Australian citizens can visit China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism, business, or family visits. Apply for longer stays at Chinese Visa Application Centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth.
Do Australians Need a Visa for China?
Australian passport holders have two options:
- Visa-free (15 days) — Tourism, business, family visits. No advance application needed.
- Chinese Visa — Stays longer than 15 days, work, study, etc.
15-Day Visa-Free Entry
Australia was added to China's expanded visa-free program in December 2024, making travel much easier.
Eligibility
- Valid Australian passport (6+ months remaining)
- Purpose: tourism, business, family visits, or transit
- Proof of onward travel (may be requested)
No extensions possible for visa-free stays. Overstay fine is 500 RMB per day (max 10,000 RMB). You may also be detained and deported.
Common Visa Types
| Type | Purpose | Typical Stay |
|---|---|---|
| L Tourist | Sightseeing, family visits | 30-90 days |
| M Business | Business meetings, trade | 30-90 days |
| X1/X2 | Study in China | X1: >6 months, X2: ≤6 months |
| Z | Work in China | 90 days entry + residence permit |
| Q2 | Visiting Chinese relatives | Up to 120 days |
Application Requirements
📄 All Visa Types
- Australian passport (valid 6+ months, 1+ blank page)
- Completed COVA online form
- One photo (48×33mm, white background, less than 6 months old)
- Previous Chinese visas (if applicable)
- Visa fee payment (credit/debit card)
🏖️ Tourist Visa (L) Extras
- Hotel bookings for all nights in China
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Travel itinerary
💼 Business Visa (M) Extras
- Invitation letter from Chinese business
- Letter from Australian employer
Step-by-Step Application
1 Complete COVA Online Form
Fill in the application at cova.mfa.gov.cn. Print the confirmation page and completed form.
2 Book Online Appointment
Schedule your visit through the visa centre website. Walk-in applications are not accepted. Peak season wait times can be 2-3 weeks.
3 Attend Your Appointment
Bring all required documents. Submit your application, have fingerprints taken (ages 14-70), and pay the fee.
4 Collect Your Passport
Standard processing takes 4 working days. You can collect in person or use the courier return service.
Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee (AUD) | Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Regular (single entry) | $109.50 | 4 working days |
| Regular (multiple entry) | $194.50 | 4 working days |
| Express (2-3 days) | + $50 | 2-3 working days |
| Postal return | + $25 | + 2-3 days |
Chinese Visa Centres in Australia
Serves: New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory
Serves: Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia
Serves: Western Australia
Serves: Queensland, Northern Territory
Common Mistakes
Chinese visa photos must be EXACTLY 48×33mm. Australian passport photos (35×45mm) are the wrong size. Get the right size done or use the photo service at the visa centre.
Apply at least 2 months before your trip. Appointments can fill up fast, and there may be unexpected delays in processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a 10-year visa?
Yes! Australian citizens can apply for 10-year multiple-entry tourist and business visas. It costs $194.50 and is great for frequent travelers.
Do I need a visa for a 14-day holiday?
No, you can use the 15-day visa-free entry. Just make sure your passport has 6 months validity and you have proof of onward travel.
Can I apply by post?
First-time applicants must attend in person for biometrics. If you've had a Chinese visa with fingerprints since 2018, you may be able to apply by post.