Visa on arrival blank passport pages requirement

Question

Does anyone know how many blank pages you need in your passport to get a transit visa on arrival? I can only find requirements for when you apply for a proper visa at the embassy (2 blank pages). I have 1.5 spare pages left and I’m not sure if this will be an issue if not (I know the visa on arrival sticker is much smaller than the traditional full page visa). If so I will apply for a new passport before I travel through China.

Answer

For a China Transit Visa on Arrival (VOA), the passport requirements are slightly more relaxed than applying for a standard visa at an embassy. While a full visa application usually specifies at least two blank pages, the transit visa on arrival is smaller in size and typically does not require a full page.

1. Blank Pages Requirement

Most sources and traveler reports indicate that for a China transit visa on arrival, having at least one completely blank page in your passport is sufficient. The VOA sticker is smaller than a traditional visa and usually fits within a single page without affecting adjacent pages.

If you have 1.5 blank pages, this is generally enough for the VOA sticker.
The immigration officers primarily check that there is enough space for the sticker, so even partial pages may suffice as long as it is clear and unobstructed.
If your remaining space is less than one full page, it may still be accepted, but it is safer to ensure at least one blank page.

2. Additional Tips

Check your passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into China.
Carry all necessary documents for the transit visa, including flight details showing your onward travel within the allowed 24–144 hours depending on the port of entry.
If in doubt, especially for tight pages, consider renewing your passport before travel to avoid any complications at arrival.

In summary, with 1.5 blank pages, you should not have any problem obtaining a China transit visa on arrival. The sticker is small and designed to fit on one page. However, ensuring at least one completely blank page and valid passport status is recommended to avoid delays or refusals.