Most international visitors need a visa for China unless they hold a passport from a country covered by China's unilateral visa-free arrangements (much of Europe plus Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea — stays of up to 30 days) or qualify for 240-hour visa-free transit. Business travellers normally apply for an M (business) visa, which requires an invitation letter from the organiser or a Chinese partner; US passport holders pay a flat reciprocity fee of about USD 185, while most other nationalities pay roughly USD 60–130 depending on entries. Apply 3–6 weeks before departure and confirm current rules on the National Immigration Administration site before booking flights.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
US passport holders pay a flat reciprocity fee of about USD 185 regardless of entries; other nationalities typically pay USD 60–130 depending on entry type. An invitation letter from the organiser or a Chinese partner is normally required. Approximate fee band for non-US nationalities; US passport holders pay the same flat reciprocity fee as other categories. Business activity on an L visa is not
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