Your Guide to Getting a China Business Visa from India: What You Need to Know

With business ties growing across borders, it's no surprise that an increasing number of Indian professionals and companies are looking to explore opportunities in China. Whether it’s manufacturing companies, trade consultancies, or businesses heading to international expos, more and more firms are applying for business visas to China. 

But what exactly does it take to apply for a China business visa from India in 2025? If you're among the many looking to visit China for commercial or trade-related activities, you're in the right place. In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about obtaining a China Business Visa (M Visa) for Indian Citizens- from requirements to the application process.

 

Understanding the China Business Visa (M Visa)

 

Let’s start with the basics- what exactly is an M visa and who needs it?

The M visa is issued to individuals intending to travel to China for commercial or trade activities- whether that’s attending trade fairs, exploring joint ventures, or engaging in supplier meetings. It’s the perfect fit if your trip to China has a business intent at its core.

 

Thinking about expanding your business to China? Talk to our visa experts today

 

First Things First: Where to Apply?

Before diving into forms and documents, let’s figure out where you actually need to go.

Your application destination depends on where you live in India. Understanding your jurisdiction upfront saves a lot of confusion later.

• Maharashtra or Karnataka? Head to the Chinese Consulate-General in Mumbai.
  
  
• Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, or West Bengal? Your visa is processed in Kolkata.
  
  
• Anywhere else? It goes through the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi.

 

Once you know your consular jurisdiction, you'll be submitting your documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in Mumbai, Kolkata, or New Delhi. 

 

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a China Business Visa (M Category)

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry- here’s a clear, no-fuss walkthrough of the application process.

We’ll break it down step by step so you can apply confidently without second-guessing what comes next.

• Visit the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website for your jurisdiction and fill out your visa application form online.
  
  
• Print the completed form and gather the required documents (see the checklist below).
  
  
• Submit your application in person at the Visa Application Center corresponding to your region. (As of November 2023, no prior appointment is required. You can walk in and apply on any working day within the due time limit. Check exact timings on the CVASC website.)
  
  
• Provide fingerprints as required (see below for exemptions).
  
  
• Your documents will be forwarded by the CVASC to the appropriate consulate or embassy for further processing.

 

Applying for a Business (M) Visa: What You’ll Need

For those planning to visit China for commercial or trade purposes, here’s your checklist:

 

General Documents (Applies to all visa types):

• A completed visa application form and confirmation page (filled online).
  
  
• Your original passport (valid for at least 6 months with 2 or more blank visa pages) and a passport photocopy information pages; and expired passports within 5 years.
  
  
• Two recent passport-sized colour photos (48mm x 33mm, full face, front view and bare head, within 6 months)).
  
  
• Copies of any past Chinese visas (if applicable).
  
  
• If you're not an Indian citizen, include proof of your legal stay in India (original & photocopy).
  
  
• Covering letter with applicant details, purpose, places to visit, and inviter’s info.

 

Supporting Documents for Business Visa (M category):

• An invitation letter or relevant documentation provided by a trade partner in China, a trade fair organizer, or another authorized entity or individual outlining the commercial activity. The invitation letter should outline:
  
  
• Applicant’s information: full name, gender, date of birth, etc.
• Trip overview: purpose, travel dates, places to be visited, applicant’s connection with the inviter, and who is covering the costs
• Inviting entity/Individual’s details: name, contact number, address, official stamp, signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual
  
  
• A copy of the inviter’s business license.
  
  
• A copy of the inviter's ID card (both sides) or of the legal representative.

 

Tip: It's always best to double-check that your inviter’s details are consistent and their ID is valid.

 

Other supporting documents may also be required depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances and the specific requirements of the Chinese consulate or embassy where the application is submitted.

 

Always check the latest guidelines from the official website or contact the consulate directly before applying.

 

Who Doesn’t Need to Submit Fingerprints?

 

Good news! If you fall under any of the following categories, you're exempt from fingerprinting:

• You're under 14 or over 70. (Currently no required fingerprints to submit the application, only applicants need to go personally for submission if they wish to process the 1 year multiple entry visa, rest type visa application we can submit on behalf of the applicant.) 
   
  
• You've had fingerprints collected in the past five years at the Mumbai center using the same passport.
  
  
• Applicants with all fingers mutilated or uncollectible.
  
  
• As part of a temporary convenience measure, applicants who are eligible for short-term single or double-entry visas (with a stay of no more than 180 days) are also exempt from fingerprint collection. (Note: This is a temporary measure- please refer to the official notice for updates on its expiration)

 

How Long Does It Take?

 

The timeline for qualified visa application is refreshingly quick:

• Express service: Usually 3 working days. 
  
  
• Regular service: Around 4 working days. 

 

Note: Due to heavy rush current passport collection can be delayed by 2 -3 days in both service categories. 

 

There’s also a VIP service (offered by the Visa Center, not the Consulate) useful for those needing added convenience (like shorter waiting times at the center). However, this does not affect how quickly your visa is processed or issued.

 

A Few Pro Tips Before You Apply

 

The key to a hassle-free visa process? Preparation. 

Keep a folder of all the required documents, double-check that your passport has enough validity and blank pages, and don’t forget to print your filled application confirmation before heading to the center.

 

We’ve helped plenty of applicants through this journey- here are a few insider tips to make things easier for you:

 

• Make sure all documents are complete and accurate- any missing detail can delay your visa.
  
  
• Photographs must be recent (within 6 months) and follow official dimensions.
  
  
• Always cross-check the inviter’s details and ensure they are verifiable.
  
  
• Keep backup copies of all documents, especially your invitation letter.
  
  
• Book your flight and hotel only after your visa is confirmed.

 

Let’s Make It Happen

 

Applying for a Chinese Business Visa can seem overwhelming at first, but staying organized and up to date with the latest guidelines will make the process smooth and stress-free. While this guide is designed to help you apply on your own, we know it can be easier to have expert support along the way to handle the details. 

 

If you have any doubts or need support with documentation, timelines, form filling, or crafting a compelling cover letter- we're just a call or message away.

 

• Want to talk to someone about your application? Get in touch with our visa specialists 
  
  
• Prefer email? Drop us a note at inquiry@btwvisas.com and we’ll get back.

 

Safe travels and good business ahead!