China Extends Reduced Visa Fees for Indian Travellers Until 2025

The Chinese Embassy in India has extended reduced visa fees for travelers until December 31, 2025, making travel to China more accessible for Indian citizens. This positive development comes amidst improving relations between the two nations.

Good news for Indian travellers planning a trip to China! The Chinese Embassy in India has announced an extension of reduced visa fees, offering more affordable travel options for visitors. This move aims to further strengthen travel and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Simplified Visa Application Process
In a bid to streamline visa applications, the Chinese Embassy introduced updated guidelines in August 2024. These updates focus on jurisdictional requirements, document submissions, and procedural efficiency:

Submission Locations
• Mumbai Consulate-General: Handles applications from Maharashtra and Karnataka.
• Kolkata Consulate-General: Manages applications from Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal.
• New Delhi Embassy: Processes applications from other regions.

Direct Submissions
From November 2023, applicants no longer require appointments and can directly submit their applications on any working day. Eligible applications are processed on the same day.

Fingerprint Exemptions
• Children under 14 and individuals over 70.
• Applicants with fingerprints collected in the past five years using the same passport.
• Those with uncollectible fingerprints.

Visa-Free Entry Provisions
Certain foreign nationals can enter China visa-free, including those:

• Covered under valid mutual visa exemption agreements.
• Holding APEC cards or valid residence permits.
• Eligible for transit visa exemptions.

Additional requirements, such as invitation letters or interviews, may apply depending on the visa type.

Improved Bilateral Relations
This announcement aligns with ongoing diplomatic progress between India and China. Recent developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) have shown a “broad consensus” to resolve disputes. Continuous diplomatic and military-level talks are fostering stability, as emphasized by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the Chanakya Defence Dialogue in October 2024.

The Ministry of Defence highlighted that these efforts align with India’s “Viksit Bharat Vision,” focusing on enhancing border infrastructure and national security. Counter-terrorism operations and infrastructure projects in border areas further bolster this vision.

Source: https://travelobiz.com/china-extends-reduced-visa-fees-for-indian-travellers-until-2025/