China Visa Requirements — Los Angeles Consulate General
The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles serves Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, and more. This guide summarizes the latest visa requirements, document checklists, and key information for applicants in this district.
Source: Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles (Content sourced from official announcements. Always verify with the consulate.)
Consulate General Information
- Address: 500 Shatto Place, Los Angeles, CA 90020
- Visa Submission Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (excluding holidays)
- Passport Pick-Up Hours: Mon–Fri 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Phone: (213) 807-8088
- Official Website: losangeles.china-consulate.gov.cn
Consular District Coverage
The Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles has jurisdiction over: Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
How to Apply
Since September 2025, all visa applications must first be submitted online through the COVA system (consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/) and an appointment must be secured before bringing physical documents to the consulate window.
Document Checklist by Visa Type
L Visa (Tourism / Family Visit)
- Original valid passport (valid 6+ months beyond planned return date, with at least one blank page)
- Copy of passport bio page (printed on A4 paper)
- Recent color photo with white background (48mm×33mm, taken within the past 6 months)
- Visa application form (printed from COVA, signed by applicant)
- Round-trip flight reservation or confirmed tickets
- Hotel reservation for entire stay in China
- Family visit: copy of host's Chinese passport or ID, and proof of relationship
- Non-US citizens: copy of US lawful status (Green Card or valid visa)
M Visa (Business)
- All basic documents above
- Invitation letter from the Chinese company (must include names of both parties, purpose, dates, and who covers expenses)
- Applicant's company business license or business card
Q Visa (Family Reunion — Permanent Residents)
- All basic documents above
- Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc. — non-Chinese documents must include certified translation)
- Copy of Chinese relative's household registration (hukou) booklet or ID card
Visa Fees
- US citizens: approximately $100–$140 per category (confirm with consulate at time of submission)
- Non-US citizens: fees based on reciprocal principle with applicant's home country
- Payment accepted: cash (USD) or USPS Money Order payable to "Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles" only — no credit cards, checks, or bank transfers
Processing Times
- Regular processing: 4 business days
- Expedited (3 business days): additional fee applies
- Rush (2 business days): additional fee, limited availability
Appointment slots at the LA Consulate fill up quickly — especially during peak seasons (summer and around Chinese New Year). We recommend booking 2–3 weeks in advance. Our office in Arcadia is about 30 minutes from the LA Consulate, and we can handle submission and pick-up on your behalf. Contact us to learn more.