Questions and answers on 10-year multiple entry visa

On November 11, 2014, US and China reached agreement on 10-year multiple entry visa for business, tourist, family visit and study.

On March 9, 2015, similar agreement was reached between Canada and China.

So now US and Canadian citizens can apply for visa which is valid for a maximum of 10 years.

I. Questions and Answers

Q: I have a valid Chinese visa on my old passport, can I apply for a new 10-year visa using my new passport?

A: If it has a validity over 6 months, the answer is NO. Please use both passports together.

If the Chinese visa on your old passport expires within 6 months, the answer should be YES, but different consulate may have slightly different rules (and change from time to time). Please contact us for details.

Chinese Embassy at Washington DC: If your scheduled travel date is after your visa expiration date, you may apply. However, provide a written explanation.

Name:
Current passport number:
I have a valid Chinese visa (visa # xxxx) on my old US passport, which expires on xxxx. Since my travel date is after the visa expiration date, I request the consulate to issue me a new visa.
Signature_______________
Date:

Q: What types of visa are included in the 10-year visa agreement?

A: USA: Tourist(L), business and trade (M), short-term family visit (Q2) or for private matters (S2) can get 10-year multiple entry visa. Study (X1) may get 5-year multiple entry visa.

Canada: Similar to US, but maximum length of visa does not go beyond passport expiration date.

Q: My passport will expire in 3 years, can I get a 10-year visa?

A: USA: YES. 10-year visa require that your passport has at least one of validity when you apply. After you get your new passport, you can bring both old and new passports together for your travel to China. Note the key information on the passports must agree.

Canada: NO. The visa will not go beyond your passport expiration date.

Q: Are there any changes in application documents?

A: NO, there is no change in documentation requirements as a result of 10 year visa. However, documentation may change over time, unrelated to 10-year visa, so check latest requirements on our web site.

Q: I am going to a scientific conference in China, can I get 10-year visa with an invitation letter from conference organizer?

A: NO. This belongs to "non-business" visit and it was not covered in the agreements. You will still be issued a 1-year multiple entry visa.