China Travel Document Guide for Minors — LA Consulate
A Chinese Travel Document is used by Chinese nationals who do not yet hold a Chinese passport — typically minors born in the US — to travel to China. This guide covers required documents and the application process for new applications and renewals.
Source: Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles (Content sourced from official announcements. Always verify with the consulate.)
A Chinese Travel Document (旅行证) is issued to Chinese nationals who have never held a Chinese passport — most commonly minors born abroad — or to Chinese citizens whose passport has been lost and cannot be replaced in time, allowing them to return to China. Unlike a passport, a Travel Document is generally only valid for travel to mainland China and cannot be used to enter other countries.
Who Is This For?
- Chinese-national minors born in the United States who have never held a Chinese passport
- Chinese citizens whose passport has been lost and who need an emergency travel document to return to China
- Individuals whose Travel Document has expired and needs renewal
New Application (Minors) — Required Documents
- Travel Document application form (downloaded from the China Consular app or consulate website, signed by both parents)
- Original birth certificate of the minor, plus a copy (English documents must include a certified translation)
- Original Chinese passports of both parents, plus copies (or other proof of Chinese nationality)
- Copies of both parents' US lawful status (Green Card or valid visa)
- Recent white-background ID photo of the minor (2" × 2", 48mm×33mm)
- If parents are divorced: divorce decree and proof of custody (both documents require certified translation)
- At least one parent must appear in person at the consulate (minor must also be present)
Renewal (Expired Travel Document) — Required Documents
- Travel Document renewal application form
- Original expired Travel Document
- Copies of parents' passports and US lawful status (for minors)
- Recent ID photo
Application Process
- Download the China Consular app, fill in the application, and schedule an appointment at the LA Consulate.
- Prepare all physical documents (birth certificate must include a notarized translation — have this completed in advance).
- Both parents and the minor must appear at the LA Consulate (500 Shatto Place, Los Angeles) at the scheduled time.
- Processing typically takes 10–15 business days. Documents can be picked up or mailed back.
Processing Time & Fees
- Regular processing: approximately 10–15 business days
- Fee: approximately $15–$30 (confirm with consulate)
Important Notes
- Travel Documents are typically valid for 1–2 years. They cannot be extended and must be reapplied for upon expiration.
- A Travel Document is valid only for travel to mainland China — it cannot be used to enter any other country or region.
- While in China, minors should complete household registration (hukou) and apply for a Chinese passport as soon as possible for future travel flexibility.
- Birth certificate translations must be provided by a qualified translation agency — self-translations are not accepted.
Travel Document applications involve strict identity verification for minors, particularly around notarized birth certificate translations and parental custody documentation. We have extensive experience handling Travel Document applications in the Los Angeles area and can help you get it done right the first time. Contact us to learn more.