China Visa for French Citizens: Complete 2026 Guide
Complete guide to China visa for French citizens: 30-day visa-free entry, tourist visa application, fees, processing times, and expert tips for French travelers visiting Shanghai.
China Visa for French Citizens: Your Complete Guide
If you’re a French citizen planning a trip to Shanghai, understanding China visa for French citizens requirements is essential. The great news? French passport holders enjoy a 30-day visa-free entry policy, making travel to China easier than ever. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about French passport China visa options, including the visa-free policy, tourist visa applications, fees, processing times, and practical tips to ensure a smooth journey.
📅 Last Updated: January 2026 (per Chinese Embassy and CVASC official announcements)
| Quick Reference | Details |
|---|---|
| 30-Day Visa-Free | Available until Dec 31, 2026 ✅ |
| Tourist Visa Fee | USD $22 (single), USD $33 (double) |
| Processing Time | 6 working days (regular) |
| Application Centers | Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Strasbourg |
| Fingerprint Collection | Not required (as of 2023) |
Two Options for French Citizens Traveling to China
Option 1: 30-Day Visa-Free Entry (Recommended)
French citizens can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit purposes. This policy, effective since November 30, 2024, has been extended through December 31, 2026, making it the easiest option for most travelers.
Eligibility Requirements:
- ✅ Valid ordinary passport (temporary, emergency, and travel documents are not eligible)
- ✅ No pre-notification to embassies needed
- ✅ Multiple entries allowed
- ✅ Applies to tourism, business, family visits, and transit
💡 Pro Tip: The 30-day visa-free policy is perfect for most trips to Shanghai. You can simply arrive with your passport and proceed directly to immigration—no visa application needed!
Option 2: Tourist Visa (L-Visa)
If you need to stay longer than 30 days or want a visa for multiple trips, you can apply for a tourist visa. French citizens can obtain single-entry or double-entry tourist visas.
30-Day Visa-Free Entry: Complete Guide
How It Works
The 30-day visa-free entry policy allows French citizens to enter China without applying for a visa beforehand. Simply arrive at any eligible entry port with your valid passport.
Key Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 30 days per entry |
| Effective Date | November 30, 2024 |
| Valid Until | December 31, 2026 |
| Entry Ports | All major airports and ports |
| Purpose | Tourism, business, family visits, transit |
| Multiple Entries | Allowed |
Entry Process
- Complete Electronic Arrival Card: Fill out the arrival card online before departure via s.nia.gov.cn, 12367 App, or WeChat/Alipay mini programs
- Arrive at Entry Port: Present your passport at the foreigner immigration counter
- Show Supporting Documents: Have your return flight ticket and hotel reservation ready (immigration may request them)
- Receive Entry Stamp: Get your entry permit stamped in your passport
Important Notes
- Passport Requirements: Must be a valid ordinary passport. Temporary, emergency, and travel documents are not eligible
- Accommodation Registration: Hotels handle registration automatically. If staying at private accommodation (Airbnb), register at the nearest police station (派出所) within 24 hours
- Extension: If you need to stay longer than 30 days, apply for a temporary stay permit before your initial period expires
⚠️ Important: Diplomatic or official/service passport holders must still apply for a visa through the embassy or consulate—the visa-free policy only applies to ordinary passports.
Tourist Visa Application Process
If you need a visa for stays longer than 30 days or prefer the security of having a visa, follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete Online Application
All visa applications must be completed online through the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website before visiting the application center.
Application Portal: www.visaforchina.cn
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
| Document | Required? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passport | ✅ Yes | Valid for 6+ months beyond intended stay, 2+ blank visa pages |
| Visa Application Form | ✅ Yes | Completed online application form from www.visaforchina.cn |
| Passport Photo | ✅ Yes | Recent color passport photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) with white background, taken within 6 months |
| Round-trip Flight Reservation | ✅ Yes | Confirmed round-trip flight booking |
| Hotel Reservation | ✅ Yes | Proof of accommodation in China (hotel booking confirmation) |
| Travel Itinerary | ⚠️ Optional | Detailed travel itinerary showing planned activities and destinations |
| Financial Proof | ⚠️ Optional | Proof of sufficient funds to cover stay in China |
Step 3: Submit Application In-Person
After completing your online application, visit your nearest CVASC center:
| City | Location |
|---|---|
| Paris | Main CVASC center |
| Lyon | CVASC Lyon branch |
| Marseille | CVASC Marseille branch |
| Strasbourg | CVASC Strasbourg branch |
Important Notes:
- No appointment required - walk-in services are available
- Submit applications Monday-Thursday between 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Bring all original documents plus copies
Step 4: Pay Visa Fee
Visa fees can be paid at the CVASC center when submitting your application.
Step 5: Collect Your Visa
After processing (typically 6 working days), return to the CVASC center to collect your passport with visa. Verify all information on the visa is correct before leaving.
