Business Visa (M Visa)

Duration: 30-90 days
Cost: $140 USD
Processing: 4-5 business days

The M Visa is issued to those traveling to China for commercial or trade activities, including attending trade fairs, signing contracts, business meetings, and market research. It does not permit employment in China. For longer business stays or employment, a Z Visa (work visa) is required instead.

Requirements

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and blank visa pages
  • Completed visa application form (Form V.2013) with recent passport-style photo
  • Invitation letter from a Chinese business partner or company
  • Letter from your employer stating purpose and duration of trip
  • Business registration documents of the inviting Chinese company
  • Proof of previous business dealings with China (if applicable)

Important Notes

The invitation letter must include details of the applicant, the inviting company, and the purpose of the visit. Multiple-entry M Visas are available for frequent business travelers.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Determine the correct visa type — Business Visa (M Visa) — based on the purpose of your trip.

2

Gather all required documents including passport, photos, and supporting materials listed on the consulate website.

3

Complete the online visa application form (Form V.2013) at the Chinese embassy or consulate website.

4

Schedule an appointment at your nearest Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa application centre.

5

Submit your application in person with all documents and pay the visa fee.

6

Wait for processing, which typically takes 4-5 business days. Expedited options may be available for an additional fee.

7

Collect your passport with the issued visa and verify that the entry dates, duration, and number of entries are correct before travelling.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Start the application process at least three weeks before your planned departure to allow for delays.
  • Make photocopies of all submitted documents for your own records.
  • Ensure your passport photo meets the exact specifications — 48mm x 33mm, white background, taken within the last six months.
  • The invitation letter from your Chinese business partner must include their company stamp (chop).
  • Include your company's business registration and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
  • Frequent business travellers should apply for a multiple-entry visa to save time and fees.
  • An M Visa does not allow employment — you will need a Z Visa (work visa) for that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for China?
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter China. The type of visa depends on the purpose of your visit — tourism, business, study, or transit. However, China also offers visa-free transit programmes for citizens of 54 countries, which can cover short visits of up to 144 hours. Check your eligibility for visa-free transit before applying.
How long does it take to get a Business Visa (M Visa)?
Standard processing for a Business Visa (M Visa) takes 4-5 business days. Expedited processing is usually available for an additional fee and can reduce the wait to 2-3 business days. During peak travel seasons, processing times may be longer, so apply well in advance.
How much does a Business Visa (M Visa) cost?
The standard fee for a Business Visa (M Visa) is $140 for US citizens. Fees vary by nationality and may differ in your country. Additional charges apply for expedited processing, multiple-entry visas, and visa application centre service fees.
How long can I stay in China with a Business Visa (M Visa)?
A Business Visa (M Visa) allows a stay of 30-90 days. The exact duration granted depends on your nationality and the specifics of your application. Multiple-entry visas may allow repeated visits within the validity period.
What documents do I need for a Business Visa (M Visa)?
Key requirements include: Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and blank visa pages; Completed visa application form (Form V.2013) with recent passport-style photo; Invitation letter from a Chinese business partner or company. There are 6 requirements in total — check the full list on the Chinese embassy website for your country.
Can I extend my Business Visa (M Visa)?
It is possible to extend certain visa types at a Public Security Bureau (PSB) entry-exit office within China. Apply before your current visa expires and bring your passport, registration form, and a completed extension application. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the authorities.
What are common mistakes when applying for a Business Visa (M Visa)?
Common mistakes include submitting an incomplete application, using photos that do not meet specifications, not having enough blank passport pages, and applying too close to the travel date. Double-check every document before submitting and apply at least three weeks in advance.

Other Visa Types

Tourist Visa (L Visa)

30-90 days$140

Transit Visa (G Visa)

Up to 7 days$140

144-Hour Visa-Free Transit

144 hours (6 days)Free

Student Visa (X Visa)

Up to 5 years (X1) / Up to 180 days (X2)$140