Double entry visa for China

Question

I am visiting a friend who lives in China, but I would also like to visit my uncle who lives in Taiwan. My understanding is that I will need to apply for a double entry visa - how difficult are these to get? How do I incorporate the Taiwan portion into my visa application, or do I just complete the itinerary for China only, and once I get the visa, sort out the Taiwan portion of my trip? I am planning on visiting my friend for a week, then visit my uncle for a week, and then back to my friend in China for the last week. Please help!

Answer

For your planned trip, you will indeed need a Chinese visa that allows multiple entries, because you intend to leave China for Taiwan and then return to China. Taiwan has a separate immigration system and is not part of mainland China’s visa requirements.

Applying for a double-entry Chinese visa:

When applying for a Chinese visa from your home country (e.g., UK), you can request a double-entry (or multiple-entry) tourist visa (L visa). This type of visa permits you to enter China, exit to another country such as Taiwan, and re-enter China within the validity period.

The application process is generally the same as for a single-entry visa: fill out the visa form, provide a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and supporting documents such as hotel bookings, travel itinerary, or invitation letters.
When specifying your itinerary on the application, focus only on the China portion of your travel. For example, you would indicate your first week with your friend in China, then the return to China after your Taiwan visit.
It is not necessary to include your Taiwan visit in the Chinese visa application, as Taiwan has its own entry requirements. You will handle your Taiwan entry separately, typically via a Taiwan visa or visa-exemption program depending on your nationality.

Tips and considerations:

Ensure that the dates for your double-entry visa cover the full period you plan to be in China (before and after Taiwan).
Be prepared to show proof of onward travel and accommodation for both entries if requested at the Chinese consulate.
Chinese consulates generally issue double-entry tourist visas without difficulty if your travel plan is clear and documentation is complete. The standard validity is usually 3 months, allowing 30 days per entry, but you can confirm specifics with the consulate.
Arrange your Taiwan portion separately: check visa requirements for your nationality. Many nationalities can visit Taiwan visa-free for short stays, but confirm this in advance.

In summary, you should:

Apply for a double-entry Chinese tourist visa covering the two China visits.
Include only your China itinerary in the application.
Handle Taiwan entry independently.

This approach ensures smooth travel between China and Taiwan without visa issues, and you can enjoy your visits to both your friend and uncle as planned.

Double entry visa for China

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