If you’re a U.S. citizen planning a trip to China in 2025, knowing where to get a Chinese visa in the US is essential. Most Americans need a visa to enter China, and the process involves applying through official Chinese diplomatic missions. This guide provides precise, up-to-date information as of February 25, 2025, to help you locate the right place to secure your Chinese tourist visa (L visa), optimized for Google indexing and practical use.

Visa Options for US Citizens

Before identifying locations, note that U.S. citizens typically require a visa unless eligible for:

• • 144/240-hour Visa-Free Transit: Available in cities like Beijing or Shanghai for transiting to a third country.

• • Hainan 30-Day Visa-Free: For entry via Hainan with a registered travel agency.

For all other travel, including tourism, you’ll need to apply at a Chinese diplomatic mission in the U.S.

Where to Get a Chinese Visa in the US

China operates one embassy and five consulates in the United States, plus designated Visa Application Centers in some regions. Your application must go through the mission serving your residential jurisdiction—not your travel origin or destination. Below are the locations and their coverage areas:

1. Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C.

• • Address: 3505 International Place, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008

• • Jurisdiction: Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Delaware, Alabama, Idaho, Montana

• • Website: us.china-embassy.gov.cn

• • Notes: Handles diplomatic visas and serves as the primary hub. Visa applications here often go through the D.C. Visa Office (2201 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 110).

2. Consulate General in New York

• • Address: 520 12th Avenue, New York, NY 10036

• • Jurisdiction: New York, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont

• • Website: newyork.china-consulate.gov.cn

• • Visa Center: 10036 zip code area; also at 3rd Ave, New York, NY (check site for updates).

3. Consulate General in Chicago

• • Address: 100 West Erie Street, Chicago, IL 60654

• • Jurisdiction: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Colorado

• • Website: chicago.china-consulate.gov.cn

• • Visa Center: 142 E Ontario St, Suite 1880, Chicago, IL 60611

4. Consulate General in San Francisco

• • Address: 1450 Laguna Street, San Francisco, CA 94115

• • Jurisdiction: Northern California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Alaska

• • Website: sanfrancisco.china-consulate.gov.cn

• • Visa Center: 2510 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94115

5. Consulate General in Los Angeles

• • Address: 443 Shatto Place, Los Angeles, CA 90020

• • Jurisdiction: Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, Pacific territories

• • Website: losangeles.china-consulate.gov.cn

• • Visa Center: 1055 W 7th St, Suite 320, Los Angeles, CA 90017

6. Consulate General in Houston

• • Address: 3417 Montrose Boulevard, Houston, TX 77006

• • Jurisdiction: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Puerto Rico

• • Website: houston.china-consulate.gov.cn

• • Visa Center: Planned opening in 2025—check site for updates; currently processed at consulate.

How to Apply at These Locations

Step 1: Determine Your Jurisdiction

Match your permanent U.S. residence (e.g., from your driver’s license or utility bill) to the correct consulate. Applying outside your area may result in rejection.

Step 2: Start Online

Visit www.visaforchina.cn or your consulate’s website to complete the China Online Visa Application (COVA) form. Select your jurisdiction, fill out the form, and print it with your signature.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Most locations require appointments via the visa center’s “Quick Access” section. Bring:

• • Passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages).

• • COVA form and photo.

• • Proof of travel (e.g., flight itinerary—optional at some sites).

Step 4: Submit In-Person

Visit the consulate or its visa center. Fingerprinting is required for ages 14-70. Fees are $140 for single/multiple-entry visas (10-year validity available), with processing in 4 days (standard) or faster for extra costs.

Step 5: Pick Up Your Visa

Return with your receipt to collect your passport and visa.

Tips for US Applicants

• • No Mail-In Option: Most consulates require in-person submission—confirm locally.

• • Third-Party Agents: Services like CIBTvisas can handle it for a fee if you can’t visit.

• • Processing Time: Apply 1-2 months ahead; visas are valid for 90 days from issuance.

• • Contact: Use consulate websites or call (e.g., D.C.: 202-495-2266) for specifics.

Get Ready for China

Securing your visa from the right location opens the door to China’s wonders. Need travel inspiration? Hellochinatrip.com offers tailored itineraries—reach out today!