Indonesian Traveler's Guide: Securing Your China Visa

For Indonesians planning a trip to China, securing a visa is a crucial first step. Besides a passport, a China visa is a mandatory document for Indonesian citizens visiting the country. Before embarking on your adventure to the Land of the Red Dragon, it's important to fulfill the requirements and procedures set by the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia. 

This guide offers detailed information on the different types of visas available for China, including the necessary documents and a step-by-step application process. By following this guide, you can streamline your visa application and enhance your chances of successfully obtaining a visa to China.

Visa-Free Countries and Regions for China

While most international travelers need a visa to visit China, some countries have a visa-free agreement with China. This allows their citizens to visit China for a short time without a visa. However, most travelers still need a visa. Only certain countries and regions have this privilege for specific durations. Here's a quick overview:

Do Indonesian Citizens Need a Visa to Visit China? 

Yes, as an Indonesian citizen, you must obtain a visa to travel to China. China enforces strict visa regulations, requiring almost all international visitors to secure a visa before entering the country. 

Unfortunately, Indonesia is not among the nations that can visit China without a visa for a specified period. To get a visa, you need to apply through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Indonesia. Be sure to review the current visa requirements and submit the necessary documents as per the guidelines. 

Typically, you will need to complete an application form and provide documents such as your passport, a photo, flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and financial statements demonstrating your ability to support your stay in China. It's important to apply for your visa well in advance to ensure you have a valid visa before your planned departure date to China.

How Indonesian Apply for a Chinese Tourist Visa

The following are the basic steps for Indonesian citizens to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) to China. Although the process is straightforward, the requirements may be subject to adjustments due to regulatory updates.

1. Determine Visa Type

• Apply for a Tourist Visa (L Visa) for purposes like sightseeing or visiting relatives.

2. Prepare Required Documents

• Basic Documents:
• • Original passport (valid for at least 6 months) + photocopy.
  • Completed China Visa Application Form (filled online and printed).
  • Recent white-background color passport photo (48mm×33mm).
  • Round-trip flight itinerary + hotel reservations OR invitation letter from a Chinese host (with their ID copy).
  • Financial proof (e.g., 3-month bank statements, deposit certificates).
• Additional Documents (if applicable):
• • Group tours: Travel agency itinerary.
  • Visiting relatives: Proof of relationship + host’s ID/residence permit copy.

3. Submit Application

• Book an appointment online via the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (Indonesia) website: www.visaforchina.cn.
• Submit materials in person at the Jakarta or Surabaya Visa Center (fingerprints may be required).

4. Pay Fees & Collect Visa

• Fees: Standard processing (~4 working days) costs approximately IDR 1,200,000 (confirm on the official website). Expedited service available for extra fees.
• Collection: Pick up in person or via mail (if offered).

5. Key Notes

• No Visa-Free Entry: Indonesian citizens are not eligible for China’s transit visa-free policies.
• Health Requirements: No COVID-19 vaccination proof is currently required, but check updates before travel.
• Validity: Single/multiple-entry options; usual stay duration is 30 days (subject to approval).

How Can Indonesians Apply for a Business (M) Visa?

Indonesian citizens traveling to China for business purposes (e.g., meetings, conferences, or contract negotiations) must apply for an M Visa.

1. Key Requirements:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages).
• Completed visa application form with a recent passport-sized photo.
• Invitation letter from a Chinese company/organization (including company stamp, contact details, and purpose/duration of visit).
• Business license of the inviting Chinese company (copy).
• Employer letter from your Indonesian company confirming your role and travel purpose.

2. Fees (IDR):

• Single Entry: 1,100,000
• Double Entry: 1,400,000
• Multiple Entries (6+ months): 2,000,000

3. Processing Time:

Standard: 4–5 working days (expedited options available).

4. Application Steps:

• Submit documents at a China Visa Application Center in Jakarta, Surabaya, or Medan.
• Pay fees in IDR or USD (converted at the center’s rate).

How to Apply for a China Transit Visa For Indonesian Citizens

For Indonesian citizens transiting through China, it’s crucial to understand whether you qualify for visa-free transit (TWOV) or need to apply for a mandatory transit visa (G Visa). This guide provides tailored steps for Indonesians, including document preparation, application procedures, and key tips. 

Step 1: Check Visa-Free Transit (TWOV) Eligibility

1. Transit Duration:

2. • 24-Hour TWOV: Applies if you stay within the international transit area of a Chinese airport.
   • 72/144-Hour TWOV: Not available for Indonesian citizens. You must apply for a transit visa (G Visa) if you plan to leave the airport.

2. 24-Hour Visa-Free Transit:

3. • No visa is required if you stay in the international transit zone and depart within 24 hours.
   • Ensure your onward flight ticket is confirmed and within the 24-hour window.

Step 2: If You Need a Transit Visa (G Visa)

Required Documents:

• Passport: Valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages.
• Completed Visa Application Form: Fill online, print single-sided, and sign.
  (Download the form here)
• Passport Photo: 48mm×33mm, white background, no glasses.
• Flight Itinerary: Shows transit in China and final destination.
• Destination Visa (if required): Copy of your visa for the next country (e.g., US, Schengen).

Application Process:

1. Visit a China Visa Application Center in Indonesia:
2. • Locations: Jakarta (China Visa Application Service Center) or consulates in Surabaya/Medan.
   • Book an appointment online: https://www.visaforchina.cn.
2. Submit Documents: Bring originals and photocopies.
3. Visa Fee:
4. • Transit Visa (G Visa): IDR 650,000–900,000 (varies by processing time).
   • Processing: 4–5 working days.

Step 3: Key Tips for Indonesian Applicants

1. Choose the Right Transit Airport:
2. • For 24-hour visa-free transit, do not exit the international zone (e.g., transit from Soekarno-Hatta to Beijing Capital Airport en route to Europe).
2. Avoid Common Mistakes:
3. • Apply for a G Visa if transiting over 24 hours or leaving the airport.
   • Confirm requirements with your airline or travel agent if unsure.
3. Additional Documents:
4. • Prepare proof of accommodation in China (if staying over 24 hours).
   • Carry copies of your passport and flight tickets.

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China Visa Fees for Indonesian Citizens (Updated 2024)

Below is the official visa fee structure for Indonesian applicants, based on the latest information from the China Visa Application Service Center in Indonesia. Fees vary by visa type, entry frequency, and processing speed.

Processing Time & Additional Fees

1. Regular Service:
2. • 4–5 working days (no extra charge).
2. Express Service:
3. • 3 working days (+IDR 300,000).
3. Urgent Service:
4. • 2 working days (+IDR 500,000).

China Visa for Indonesian Travelers – Final Summary

For Indonesian travelers planning a trip to China, securing the appropriate visa is straightforward with careful preparation. Always verify requirements on the official website before applying, and consider booking flights and hotels through platforms like Trip.com for seamless travel planning. With the right documents and timely submission, Indonesian travelers can efficiently obtain their visas and focus on enjoying China’s rich cultural experiences. Safe travels!