Please note that Covid-19 restrictions for travelers from China will be lifted. Also, there is no need for any covid document anymore for any passenger.
Citizens of China are not required to have a visa if they hold a valid Irish visa that is endorsed with BIVS. Chinese citizens can only use their Irish visa to enter the country if they enter through the common travel area in Ireland.
For Chinese persons who do not hold an Irish visa, you will need to obtain a visa for travel to the United Kingdom. The most common visa is the standard visitor visa, which allows you to visit the United Kingdom. Before you begin the application, be sure that you have all of the documents required to make the application process a little smoother.
You can learn more about the application process below, in addition to what the standard visitor visa allows you to do while you are in the United Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do I need for the application?
Please use this checklist for the standard visitor visa application for the United Kingdom. Please note that each type of visitor may have different requirements.
- Old travel documentation
- Proof of residence
- Proof of employment
- Proof of educational enrollment
- Business registration documents
- Proof of intended business activities
What is the max stay for visits to the UK that is enforced for this visa?
Currently, the United Kingdom allows a max stay of 180 days in Total for the standard visitor visa for citizens of China.
When Will My Standard Visitor Visa Expire?
For Chinese citizens, your visa will expire in 180 days after issued.
How Long Does Processing Take for the application?
The speed at which your visa application is processed will depend on the processing speed you choose:
- Standard: 30 days
- Rush: 30 days
- Super Rush: 30 days
How Much Does the Standard Visitor Visa Cost?
The cost of your visa will depend on the processing speed of your application:
- Standard: USD $278.99
- Rush: USD $279.99
- Super Rush: USD $283.99
Is Multiple Entry Allowed with the United Kingdom Standard Visitor Visa?
The current regulations that are enforced by the UK Immigration Department allow Multiple Entry for the standard visitor visa for Chinese citizens.
Can I use my Irish visa if I am a Chinese citizen who is traveling to the United Kingdom?
Your Irish visa can only be used if you enter the United Kingdom through the common travel area in Ireland. If you use any other point of entry, you will need to have a United Kingdom visa. Additionally, your Irish visa must be endorsed by BIVS in order to be considered as a valid travel document. You will also need to have your passport while you are visiting the United Kingdom.
Do people under 18 who are traveling alone need to have a visa ?
Yes. Travelers who are under the age of 18 will need a visa if they're traveling alone. You will need to submit additional documents as well with their visa application to confirm where they're going, who they're staying with, and when they will leave.
