To get a Chinese tourist visa, known as an L Visa, you must complete the application form and submit it, along with the supplementary articles, to the Chinese Embassy or consulate general. All Americans are required to hold a visa before entering China. The process is fairly smooth; once issued, you have up to 90 days to enter China. Do not wait to the last minute to apply, or risk canceling your trip.

The Application

Begin by downloading the visa application form from the website of the Chinese Embassy to the United States. The form can be found by following the quick link on the left side of the embassy homepage titled "Chinese Visas..." and then selecting "Tourist Visa (L Visa)." Complete the form by typing onto the document; do not write in your information by hand. Print when complete.

Passport and Photos

After completion of the application form, attach two identical passport-size photos (2 by 2 inches on white background) to it. You will also need to present/send your passport (and a photocopy of the information page) with your application. Make sure your passport has at least six months remaining validity. You must present/send your physical passport; not just the copy.

Entries and Fees

A single entry into China is considered a stay of no more than 30 days. You can apply for a variety of entries based on your need; if you are to be a frequent visitor to China for a period of six, 12, or 24 months, then you must apply for a visa that corresponds to your needs. The visa types include: single entry, double entry, multiple entry for six months; multiple entry for 12 months; and multiple entry for 24 months. The visa fee for all types is US$130, as of 2010. The fee can be paid with any major credit card, money order or cashier's check. Make the checks payable to the Chinese embassy or consulate general. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.

Chinese Consulates

You must submit your visa application to the Chinese embassy or consulate general that has jurisdiction over the state in which you reside. To find which consulate has jurisdiction over your region, visit the homepage of the Chinese Embassy to the United States and select "Chinese Visa..." on the left side of the screen and choose the "embassy and consulates" link at the bottom of the page.

Submission and Processing

Send or submit your application in person. If sending through the mail, you must use a certified visa courier agency (such as Travel Visa Pro or Visa Express). Once your application has been submitted, it will usually take up to four days to reach approval. Faster processing is available for a fee. Processing of two to three days requires a $20 fee, while same-day pickup requires a $30 fee.

Source:

Embassy of the People's Republic of China to the United States of America

More Information:

Chinese Embassy to the U.S.: Chinese Visa Application