Entry rules to China for Ukrainians
How can Ukrainians get a tourist visa to China?
A tourist visa to China, known as an L-type visa, is intended for people visiting China for the purpose of a vacation or tourist trip, or to spend time with family living in China.
With this visa, you cannot work, study, or conduct any business activities, and you can only stay in the country for a limited time.
To get it, you need to fill out an online form. Then make an appointment to personally submit the form and supporting documents to the nearest Chinese embassy/consulate.
How long can you stay in China as a tourist?
With a tourist visa, you can stay in China for up to 30 days. This is a single entry visa, but you can also get a double entry visa valid for 6 months. Or a multiple entry visa valid for 1 year.
💡 Visit Ukraine's advice for Ukrainians traveling abroad
Planning a trip can be a daunting task. Where to start? What is the first step to getting a visa? It's easy to get confused at first - especially if you've never done anything like this before.
That's why we recommend using Visit World's travel guide - a detailed step-by-step guide to organizing a trip, which contains basic tips on visa obtaining, border crossing, and much more. For more details, follow the link.
Requirements for a tourist visa to China
Before applying for a tourist visa to China, you will need to collect all the necessary documents. Here is what you will need:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months left to expire with at least two blank pages
- A photocopy of the biography page in your passport
- Round-trip airline tickets and hotel reservation confirmation or invitation from a company, such as a travel agency
- A completed COVA visa application form.
You may also need to provide proof of residence and a signed form confirming that you reside in Ukraine (or another country). In addition, a health declaration confirming that you can enter the country for health reasons and have health insurance.
Important: All documents submitted to the Chinese consulate must be translated into English or Chinese or issued in these languages.
Visit Ukraine will help you with apostille and professional translation of documents in accordance with the requirements of the Chinese consulate — quickly and without unnecessary complications.
👉 You can order the service here
⚠️ When applying for a Chinese visa, special attention is now paid to the accuracy of documents and the consistency of all information.
In practice, even minor discrepancies between the application form, reservations, and itinerary can lead to delays or refusals. There has been an increase in the number of cases where applicants are asked to provide additional explanations regarding the purpose of their trip and plans for their stay.
👉 Legal advice allows you to prepare your documents correctly and reduce the risk of having to reapply.
What is the process of applying for a tourist visa to China?
1. Gather all your documents and check the validity of your passport.
2. Go to the China Online Visa Application (COVA) website to fill out all the necessary forms.
3. Contact the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission to make an appointment.
4. Attend the appointment with all completed applications and required documents.
5. If your application is successful, pay the fee when you go to collect your visa.
How to fill out a visa application form for China?
To obtain a visa for China, you must fill out an online application form via the official website of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at this link.
- Go to the official website and select your country of application
- Create a new application form (New Application Form)
- Fill in your personal information (full name, date of birth, passport details)
- Indicate the purpose of your trip, planned dates of entry and departure, and your place of stay in China
- Add information about your employment, education, and, if necessary, other details
- Upload a color photo in accordance with the system’s requirements
- Review all information and confirm the submission of the application
- Download and print the completed form and the Confirmation Page
👉 After that, you need to schedule an appointment to submit your documents (in some cases via the online system) and visit the Chinese visa center or consulate in the country of application.
You can find more details about the application process and requirements on the official website of Chinese visa centers.
To avoid mistakes when filling out the application and reduce the risk of visa denial, we recommend using professional legal assistance — Visit Ukraine specialists will help you prepare your documents correctly and guide you through every stage of the application process.
How long does it take to get a tourist visa to China?
The average processing time for a Chinese visa is 4-7 business days.
What is the cost of obtaining a tourist visa to China for Ukrainian citizens?
A tourist visa to China for Ukrainian citizens costs from 30 to 90 USD. The cost differs depending on the type of tourist visa (single / multiple entry...).
What documents are required to enter China?
- Passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in China
- Completed COVA visa application form (to obtain a visa)
- L visa
- Round-trip flight reservations
- Digital arrival card (details below)
- Proof of accommodation in China
- Invitation letter
- Proof of sufficient funds for travel
⚠️ When traveling to China, border and immigration services often pay attention to the tourist's readiness to stay in the country, including medical care.
In practice, insurance is considered additional confirmation of the seriousness of intentions and responsible preparation for the trip. If you seek treatment at medical facilities, treatment for foreigners is paid, and without an insurance policy, the costs are covered independently.
👉 We strongly recommend taking out medical insurance that covers the entire period of your stay in China, taking into account possible unforeseen expenses.
Digital Arrival Card
Starting in November 2025, all foreign travelers entering China must fill out a digital arrival card before their trip or after arrival.
Where to fill it out:
- the official website of the National Immigration Administration (NIA)
- the mobile version of the NIA Web App
- the NIA 12367 app
- mini-programs in WeChat and Alipay
If you forgot to fill out the form before arrival, you can do so on site via a QR code or a self-service kiosk at the airport.
What you need: passport details, flight information, purpose of entry, address of residence in China. After submission, a QR code is generated, which must be shown at passport control.
