Vietnamese passport · China · checked 2026-10-11

Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for China?

The short answerYes. Vietnamese citizens need a visa from an embassy or visa centre before travelling to China. Go to the official site.

The official link goes to consular.mfa.gov.cn. NUM isn’t a government agency or a visa service. Rules change, so confirm on the official site before you pay or travel.

At a glance

China entry rules for Vietnamese citizens.

VerdictVisa needed before you fly
DocumentChinese visa (L tourist / M business)
FeeVaries by nationality (reduced visa fees extended to 31 Dec 2026)
StayAs granted on the visa
ValidityAs issued
When to applyAbout 1 month; online form on COVA, then submit at a Chinese Visa Application Service Center or consulate (fingerprints taken)
CheckedVerified on an official page · 2026-10-11

The rest of the trip for a Vietnamese passport, from the arrival form to customs and travelling with children: China entry requirements.

Worth knowing

The details for a Vietnamese passport.

Since 20 Aug 2026 eligible for 240-hour visa-free transit (onward ticket to a third country/region, 65 ports) and 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan only. A normal mainland visit still needs a visa.

Your passport

How long it must be valid.

At least 6 months beyond arrival. For 240-hour visa-free transit, at least 3 months.

What changed

Recent changes in China.

  • 2025-06-01 — Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay added to 30-day visa-free entry.
  • 2025-06-09 — Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain added to 30-day visa-free entry.
  • 2025-06-12 — Indonesia added to 240-hour visa-free transit (55 countries).
Questions

The short answers.

Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for China?

Yes. Vietnamese citizens need a visa from an embassy or visa centre before travelling to China.

How much does it cost for Vietnamese citizens?

Varies by nationality (reduced visa fees extended to 31 Dec 2026). Fees change, so confirm on the official site before you pay.

How long can Vietnamese citizens stay in China?

As granted on the visa. Longer stays need a different visa.

When should Vietnamese citizens apply?

About 1 month; online form on COVA, then submit at a Chinese Visa Application Service Center or consulate (fingerprints taken).

Where do Vietnamese citizens apply?

On the official site, consular.mfa.gov.cn. NUM links it and never charges for the link.

Does NUM issue China visas?

No. Only the government issues them. NUM explains the rule for your passport, links the official site, and can file the form for you where its desk covers it.

Sources

Where this comes from.