China has revised its visa application process for Indian passport holders, introducing direct document submissions to diplomatic missions, updated consular jurisdictions and changes to application-related service fees. The changes aim to simplify procedures for Indian tourists, business travellers and students visiting China.

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Under the revised system, applicants must complete an online document review before submitting their physical documents and passports through the designated Chinese Embassy or consulate. The updated process also changes how applications are handled across different regions of India.

Applicants residing in Maharashtra and Karnataka fall under the jurisdiction of the Chinese Consulate General in Mumbai. Residents of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha and Chhattisgarh are covered by the Chinese Consulate General in Kolkata.

Applicants from the remaining Indian states and union territories come under the jurisdiction of the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi. Those applying through New Delhi must make their bank drafts payable directly to the Chinese Embassy, according to the revised guidelines.

The changes also include relief on application-related costs. According to the supplied announcement, applications submitted after the late-October transition deadline will no longer attract visa application centre service fees. The reduced visa fee schedule for Indian passport holders is set to remain in effect until December 31, 2026.

The revised procedures are relevant for travellers planning holidays, business visits or educational trips to China. Applicants should confirm their consular jurisdiction, payment requirements and document checklist before submitting an application to avoid delays.

Travellers should also check the latest instructions published by the Chinese Embassy or the relevant consulate, particularly regarding the transition deadline, applicable visa fees and document submission arrangements.