Chinese Crew (C) Visa Application Requirements


Chinese Crew (C ) visa is required for crew members utilizing means of international transportation including: aircraft, trains, ships, and motor vehicle drivers engaged in cross-border transport activities. C visa usually allow multiple entries up to 5 years for US passport holders only. The requirements for a Crew (C) visa are detailed below.


Do not staple any of the documents together. The Consulate will reject all stapled applications. Paperclips may be used.


1: Original Passport Plus a Photocopy of the Name Page

Certain Non-US passport holders cannot apply for a visa through third parties or are blocked entry to China: we recommend to send an email inquiry or wait for Consulate announcements.


2: Your Visa Application Form

Proceed to cova.mfa.gov.cn

Complete the application online, print it out, and sign it. Do not fill out this application by hand. Do not use digital signatures. All fields must be completed. If a section does not apply to you, type in “None” or “N/A.” Once the form is completed, do not click on continue. Click on Save and provide us with the application number and passport number.

Your application form must be reviewed by us before you submit online. You will not be able to make changes after submitting.


3: One Recent Passport Photo

Please see: Chinese Visa Photo requirements


4: Address Verification


5: Formal Letter from US Employer

The letter must be on the cruise company letterhead and addressed to the Chinese Consulate.


6: Photocopy of Employee ID

A clear photocopy of employee ID.


7: Detailed Cruise Itinerary (Ocean Ship Crew Only)

A detailed day by day itinerary on cruise company letterhead with all ports of call in China circled.


8: Where You Stay From


9: Payment

Basic Visa Package or Express Visa Package (Suspended)

You have the option to include your own prepaid label with your application or purchase from our website. Please see Shipping.


10: Additional Requirements For Each Consulate

Main requirements for Chinese visa are usually the same across the Chinese Consulates, however, there are some certain requirements for each Chinese Consulate. Please visit Additional Requirements Based on Jurisdiction to see if any of the listed rules apply to you.


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