Who is exempt: permanent residents of China, Hong Kong/Macau residents with a Mainland Travel Permit, group tourists, transit passengers, cruise passengers on the same ship, fast-track users, international crews.
Tip: fill out the form in advance — this speeds up entry. Also, take care of medical insurance and ticket reservations, which can be arranged on Visit Ukraine.
Worried about the possible nuances of traveling to China, such as document requirements or other legal issues? Visit Ukraine provides qualified legal assistance to remove all doubts and ensure comfort during your trip. You can choose a 30- or 60-minute consultation, where our experts will give you clear recommendations on visa requirements, documents, and specifics of Chinese law.
If you need full legal support, we will support you at every stage of preparation: from consultations to resolving all necessary legal issues. Travel with confidence by entrusting us with your legal needs!
- Experience the awe-inspiring magnitude of human achievement,
- Witness stunning landscapes,
- Explore historical watchtowers.
- Immerse yourself in imperial history,
- Explore exquisite courtyards and halls,
- Marvel at the intricate details of ancient Chinese craftsmanship.
- Enjoy stunning landscapes,
- Take a thrilling glass-bottom bridge walk,
- Experience the unique rock formations in this UNESCO-listed park.
- Experience the tranquility of the river,
- Witness the beauty that has inspired countless Chinese paintings,
- Explore charming riverside communities.
- Enjoy a juxtaposition of old and new,
- Take in the spectacular cityscape during the day and night,
- Explore the vibrant cultural scene of this bustling waterfront.
- in Shanghai 6-439-0630,
- in Guangzhou: 8-667-7422.
How to travel abroad with a child?
According to the current legislation of Ukraine, the following rules apply to children traveling abroad during martial law:
- Children under 16 can travel with one parent without the consent of the other.
- The child may also travel with a grandparent, adult brother or sister, stepmother, stepfather or other persons with the notarized permission of one of the parents.
- Children over 16 years of age have the right to leave independently in accordance with Article 313 of the Civil Code of Ukraine.
- The main routes of departure are through the airports of neighboring countries (Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Moldova).
Documents for a child to enter China
To travel to China with a child, you will need:
- The child's passport (biometric or old-style).
- A visa is required for all citizens of Ukraine, including children.
- The child's birth certificate (if traveling without his/her own passport).
- Notarized permission of one of the parents if the child is traveling without him/her or with other accompanying persons.
- Health insurance with coverage of at least 30,000 euros.
- Certificate of vaccination (in some cases, proof of vaccination may be required).
- In case of a long stay - study documents or a residence permit.
List of necessary things for traveling with a child
Documents:
- Foreign passport and copies of all documents.
- Exit permit (if traveling with relatives or accompanying persons).
For the child's comfort:
- Clothes appropriate for the season (Beijing can be cold in winter and hot in summer).
- Sunscreen, hat (in summer).
- Personal hygiene products, napkins, antiseptic.
- Water and snacks for the road.
- Favorite toys, books, tablet or other entertainment.
Legal nuances of traveling with a child abroad
📌 Obtaining permission for the child to travel:
- If the child is traveling with relatives or other accompanying persons, a notarized permission from one of the parents is required.
📌 Stay in China:
- Citizens of Ukraine must apply for a visa to enter China, even for a short stay.
- The visa-free regime applies only to transit through Chinese airports for up to 72-144 hours.
- For stays of more than 30 days, a residence permit is required (grounds: study, parental work, family reunification).
👉 Not sure what documents you need?
Visit Ukraine 's lawyers will help you prepare all the necessary documents to avoid problems at the border.
Useful contacts in China
📍 Embassy of Ukraine in China (Beijing)
- Address: No. 11 Sanlitun Dongwujie, Chaoyang District, Beijing
- Phone: +86 10 6532 6359
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://china.mfa.gov.ua
📍 Consulate General of Ukraine in Shanghai
- Address: No. 9, Donghu Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai
- Phone: +86 21 6279 8126
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://shanghai.mfa.gov.ua
Emergency numbers in China
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
Where to get reliable insurance?
👉 Buy an insurance policy for traveling abroad on Visit Ukraine - it's fast, convenient and official.
The policy covers the costs of:
✔ Medical care and consultations with doctors
✔ Diagnostics and treatment
✔ Hospitalization and emergency medical evacuation
📌 Do not risk your child's health and your own budget - take out insurance in advance!
Due to Ukraine's closed airspace, traveling to China requires a carefully planned itinerary. The most convenient way is to travel by land to neighboring European countries, where direct flights to China are available.
1. 🚌 🚆 Traveling by land to neighboring European countries
Poland:
- Bus: There are regular buses to Poland, including the cities of Warsaw, Krakow, and Rzeszow, from major Ukrainian cities such as Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa. The ticket price starts from 1200 UAH and the travel time is 9-16 hours.
- By train: There are several train routes from Ukraine to Poland. In particular, you can get from Kyiv to Przemysl or Warsaw. Trains to Poland are fast and convenient, with ticket prices starting at 1300 UAH.
