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After five long years, there is finally good news for travelers from China. The India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens has resumed again. From July 2025, Chinese visitors can apply for tourist visas to India, something that was not possible since 2020. This decision has brought relief to tourists, travel agencies, and families who were waiting for an opportunity to reconnect across borders.
In this blog, we will explain why the visas were stopped, what has changed now, how Chinese citizens can apply, and what important details they should know before planning their trip. The goal is to give you all the information in one place, so that you are left with no doubts.
Why was the visa stopped?
Back in 2020, the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost every country closed its borders and restricted travel. India also suspended the issue of tourist visas for foreign nationals, including citizens of China.
At the same time, the border tensions between India and China created additional challenges. While some categories of visas such as business, medical, and student visas were slowly restored, the India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens remained suspended for years.
For travelers and families, this meant no holidays, no spiritual trips, and no sightseeing in India. For the tourism industry, it meant losing one of the important groups of visitors.
What has changed now?
In July 2025, India officially announced the restart of the India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens. This marks the first time since 2020 that Chinese travelers are allowed to apply for tourist visas again.
Here are the key changes:
- Visa application centres reopened: Chinese applicants can now submit their applications in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
- Biometric process: Applicants will need to provide fingerprints and photographs as part of the process.
- Online application system: The application begins through the official India Online Visa portal, where forms and documents are submitted before visiting the visa centre.
- Tourism category only: The resumed visa is for tourism and travel. If someone wants to work or study in India, they must apply for a different type of visa.
This step has been welcomed as a positive move for both India and China, helping strengthen people-to-people ties.
How can Chinese citizens apply?
The process is simple, but it must be followed carefully. Here is a step-by-step explanation:
- Start online – Go to the official Indian visa website and choose the tourist visa option. This is often called the India Online Visa system.
- Fill out the application – Provide your personal information, passport details, travel plans, and contact details.
- Upload documents – You may need to upload a passport-size photo, a copy of your passport, proof of accommodation, and return flight bookings.
- Pay the fee – Visa fees must be paid online. Always keep a receipt.
- Book an appointment – Choose a date and time at one of the Indian visa centres in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.
- Visit in person – Submit your documents, give fingerprints, and complete the biometric process.
- Wait for approval – After processing, your passport will be returned with the visa.
It is very important to use only official websites and centres. Avoid agents or unofficial websites that may charge extra or give false promises.
Important things to know before applying
If you are a Chinese citizen planning to apply for the India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens, here are a few things you must remember:
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel.
- Clear documents: Prepare your flight bookings, hotel bookings, and proof of funds in advance.
- No work or study: A tourist visa cannot be used for working, studying, or staying long term in India.
- Processing time: Since the service has just resumed, processing might take extra time. Plan your trip with some buffer.
- Stay updated: Rules and requirements may change. Always check the official Indian embassy or consulate website before applying.
Why this decision is important
The return of the India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens is not just about paperwork. It is about rebuilding trust and connections.
- Tourism industry: India is home to world-famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s forts, Kerala’s backwaters, and Varanasi’s ghats. Chinese tourists will now be able to experience these places again, boosting hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.
- Cultural exchange: Both countries have rich traditions. Tourism allows people to experience each other’s culture directly, making relations warmer at the people level.
- Families and friends: Many Chinese people have friends or family in India. Visiting them is now possible without restrictions.
- Diplomatic signals: On a bigger level, this step shows a softening in India-China relations. Restarting visas is a message of cooperation and openness.
Challenges travelers may face
Even though the visa has resumed, travelers might face a few difficulties:
- Flights: Direct flight options between India and China may still be limited. Always check available routes before planning.
- Language barriers: Some forms and documents are in English, which may be difficult for some applicants. Using the official India Online Visa site can help reduce mistakes.
- Extra checks: Due to the long suspension, applications may face stricter scrutiny in the beginning. Be patient and provide all required documents.
- Changing policies: Diplomatic relations can change, so always keep an eye on updated news and embassy announcements.
Final thoughts
The reopening of the India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens after five years is a welcome development. It opens the doors again for Chinese travelers to explore India’s history, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the Taj Mahal to the Ganges, from yoga retreats to modern cities, India has something special to offer every visitor.
If you are planning to apply, remember to use the official India Online Visa system, prepare your documents properly, and apply well in advance. By doing so, you will avoid delays and enjoy a smooth journey.
This decision is more than just policy—it is about people reconnecting after years of restrictions. For Chinese travelers, it means that India is once again open, inviting you to discover its culture, food, traditions, and warm hospitality.
So, pack your bags, complete your application, and get ready. Because now, the wait is finally over—India Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens is back.