China extends visa fee reductions for Indians until December 2025

The Chinese Embassy in India has announced an extension of reduced visa fees for travelers until December 31, 2025. This measure aims to streamline travel procedures for foreigners visiting China.

Under the extended scheme, the single-entry visa fee remains ₹2,900, while double-entry visas are priced at ₹4,400. The cost for a six-month multiple-entry visa is ₹5,900, and a 12-month or longer multiple-entry visa is ₹8,800. Group visas and official group visas will continue to cost ₹1,800 per applicant.

This decision builds on cost-reduction measures introduced last year, aimed at encouraging greater travel and engagement between the two nations.

Progress on India-China Border Discussions
This announcement coincides with developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), as India and China reported progress in restoring stability in certain disputed areas. The Ministry of Defence (MoD), in its year-end review, stated that both nations have reached a "broad consensus" to address differences.

"India and China achieved a broad consensus to restore the ground situation in certain areas along the LAC. Both countries have been holding talks at diplomatic and military levels to resolve differences," the MoD said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted this progress during the Chanakya Defence Dialogue on October 24, 2024, emphasizing that "continuous dialogue brings solutions."

The MoD also reported that the Indian Army maintained a high level of operational readiness to ensure stability along its borders, including the LAC. Counter-terrorism operations were carried out alongside infrastructure development initiatives in border areas. These measures align with the government’s "Viksit Bharat Vision" to enhance national security and frontier infrastructure.

How to apply for a Chinese visa
In August 2024, the Chinese Embassy in India announced updated guidelines for visa applications to facilitate a streamlined process for Indian applicants. These updates cover application procedures, jurisdictional requirements, and document submissions.

Special Categories and Exemptions
Diplomatic, official, and courtesy visas are exempt from fingerprint collection and must be submitted directly to the consular sections. Foreign nationals eligible for visa-free entry include those under valid mutual visa exemption agreements or those holding APEC cards, residence permits, or transit visa exemptions.

Applicants may be required to provide original invitation letters or attend interviews based on their visa category. Guidelines for visa fees and related services can be accessed on the embassy’s official website.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/china-extends-visa-fee-reductions-for-indians-until-december-2025/articleshow/116845843.cms