Thailand-China visa exemption
Thailand and China have a visa exemption agreement for ordinary passport holders on short stays, but study, work or long-term stays still require a visa.
Apply at the visa centre
Chinese visa applications go through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) with documents such as an invitation letter, accommodation confirmation or institutional letter.
Document certification
China joined the Hague Convention in 2023 and Thailand joins in 2027; until then Thai documents used in China still follow the legalisation chain via the Department of Consular Affairs and the Chinese Embassy.
Frequently asked questions
Do tourists need a visa for China?
A short-stay exemption currently applies under the agreement, but check the latest conditions before travelling.
Must every document be translated into Chinese?
It depends on the visa type and the authority using the documents in China.
Which documents should be ready for a Chinese visa?
Usually a completed online form, photo, passport and supporting documents for the purpose of travel, such as an invitation. Requirements depend on visa category.
Send your documents for our translation team to review
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Sources
Reviewed by the translation team at Thai Law & Accounting Services · Last reviewed 4 Oct 2026 · General information, not legal or immigration advice for your specific case