Since February 5, 2024 Chinese visas are processed through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Makati. We’re going back to China so here’s a clear, organized guide based on my experience last March 31, 2025 applying for Chinese Visa in Manila.

Why Apply Personally?

The visa used to be processed by the Chinese Embassy, so I normally would seek travel agent to apply since personal appearance is not required. But now applications go through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Although using an agent is still possible, and many people do it, with double service fees (Visa Center + Travel Agency), the visa becomes too expensive! And since we are four travelers, I have to apply personally. Travel agents charges between 2000 to 2500.

Location and Operating Hours

  • Address: 6762 Noble Square Building, 6th Floor, Ayala Avenue, Makati City.
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (excluding holidays).
  • Urgent Processing: Only until 11:00 AM, restricted to specific visa categories.
  • Contact: 0962-721-8061 or (02) 5322-6888.

Recommended Arrival Time – 9:00

The center opens at 9:00 AM, and I highly recommend arriving at opening time. There are around 27 or 28 windows available, but queues can fill quickly. On my recent visit, I arrived at 11:00 AM and it was a BIG mistake! and ended waiting a long times because about half the windows close for lunch breaks between 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. But If you do arrive at 11:00 AM, get a queue number, go take your lunch, and return around 1:00 PM and you’ll still be early before your number is called, especially if you did not pay for express. There are several classes of applicants – the VIP (Express), SVIP (Rush), Travel Agents, and bottom of the barrel, Individual applicant (queue number starting with “I”).

Application Timing

Apply at least one month in advance, with the earliest possible being three months ahead. Single-entry visas are valid for three months from the date of approval. Given my experience, I’d recommend applying for a longer-term multiple-entry visa (e.g., two-year validity) if you anticipate frequent visits or spontaneous trips.

Required Documents for Tourist Visa (L Visa)

For repeat applicants:

  • Completed online application form and Print (Download Sample).
  • 2 passport-sized photos (35mm x 45mm)
  • Original valid passport and photocopy of the bio page.
  • Photocopy of Latest Chinese Visa.
  • Original previous passport containing the last Chinese visa (if applicable), plus photocopies of the bio page and visa page.
  • E-travel/latest arrival stamp

For first-time applicants, additional documents required:

  • Original bank certificate and 6-month bank statement (personal or sponsor’s).
  • Certificate of Employment.
  • Personal Income Tax Return (ITR) or Business Permit (SEC/DTI).
  • Guarantee letter (for sponsored travel).
  • Detailed itinerary, hotel bookings, and roundtrip flight details.

For minors and students:

  • Birth certificate.
  • Student ID or proof of school registration.

Visa Fees (2025)

Visa fees vary by entry type and processing speed. Here’s a brief summary:

  • Single Entry (Regular): Php 2,898
  • Double Entry (Regular): Php 3,448
  • Multiple Entries (6 months): Php 3,948
  • Multiple Entries (over 6 months to 2years): Php 4,998

Express and rush processing have higher fees. Refer to the included Chinese Visa fee chart for detailed pricing.

Important Tips

  • Double Check the following: Name, Passport#, Birthday, Nationality, Gender.
  • Print and photocopy all documents beforehand to avoid the onsite printing fee of Php 10 per page.
  • Payment must be made in cash upon submission.
  • Consider your travel frequency carefully—applying for a longer-term multiple-entry visa may be more convenient and cost-effective.

  • Please check if your passport has an arrival stamp for your most recent entry into the Philippines, if not, provide an e-travel certificate.

Overall, the Chinese Visa Application Service Center process was efficient once I understood the timing and document preparation nuances. I hope this guide makes your experience smoother.