The Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka has officially announced the launch of a new digital visa application platform, the “China Visa Online Application System”, which will come into effect on 30 June 2025. This major update is aimed at streamlining and modernising the visa application process for all travellers to mainland China.
According to the Embassy spokesperson, applicants will now be required to complete their visa applications online by visiting https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/. The process begins with filling out the form and uploading all necessary documents. Once submitted, the application enters a preliminary review phase. During this stage, applicants can track the progress, modify information, or upload additional materials if needed. Once the application status updates to “Passport to be submitted”, applicants must visit the Embassy in person to provide their passport, required documentation, and biometric data such as fingerprints. The final review will then be conducted, and successful applicants must return to the Embassy to pay visa fees and collect their documents.
To access the new system, all users must register an account using a valid email address. Account creation and login are mandatory before any application can be made. This shift towards a digital-first approach is expected to improve efficiency and provide a more transparent process for applicants.
As for processing times, applicants may still choose between “Normal” and “Express” services when completing the online form. However, this preference only applies after the initial review and upon submission of physical documents. An expedited service fee is required for the faster option, which cannot be refunded even if processing is delayed at the discretion of consular officers. The preliminary online review is expected to take one to three working days, while the final review, following submission of physical documents, will typically require three to four working days. Applicants are advised not to submit their forms too early—ideally two to three weeks ahead of their intended travel date—to avoid processing delays or unnecessary backlog.
Regarding third-party assistance, the Embassy confirmed that it is acceptable for someone else to complete an online application on behalf of an applicant. However, unless the applicant qualifies for fingerprint exemption, they must appear in person to submit biometric data. For those exempt, passports and fee payments may be handled by a representative.
The Embassy also clarified the transition from the previous system. The older application platform will be decommissioned during a scheduled upgrade period between 17:00 on 27 June and 08:00 on 30 June. Any applications submitted during this window will be deemed invalid. Forms completed in the original system before 17:00 on 27 June will still be processed, provided the documents are submitted in person before the deadline. After 30 June, all new applications must follow the updated procedure.
Importantly, the new online system applies only to visas for travel to mainland China. Those applying for entry to Hong Kong or Macao via the Chinese Embassy in Colombo must continue to submit their applications using the current manual procedure.