Hungary:
- Bus: There are also bus routes to Budapest and other Hungarian cities from Ukrainian cities. The trip takes about 15-20 hours and the ticket price starts at 1500 UAH.
- Train: Direct trains from Kyiv to Budapest are a convenient option for traveling. The travel time is about 18 hours.
Romania:
- Bus: Bus routes to Bucharest or Suceava take approximately 11-14 hours.
- Train: A direct train from Kyiv to Bucharest or Suceava is also a convenient option. The travel time is about 18-22 hours.
Moldova:
- Bus: Bus routes to Chisinau take approximately 10-14 hours.
- Train: There is a direct train from Kyiv to Chisinau. The ticket price starts from 2000 hryvnias and the travel time is 17-20 hours.
Slovakia:
- Bus: Bus routes to Bratislava take approximately 12-16 hours.
- Train: Direct train from Mukachevo to Kosice. The ticket price starts from 400 UAH and the travel time is 4-5 hours.
💡 Please note!
You can buy tickets (train/bus/plane) from and to Ukraine, as well as between cities around the world, through the convenient Visit Ukraine booking system. The site has a bonus system that allows you to travel much cheaper.
2. ✈️ Flights from Europe to China
After arriving in one of the neighboring European countries, you can continue your journey to China.
Poland:
- Flights to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou are available from Warsaw. The ticket price starts from 25,000 hryvnias, and the travel time is from 10 to 17 hours.
- Krakow and Rzeszow: There is also an option to fly from these airports. The cost is from 23,000 hryvnias, and the travel time is from 15 to 20 hours.
Hungary:
- Budapest: direct flights to China from Budapest are a convenient option. The ticket price starts from 20,000 hryvnia and the travel time is about 10-11 hours.
Romania:
- Bucharest: Flights to Beijing, Chengdu, and other cities in China are available, usually with stopovers in Europe. The cost is from 24,000 hryvnias, and the travel time is from 13 hours.
Moldova:
- Chisinau: flights with stopovers to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou. The ticket price starts from 30,000 hryvnias, travel time - from 12 to 20 hours.
Slovakia:
- Bratislava: flights with stopovers to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and other cities in China. The ticket price starts from UAH 27,000, with travel time from 18 to 28 hours.
China's transit rules for Ukrainian citizens
From 2024 to 2025, China has significantly updated its visa-free transit rules. Currently, Ukrainians can take advantage of two transit regimes without applying for a visa:
- 24-hour transit without leaving the airport
- 240-hour (10-day) transit with exit to the city
24-hour visa-free transit: expanded opportunities
From November 5, 2025, China has extended the 24-hour visa-free transit to 10 additional international airports. Now, Ukrainian citizens can make short transits without going through immigration at the following airports: Tianjin, Dalian, Nanjing, Fuzhou, Qingdao, Wuhan, Nanning, Haikou, Chongqing, Kunming.
Conditions:
- transit only within the terminal;
- mandatory ticket to a third country;
- leaving the city is prohibited (this requires a 144/240-hour regime).
240-hour visa-free transit for Ukrainians
Ukrainian travelers can stay in China for up to 240 hours (10 days) without a visa, provided they are transiting to a third country.
Visa-free transit is possible through 65 international airports, seaports, and railway stations in 24 provinces of China, including major airports and key ports in Guangdong Province, among which are:
- Guangzhou Pazhou Ferry Terminal
- Hengqin Port
- Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge Port
- Zhongshan Passenger Port
- West Kowloon Station Port (Guangzhou–Shenzhen–Hong Kong high-speed railway)
These checkpoints allow Ukrainians to enter the region and move freely within a designated area for a maximum of 240 hours.
Basic conditions for visa-free transit (240 hours)
1. Stay in China — up to 240 hours (10 days)
2. Entry is possible through 65 international airports, seaports, and railway stations
3. The route must be country A → China → country B (no return to the country of departure)
The route must include:
- arrival from one country;
- stay in China;
- departure to a third country.
What documents do Ukrainians need for transit in China
- Valid foreign passport (at least 3 months after departure from China)
- Air ticket to a third country with a confirmed reservation
- Visa to the country of final destination (if required)
Important
1. If your route does not include a departure to a third country, you must apply for a regular Chinese visa.
2. If you plan to stay for more than 240 hours, you will need a visa.
3. For a 24-hour transit, it is prohibited to leave the airport.
How Ukrainians can obtain a visa-free transit permit
240 hours: Upon arrival, go to the Temporary Entry Permit Application counter before passing through passport control.
24 hours: No permit is required — you only need to remain in the transit area.
China customs regulations
The following items may be brought into China by plane:
• Cigarettes — 400
• Household electrical appliances and other household items, provided they are exported
• Jewelry for personal use
• 1.5 liters of any alcoholic beverages
• Import of foreign currency is unlimited (but the amount of foreign currency imported must be declared, equivalent to USD 5,000)
It is prohibited to export from China:
• Any valuable items or antiques without a receipt confirming the purchase
• Chinese currency
Frequantly ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does a visa to China cost for Ukrainians?
The cost of a tourist visa to China for Ukrainian citizens ranges from 30 to 90 USD.