China Business Visa for Australian citizens: Apply today!

As the world's second-largest economy, China’s dynamic market, booming industries, and vast consumer base offer an unparalleled opportunity for international businesses to thrive and expand their horizons.

For entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from Australia seeking to tap into this immense potential of getting a Chinese visa, the China Business Visa, in particular, becomes a gateway to unlocking a realm of possibilities.

Check the requirements, fees, and validity information in this article, and apply directly on our user-friendly platform or the handy iVisa app!

What is the China Business Visa for Australians?

The China Business Visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to visit China for business-related purposes. A valid Chinese visa allows holders to engage in business activities such as attending conferences, trade shows, business meetings, negotiations, and other commercial or trade-related endeavors.

Unlike countries with visa-free entry benefits, Australian citizens must first go through the process of getting the appropriate travel documents to enter China. In order to apply for a China Business Visa, also known as the M visa, Australian citizens must follow a variety of requirements and procedures, including the Chinese embassy or consulate where they apply.

Benefits of the Chinese Business Visa for Australian visitors

By gaining access to the bustling business landscape of mainland China, individuals can immerse themselves in cutting-edge innovation, forge strategic partnerships, and participate in a multitude of business events.

With the allure of China's economic prowess and its role as a central hub for international commerce, the China Business Visa beckons those eager to explore new frontiers and cultivate prosperous ventures in the heart of the East.

Discover everything you need to obtain the China Business Visa and explore the vast opportunities in one of the world's most influential business hubs.

Can I work in China with this business visa?

The China Business Visa (M visa) does not permit foreign nationals to work in CHina, just like the tourist visa.

The M visa is specifically designed for short-term business-related activities, such as attending conferences, trade shows, business meetings, and commercial negotiations.

If you intend to work in China, you would need a different type of visa, such as a work visa (Z visa). The Z visa is issued to individuals who have been offered a job by a Chinese company and have obtained the necessary work permits and approvals from Chinese authorities. Find out more on the Chinese Embassy’s website in Australia.

If you are an Australian citizen or resident and wish to work in China, you must go through the proper channels and apply by completing the Chinese Visa form to get the appropriate work visa before starting employment.

Working in China without the proper visa and work permits can lead to serious legal consequences, including deportation and potential bans on re-entry.

China Business Visa validity for Australian citizens

Currently, the China Business Visa (M Visa) available to Australian citizens is a Multiple Entry visa. You must enter China within 1 year after issued and you can stay in China for 90 days Per Entry.

China Business Visa: Required documents for Australian citizens

Gather the following documents for your Chinese Visa application:

• Original current passport: With at least six months of validity and blank visa pages. You will need to apply with a renewed foreign passport if your passport has expired or is nearing expiration. The name on the passport must match the visa application form.

• Recent passport photo: If you don't have one, use our handy digital passport photo service.

• Invitation letter issued by the Chinese government: The invitation letter must contain all the required information about your trip.

• If you apply for a Chinese visa in a different country of your citizenship, you must present documents that assure proof of legal residency status.

• Applicants who are Chinese citizens or have obtained foreign citizenship should present a photocopy of their previous Chinese passport or previous Chinese visa.

Passport requirements for Australian citizens

For Australian citizens planning to travel abroad, including to China, a valid passport that meets the requirements for Australian citizens:

Validity: Your current passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the foreign country. This is a standard requirement for most international travel, including visits to China.

Blank pages: Ensure that your passport has at least two blank pages for visa and entry/exit stamps.

Condition: Entry to China may not be accepted if you only have an old passport or it is significantly damaged or mutilated. It's advisable to have a new passport issued before making any international travel plans.

Also include a copy of a previous visa for China in the passport, if applicable.

Photo requirements for Australian citizens

The following are general tips to ensure the photos are suitable for identification and comply with Chinese standards:

• Size: The photos should be 45mm x 35mm long (approximately 1.77 inches x 1.38 inches).

• Color: The photos must be in color, showing natural skin tones.

• Background: The background should be plain and light-colored, typically white or off-white. No patterns or designs should be visible.

• Expression: The applicant should have a neutral facial expression, mouth closed, and eyes open. Avoid smiling, frowning, or showing teeth.

• Head position: The head should directly face the camera, with the entire face and both ears visible. Eyes should be open and visible, without reflections or red-eye effects.

• Glasses: If the applicant wears glasses, the frames should not cover the eyes, and there should be no glare on the lenses.

• Headgear: Headgear, such as hats or scarves, should not be worn unless for religious or medical reasons. Even in such cases, the face must be visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead.

• Shadows: The photo should have no shadows on the face or in the background.

• Printing quality: The photos must be of high resolution.

Remember that adhering to these requirements is essential to avoid delays or issues with your passport or visa application.

Information related to the inviting company

The following is an essential checklist of the information that should be commonly included in an invitation letter for a China Business Visa:

• Host company information: The invitation letter should include details about the inviting company or organization in China. This includes their name, address, contact information, and official seal or stamp.

• Applicant information: Your personal details as the applicant should be clearly stated in the letter. This includes your full name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, and job title/position.

• Purpose of visit: The letter should specify the purpose of your visit to China for business-related activities. This can include attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or other business engagements.

• Dates of visit: The invitation letter should clearly state the intended duration of your visit to China, including the expected entry and exit dates.

• Relationship with the inviting company: The letter should explain the nature of the relationship between you (the applicant) and the inviting company in China. This can describe the business partnership, collaboration, or other relevant details.

• Financial support: If the inviting company provides financial support or covers your expenses during your stay in China, this should be mentioned in the invitation letter.

Contact information: The contact details of the inviting company's representative, who can be reached for any verification or additional information, should be provided.

Please note that the specific content and format of the invitation letter may vary depending on the circumstances and the requirements of the Chinese embassy or consulate where you are applying for the visa. It's essential to ensure that the letter contains all necessary details and is issued by a reputable and legitimate Chinese company or organization.

How to apply for a China Business Visa in Australia

Getting the China Visa for business with us is super easy and straightforward. Complete your application online or with our app in just a few minutes by following these steps:

Step 1: Complete our user-friendly online visa application form with your business travel details, or download the iVisa app for an even smoother experience!

Step 2: Pay the visa fees and upload the necessary documents as per the provided guidelines.

Step 3: Attend the embassy in person, await their response, receive your visa, and prepare for your journey!

Our team will review all your information and supporting documents to ensure accuracy. Should any issues arise, we will contact you via email before proceeding with your application.

China Business Visa: Fees and process time for Australian citizens

The visa fees and processing times are divided into two parts:

• iVisa processing: Our processing fee is USD $218.99 and can take up to 30 days. During this time, we will review your details for government-compliance and check for the soonest appointment dates on your behalf.

• Government processing: The government costs are US$70 at the time of writing, but things may change over time. Find the updated visa fees by starting the application online. The government processing time can take five days or longer, so we recommend applying well in advance of your departure date.

Visiting Hong Kong with a China Business Visa as an Australian citizen

If you are an Australian citizen planning to visit Hong Kong for business purposes, you generally do not need a China Business Visa (M Visa). Hong Kong and mainland China have separate immigration systems, and Hong Kong maintains its own visa policies.

Australian citizens can visit Hong Kong visa-free for short stays. You typically do not need a visa for tourism or business purposes if your stay is for a limited duration (usually up to 90 days).

While in Hong Kong, you can engage in various business activities, such as attending business meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities.

More information about the China Business Visa

If you have questions about our services, travel documents, or other Chinese Visa options, please chat with our customer service team, or email [email protected]. We’re happy to help!