Visa Application FAQs

Q: Does Lotus Travel accept visa applications from all 50 states?
A: Yes. We accept applications from all 50 states. Non-citizens with a permanent residence card (Green card) can also apply through us.

Q: Does the Chinese Consulate accept applications by mail?
A: No. All applications should be submitted either in person or via a visa service courier.

Q: When should China travelers apply for visas?
A: Since the visas issued by the Chinese Consulate at Los Angeles are valid for six months from the issue date, applicants could start applying three months before departure or shortly after the receipt of an adoption referral.

Q: What documents are required for adult applicants?
A: A signed and completed application form, one 2”x2” standard passport photo with a clear and white background and the original American passport. Former Chinese citizens need to submit their original Chinese passports unless there is proof of a prior issued visa.

Q: What documents are required for applicants who are 12 and under?
A: Children who are American born need to submit a copy of the birth certificate in addition to the application form, passport photo and the original American passport. For Chinese born children, a copy of the Chinese birth certificate and the original Chinese passport are also required.

Q: Should children sign their own applications?
A: Parents are recommended to sign for their kids. Please sign your child’s name and put by mother or by father right next to the signature.

Q: How can non-American citizens apply for visas?
A: The applicant needs to submit a signed and completed application form, the original birth country passport and a copy of the permanent residence card.

Q: How long is the visa application process?
A: 10 to 14 regular days for regular processing and expedited process takes around 4 to 7 regular days. Lotus Travel’s visa department will return all passports via Fedex.

Q: How long can the traveler stay in China?
A: A maximum of 30 days.

Q: Where should applicants send their application packages? What kinds of payments are accepted?
A: Please send all application materials to Lotus Travel’s Bellevue office. Address information can be found here. Only checks and money orders are accepted; be sure to make them payable to Lotus Travel.