencies in dates may lead to refusal without the right to appeal.

Required Documents for a Tourist Visa to China in France

To apply for a tourist visa to China in France, you will need the following categories of documents:

Mandatory:

• passport valid for at least 6 months after returning from the trip;

• copy of the passport’s first page;

• completed visa application form;

• photo (4.8 × 3.3 cm);

• proof of legal residence in France;

• round-trip flight booking;

• proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter).

Depending on residence status:

• French residence permit + attestation de droits;

• student certificate from an educational institution;

• employment contract or employer attestation.

Additional documents (to strengthen the case):

• bank statement (recommended balance: €2,500–3,500 or more);

• detailed travel itinerary by day;

• previous visas to China or G7 countries;

• cover letter explaining the purpose of the trip.

A properly prepared file significantly increases the chances of visa approval.

Cost, Validity, and Processing Time of a Tourist Visa to China

Obtaining a tourist visa to China in France is subject to the following conditions:

1. Consular fee: on average €60–90 (depends on nationality).

2.  Visa center service fee: approximately €30–40.

3. Processing time:

• standard — 5–7 working days;

• urgent — 2–3 working days (with justified grounds).

4. Validity:

• the visa may be single-entry or double-entry;

• maximum stay — up to 30 days per entry;

• entry into China must occur within 90 days from the date of issuance.

Addresses of the Chinese Embassy and Visa Centers in France

Applications for a tourist visa to China in France are submitted through the official visa center:

• Chinese Visa Application Service Center: Paris, 165 Avenue de Neuilly, 94120 Fontenay-sous-Bois
  Phone: +33 1 40 70 04 01

Також корисно буде знати контакти посольства Китаю у Франції:

• Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in France:
  20 Rue Monsieur, 75007 Paris
  Phone: +33 1 49 52 88 88

Main Reasons for Refusal

Based on practice, refusals of tourist visas to China most often occur due to:

• inappropriate residence status in France;

• insufficient financial proof;

• inconsistencies between the application form and supporting documents;

• doubts regarding the tourist purpose of the trip;

• previous visa violations.
  
  

China does not provide official explanations for refusals, which makes proper preparation essential.

Why Choose Us?

By working with us, you receive:

• specialized expertise in Chinese visas with applications filed in France;

• preliminary assessment of approval chances and potential risks before submission;

• experience working with nationals of various countries and different residence statuses;

• full turnkey support — from application preparation to passport collection;

• strict compliance with the current requirements of Chinese visa centers.

In other words, we do not simply submit documents — we proactively eliminate weaknesses in your case and minimize the risk of refusal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to apply for a visa without in person?

 In most cases — yes.

Can I apply if my residence permit is about to expire?

Generally, the residence permit must cover the travel period plus at least one additional month.

Are confirmed tickets required or is a booking sufficient?

A booking is acceptable, but it must appear credible and consistent.

Can a tourist visa be extended in China?

Theoretically possible, but in practice extensions are rarely granted and only for compelling reasons.