UK Standard Visitor Visa for Chinese citizens: Complete guide

For Chinese tourists, the United Kingdom is an enchanting destination with a rich history, dynamic culture, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. However, before you go, you must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa.

We aim to equip you with the necessary insights about the requirements, documentation, visa fees, and other information and assist you with the entire process.

Do Chinese citizens need a Visitor Visa for the United Kingdom?

Yes.

Before you visit the UK, you must apply for the UK Visitor Visa (also called the Standard Visitor Visa). This rule is also applicable to children and minors from China.

With this visa, you can:

• Tourism
• Business
• Family visits
• Layovers
• Short courses
• Medical treatments
• Voluntary work

Chinese citizens are required to attend a visa appointment at a designated visa application center or a nearby embassy. During this appointment, the applicant's biometric information will be collected, and all necessary documents must be submitted. In certain instances, an interview might also be required.

For more details about long-term UK Visas, such as a work visa please refer to the government website.

UK Visitor Visa: Eligibility criteria for Chinese citizens

In addition to your nationality, there are several other eligibility criteria you need to fulfill to get approved for this visa, including:

• Intent to depart the UK: You must declare your intention to exit the UK before the expiration of your visa.

• Financial capacity: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to sustain yourself and any dependents throughout your travel. If someone else is financing your trip, you must provide evidence of their capability.

• Return or onward travel: It's essential to demonstrate your ability to cover the expenses of your return or onward journey from the United Kingdom.

UK Standard Visitor Visa requirements for Chinese citizens

During the visa application process, we'll send you a complete document listing everything you must bring to the visa appointment.

Here's a general overview of UK Visa application requirements for Chinese citizens:

• Valid passport – An ordinary passport from China, valid for up to six months beyond the intended stay.

• Completed visa application form - You'll receive the online application form during the process on our platform.

• Proof of enough funds – You don't need a specific amount. Still, you must generally be able to cover the UK Visa fees and all your travel expenses and prove your ability to do so by providing bank statements.

• Travel itinerary – Detailed travel plans outlining the purpose and planned activities during your stay in the United Kingdom.

• Accommodation details: Proof of accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.

• Details of any criminal, civil, or immigration offenses (if applicable) you may have committed. Be honest!

Extra documents may be required based on your situation, such as business registration documents, legal guardian's details, and a birth certificate when traveling with children.

How long can Chinese citizens stay in the UK with the Standard Visitor Visa?

With a UK Standard Visitor Visa, citizens of China can typically stay in the United Kingdom for up to 180 days per entry.

This Multiple Entry visa must be used within six months from the date of issuance. However, the actual length of your stay will be determined by the immigration officer based on the purpose of your trip and your supporting documents.

How to apply for the UK Standard Visitor Visa from China

There are a few different way to apply for this visa.

Through the official government website: Go to the official website for the application and follow the instructions.

Via iVisa: To start the process for the United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa application with our expert guidance, follow these simple steps:

• Step 1: Complete your personal and travel information on our website or the iVisa app.

• Step 2: You'll receive a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the more complex parts and a complete list of documents you must submit. Our experts will meticulously check your application, and we'll schedule a visa appointment on your behalf.

• Step 3: Attend your visa appointment at the UK Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC) near you. During the appointment, you must provide biometric data and, in some cases, undergo an interview.

In both cases, the UK immigration authorities will require your passport to issue the approved UK Visitor Visa. You'll receive an email explaining how and where to pick up your passport with your approved visa!

More info about the UK Visitor Visa

For questions or concerns regarding the UK Standard Visitor Visa and travel documents for Chinese travelers, contact us via online chat or WhatsApp. We're here to help!