China streamlines visa process for Bangladeshis, mandatory online applications

The Chinese Embassy in Dhaka has rolled out a revised, tech-driven application process for Bangladeshi citizens requiring mandatory online submissions, potential video interviews, and stricter deadlines to expedite approvals and reduce processing bottlenecks.

The changes, outlined in an official embassy notice, aim to modernise and standardise the visa application workflow, aligning Bangladesh with global practices already implemented in major Chinese visa hubs like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kathmandu — all listed on the official portal, visaforchina.cn.

Step 1: Online application & document upload

All applicants must now complete their visa forms and upload supporting documents exclusively via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center’s official website: https://www.visaforchina.cn/ .

After submission, applicants will receive an initial review result directly on the portal. Outcomes may include:

• “Approved” — proceed to passport submission.

• “Corrections/Supplementary Documents Required” — applicants must rectify or upload missing items and resubmit promptly.

• “Video Interview Scheduled” — applicants must appear online or in-person at the embassy on the assigned date for an interview.

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Step 2: Biometrics & passport submission

Upon initial approval, applicants — or their authorised representatives — must submit their physical passports along with printed application documents at the visa center. At this stage, biometric data (fingerprints) will be captured, and the visa fee must be paid.

Exemptions from fingerprinting apply to:

• Children under 14

• Seniors over 70

• Applicants who provided fingerprints within the last 5 years

• Individuals physically unable to provide biometrics

Step 3: Visa collection & processing timelines

Approved visas can be collected on the scheduled date. Standard processing now takes 4 working days, while urgent applications are processed in 3 working days.

Special rules for agencies

Visa agencies acting on behalf of applicants face tighter deadlines:

• If an application is flagged for corrections, agencies must submit revised documents within 3 working days.

• After initial approval, passports must be submitted within 2 working days.

• Once documents are received, the visa will be issued within 1 working day.

The Chinese Embassy has strongly urged all applicants and agencies to strictly adhere to these timelines and instructions to avoid travel disruptions.

“Timely compliance with the new procedures is essential to ensure smooth and efficient visa processing,” the embassy stated. 

The overhaul reflects China’s broader push to digitise consular services while maintaining security and efficiency a move that, if well-implemented, could significantly reduce wait times and paperwork for Bangladeshi travellers, students, and business visitors heading to one of the world’s largest economies.