Visa Fees and Processing Times
Tourist Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | USD $22 | 3 months |
| Double Entry | USD $33 | 6 months |
💡 Pro Tip: For most travelers, the 30-day visa-free entry eliminates the need for a visa application entirely. Only apply for a tourist visa if you need to stay longer than 30 days or want multiple entries over a longer period.
Processing Times
| Service Type | Processing Time | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Regular | 6 working days | None |
| Express | Not currently available | N/A |
| Rush | Not currently available | N/A |
⚠️ Note: Express and rush services are not currently available for French citizens. Plan to apply at least three months before travel to ensure visa validity.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit for French Citizens
French citizens are also eligible for 240-hour visa-free transit when transiting through Shanghai to a third country.
Eligibility Requirements
- ✅ Valid passport (3+ months validity)
- ✅ Confirmed ticket to a third country/region
- ✅ Onward flight departs within 240 hours of arrival
- ✅ Enter through eligible Shanghai ports
Entry Ports
| Port Type | Locations |
|---|---|
| Airports | Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) |
| Cruise Terminals | Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal, Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal |
| Railway | Shanghai Railway Station |
Geographic Scope
The 240-hour transit visa-free policy covers 24 provinces and municipalities, including:
- Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Liaoning, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Shandong
- Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Guangdong, Chongqing, Anhui, Hainan, Guizhou, Shaanxi
- Select cities in Heilongjiang, Shanxi, Jiangxi, Guangxi, Sichuan, and Yunnan
Application Process
- Fill out arrival card online (recommended): Complete via s.nia.gov.cn, 12367 App, or WeChat/Alipay mini programs
- Apply at airport: Complete the application at the Joint Inspection office on 2F arrival hall
- Present documents: Passport, third-country ticket, and arrival card
- Get stamp: Receive your temporary entry permit
💡 Pro Tip: Complete your electronic arrival card online before departure to speed up immigration processing. Have your hotel reservation and return flight ticket ready as immigration may request them.
Shanghai Entry Tips for French Citizens
At Shanghai Airports
Both Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA) airports accept visa-free entry for French citizens:
- For 30-day visa-free entry: Proceed directly to foreigner immigration counter with passport and arrival card
- For 240-hour transit visa-free: Apply at the Joint Inspection office on 2F arrival hall with third-country ticket
Accommodation Registration
- Hotels: Hotels handle registration automatically—no action needed from you
- Private accommodation (Airbnb): Register at the nearest police station (派出所) within 24 hours of arrival
- Required documents: Passport, arrival card, and accommodation address
During Your Stay
- Keep your passport and arrival card with you at all times
- Book hotels that accept foreigners (international chains are safest)
- If staying longer than 30 days, apply for a temporary stay permit before your initial period expires
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Wrong Passport Type
Problem: The visa-free policy only applies to ordinary passports. Temporary, emergency, and travel documents are not eligible.
Solution: Ensure you’re traveling with a valid ordinary passport.
2. Insufficient Passport Validity
Problem: Passport validity less than 6 months or insufficient blank pages (less than 2 pages) for visa applications.
Solution: Renew your passport if needed before applying for a visa.
3. Missing Required Documents
Problem: Incomplete visa applications are a primary cause of rejection.
Solution: Use this checklist:
- Passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)
- Completed online application form
- Passport photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, white background)
- Round-trip flight reservation
- Hotel reservation confirmation
4. Unclear Travel Purpose
Problem: Unclear travel purpose or itinerary may cause delays or rejection.
Solution: Provide clear, detailed travel plans and ensure your stated purpose matches your documents.
5. Previous Visa Violations
Problem: Previous visa violations or overstays in China may result in rejection.
Solution: Ensure you’ve complied with all previous visa conditions and entry requirements.
Practical Tips for French Citizens
Before Traveling
-
Use visa-free entry when possible: The 30-day visa-free policy eliminates the need for most visa applications—perfect for trips up to 30 days
-
Complete arrival card online: Fill out your electronic arrival card before departure via s.nia.gov.cn, 12367 App, or WeChat/Alipay mini programs to speed up immigration
-
Book foreigner-friendly hotels: International hotel chains are safest and handle accommodation registration automatically
-
Keep copies of documents: Make copies of your passport, flight tickets, and hotel reservations—keep digital copies on your phone
For Visa Applications
-
Apply early: Submit visa applications at least three months before travel to ensure visa validity
-
Submit during business hours: CVASC centers accept applications Monday-Thursday between 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
-
Bring all originals: Bring original documents plus copies when submitting your application
During Your Stay
-
Register accommodation: If staying at Airbnb or private accommodation, register at the nearest police station within 24 hours
-
Keep documents handy: Always carry your passport and arrival card with you
-
Plan extensions early: If you need to stay longer than 30 days, apply for a temporary stay permit before your initial period expires
Special Notes for French Citizens
No Fingerprint Collection Required
As of 2023, French citizens are exempted from fingerprint collection (except in special cases), making the entry process faster and more convenient.
