USA entry requirements for travellers from China
Visa requirement summary
Chinese passport holders need a US visa to visit the United States. China is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, so Chinese nationals must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa before travelling.
The B-1/B-2 covers tourism, visiting family, and short business trips. The application requires a DS-160 form, a $185 fee, and a mandatory in-person interview at a US Embassy or Consulate in China. Note that US-China diplomatic relations can affect consular operations and processing times — check the current status of US missions in China before applying.
Applying for the B-1/B-2 visa
The B-1/B-2 is a combined business/tourism visitor visa. Applications are made online and in person through the following steps:
1. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov. This is the standard nonimmigrant visa application form. Answer all questions fully — incomplete or inaccurate responses can result in refusal.
2. Pay the MRV fee. The current visa application fee is $185 per person. This is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Payment is made through the local US Embassy’s payment system before you book your appointment.
3. Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary significantly — from a few days to many months depending on the embassy location and time of year. Check current wait times at the US Embassy’s local website before you plan your trip.
4. Attend the in-person interview. Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, appointment confirmation, and your supporting documents. A consular officer will ask about your travel plans, employment, finances, and ties to your home country.
5. Collect your visa or receive a decision. If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker. If additional administrative processing is needed, this can add several weeks.
Key documents to prepare
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
- Bank statements covering three to six months
- Proof of employment or business ownership in China
- Property documents or other evidence of strong ties to China
- Travel itinerary
- Family relationships (invitation letter if visiting relatives in the US)
The consular officer will assess whether you have genuine tourism intentions and strong enough ties to China to return after your visit.
How long you can stay
The B-1/B-2 visa validity and the permitted stay duration are set separately. Many Chinese nationals receive a ten-year multiple-entry visa, but each admission is determined by CBP at the US port of entry — typically up to six months for tourism.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the United States.
Proof of funds
Bank statements showing stable, adequate funds over several months are typically required. There is no published minimum, but funds must convincingly cover your travel costs.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return flight to China and a clear itinerary are expected.
Health requirements
No vaccination requirements for Chinese citizens entering the United States.
Other entry requirements
You cannot work in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa. Study programmes exceeding 18 hours per week require a student visa.
Travellers should be aware that current US-China relations may affect consular operations, processing times, or interview procedures. Check the US Embassy website for current service availability.
FAQs
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for the USA?
Yes. China is not a VWP country. Chinese nationals must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at a US Embassy or Consulate.
How much does the US visa cost?
The MRV application fee is $185, non-refundable.
How long is a US visa valid for Chinese nationals?
Many applicants receive a ten-year multiple-entry visa, but this is at the consular officer’s discretion. Each stay is capped by CBP at the port of entry — typically up to six months.
Where can I apply in China?
US Embassy Beijing and US Consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Shenyang handle visa applications. Check which location is most convenient and the current appointment availability.
What makes a US visa application successful?
Strong employment, property ownership, family ties in China, and adequate bank funds all demonstrate you intend to return home after your visit. Previous travel to the US or other countries can also help.