Travel Tip: How to Apply for a Chinese VISA (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, etc) in the Philippines

I've been to Macau and Hong Kong several times because travel time to these two Chinese regions takes less than two hours and they don't require VISA for Filipino tourists. Last month, I decided to explore mainland China--Shanghai in particular--and this is the third destination that I've been to (after Korea and Taiwan) that required VISA. Let mo show you how simple it was to acquire a Chinese VISA!

So you've been to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau and this time you want to explore mainland China? The first step is to apply for VISA. Please take note that aside from Shanghai, this is also applicable to other Chinese destinations like Beijing, Guangzhou, Haikou, Lijiang, Ningbo, etc. Before going to the Chinese embassy, make sure you complete the following requirements first: 1. Passport – Make sure it’s not expiring within 6 months. 2. Photocopy of the information/photo page and the emergency contact information page (must be completely filled out) of the passport. 3. Invitation letter – Since I’m just a tourist and I’m not going to work or study in China, I submitted a photocopy of my round-trip ticket and hotel voucher in lieu of the invitation letter. 4. Photocopy of latest ITR Statement (BIR Form 2316). 5. Employment or Business Certificate. 6. Bank certificate – I suggest you have at least P50,000 in your bank account to give an assurance that you have the ability to fund your travels in China. 7. Completed VISA Application Form which can be downloaded here: VISA Application Form of the People’s Republic of China. Since I applied for single entry, I paid P1,400 processing fee and after 3 working days, I claimed my VISA! If you opt for multiple entry in case you plan to explore other cities like Beijing or Guangzhou, the charge is P2,800 and it’s valid for 6 months.