Policy Extensions
The unilateral visa-free policy was originally 15 days starting December 1, 2023, and was extended to 30 days effective November 30, 2024. The policy has been further extended through December 31, 2026.
Multiple Entries
The 30-day visa-free policy allows multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter China multiple times, with each entry allowing up to 30 days stay.
Visa-Free vs. Tourist Visa
| Feature | 30-Day Visa-Free | Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 30 days per entry | Up to 90 days per entry |
| Application | Not required | Required |
| Fee | Free | USD $22-$33 |
| Processing Time | Instant | 6 working days |
| Multiple Entries | Allowed | Depends on visa type |
| Best For | Short trips | Longer stays |
Embassy and Consulate Information
Main Embassy
Paris
- Address: 20, rue Washington, 75008 Paris
- Phone: +33-1-47367790
- Email: consul@amb-chine.fr
- Website: fr.china-embassy.gov.cn
Consulates
| City | Address | Phone | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lyon | 69 Rue Duquesne, 69006, Lyon | +33-437248305 | lyon@csm.mfa.gov.cn | lyon.china-consulate.gov.cn |
| Marseille | [Contact embassy] | [Contact embassy] | - | - |
| Strasbourg | [Contact embassy] | [Contact embassy] | - | - |
CVASC Centers
For visa applications, visit your nearest China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC):
- Website: www.visaforchina.cn
- Paris Center: PAR3_EN
- Lyon, Marseille, Strasbourg: Check CVASC website for locations and hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do French citizens need a visa for China?
French citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days thanks to the visa-free policy (valid through December 31, 2026). For longer stays, a tourist visa is required.
Q: How long can French citizens stay in China without a visa?
French citizens can stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa under the unilateral visa-free policy. This policy is valid through December 31, 2026.
Q: Can French citizens get visa-free entry to China?
Yes! French citizens can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit purposes. No pre-notification or visa application is required—simply arrive with your valid ordinary passport.
Q: How much does a China visa cost for French citizens?
Tourist visa fees for French citizens are USD $22 for single-entry and USD $33 for double-entry visas. However, most travelers can use the free 30-day visa-free entry instead.
Q: How long does it take to get a China visa for French citizens?
Regular processing takes 6 working days. Express and rush services are not currently available, so plan to apply at least three months before travel.
Q: What documents do I need for a China visa as a French citizen?
Required documents include:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages)
- Completed online visa application form
- Passport photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, white background)
- Round-trip flight reservation
- Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel itinerary and financial proof are optional but recommended.
Q: Can French citizens use the 240-hour visa-free transit?
Yes, French citizens are eligible for 240-hour visa-free transit when transiting through Shanghai to a third country. This allows up to 10 days stay without a visa.
Q: Do French citizens need to provide fingerprints for China visa?
No, French citizens are exempted from fingerprint collection as of 2023 (except in special cases), making the entry process faster.
Q: Can I extend my 30-day visa-free stay in China?
If you need to stay longer than 30 days, you must apply for a temporary stay permit before your initial 30-day period expires. Do not overstay your visa-free period.
Q: Where can French citizens apply for a China visa?
French citizens can apply at China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) locations in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, or Strasbourg. Applications must be completed online first at www.visaforchina.cn.
Useful Resources
Related Guides
- 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Guide - Complete guide to visa-free transit
- 30-Day Visa-Free Entry - Compare visa-free options
- China Entry Procedures Guide - Step-by-step entry process
Official Sources
- Chinese Embassy in France - Official embassy website
- China Visa Application Service Center - CVASC Paris application portal
- 30-Day Visa-Free Policy Announcement - Official policy extension notice
- 240-Hour Transit Policy - Transit visa-free information
- National Immigration Administration - Electronic arrival card portal
- Shanghai 240-Hour Visa-Free Transit - Official Shanghai transit policy
Final Thoughts
Understanding China visa for French citizens requirements is straightforward thanks to the generous 30-day visa-free policy. For most trips to Shanghai, you can simply arrive with your passport—no visa application needed.
Key takeaways:
- French citizens enjoy 30-day visa-free entry until December 31, 2026
- Tourist visas cost USD $22 (single) or USD $33 (double) with 6-day processing
- French citizens are eligible for 240-hour visa-free transit when transiting to a third country
- No fingerprint collection required for French citizens (as of 2023)
- Complete your electronic arrival card online before departure for faster processing
For the most up-to-date information, always check official embassy and CVASC websites before traveling. The visa-free policy makes Shanghai more accessible than ever for French travelers—bon voyage!
This guide was last updated in January 2026. Visa policies may change, so please verify current requirements on official embassy and CVASC websites before traveling.
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