China M Visa for Business Travel Your gateway to accessing the world's manufacturing and trade hub for commercial activities, business meetings, trade fairs, and client visits.
Commercial Access
Business Networking
Trade Opportunities
Facilitates legitimate business and
Enables face-to-face meetings with
Opens doors to major trade fairs,
trade activities within mainland
manufacturers, suppliers and
factory visits and contract
China
potential partners
negotiations
Eligibility & Purpose of the M Visa The M Visa is specifically designed for business professionals engaging in commercial activities within China, distinct from other visa categories.
Intended for Commercial Activities
Trade Fair Participation
Specifically for foreigners conducting trade
Permits attendance at China's numerous international
negotiations, business meetings, contract signings and
trade exhibitions and commercial events
similar commercial engagements
Invitation Requirement
Distinct from F Visa
Requires formal invitation from a registered Chinese
Not applicable for academic exchanges, cultural
business entity or trade fair organiser
activities or non-commercial visits which fall under the F visa category
Required Documents for M Visa Application Essential Documentation
Supporting Materials
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity remaining)
Business cover letter from applicant's company
Two blank visa pages in passport
explaining purpose of visit
Completed and signed online visa application form
Proof of current residency (driver's licence, utility bill, or
Colour photograph (48mm × 33mm) with white
government ID)
background
Itinerary of planned business activities in China
Official invitation letter from Chinese company or trade
Previous Chinese visas (if applicable)
fair organiser
Evidence of financial means to support stay
All documents must be submitted in their original form with photocopies. Translations may be required for non-English documents.
Application Process Overview Document Preparation Gather all required documentation including invitation letter, passport, photographs and supporting business materials
Submission Submit application package at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center or embassy in your jurisdiction
Processing Standard processing takes approximately 4 working days; express and rush services available for additional fees
Potential Interview Consular officers may request an interview to verify application details and travel purpose
Collection Retrieve passport with visa or receive notification of additional requirements
Recent Policy Updates & On-Arrival Visa Option New On-Arrival Business Visa Process
Long-Term Visa Renewal Options
Recent policy changes have created a streamlined pathway
The updated policy also introduces greater flexibility for
for urgent business travel to China, eliminating the need for
business travellers with established commercial relationships
advance visa application in certain circumstances.
in China.
Available at major international ports of entry
Multiple-entry 3-year business visas available
Requires company invitation letter and supporting
Can be reissued after entry into China
documents
Simplified renewal process for frequent visitors
Designed for time-sensitive business opportunities
Facilitates ongoing business relationships
Processing typically completed within hours
Visa Validity and Duration of Stay Standard Validity
Stay Duration
Typical M visas are valid for 3 months, with
Each visit permitted ranges from 30 to 120
single or multiple entry options depending
days depending on nationality and specific
on business needs and application
visa terms
1
2
3
4
Extended Options
Extensions
Nationals of certain countries (US, UK,
Visa extensions can be arranged locally
Canada) may qualify for long-term multiple-
before expiry through the Public Security
entry visas with validity up to 10 years
Bureau for approximately CNY 160
The actual duration of stay is determined by immigration officers at the port of entry and may differ from the maximum allowed by your visa.
Business Opportunities Enabled by M Visa Major Trade Fairs Access world-renowned exhibitions including the Canton Fair (held twice yearly), Yiwu International Commodities Fair, and Shanghai East China Fair, connecting with thousands of suppliers in a single location
Factory Visits & Inspections Conduct on-site quality control, tour manufacturing facilities, and establish direct relationships with producers across China's vast manufacturing ecosystem
Partnership Development Build face-to-face relationships with potential partners, negotiate contracts directly, and establish presence in the world's largest manufacturing economy
Summary: Unlocking China's Commercial Potential Key Takeaways M Visa provides simplified access to China's vast business ecosystem Clear documentation and proper invitation letters are critical for approval
Next Steps 1. Contact Chinese business partners to secure formal invitation 2. Prepare complete application package with all supporting documents
New on-arrival policies enhance travel flexibility for
3. Submit application at least 2 weeks before planned travel
urgent business needs
4. Consider long-term visa options for ongoing business
Multiple-entry options available for sustained trade relations Duration of stay varies from 30-120 days per visit
relationships 5. Research major trade fairs coinciding with your business sector
