Does China issue 10-year visas for U.S. citizens?

Yes, as of now, China issues 10‑year multiple-entry visas to U.S. citizens—a policy designed to simplify travel for tourism, business, and family visits. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

🛂 1. What’s the 10‑Year Visa?

Type & Validity: Eligible U.S. citizens can obtain a 10‑year, multiple-entry visa for categories including:
- Tourist (L)
- Business (M)
- Family visit (Q2)
- Private visit (S2)
  Stay per Entry:
- Tourist/Business (L/M): up to 60 days per visit
- Private Visit (S2): typically 120 days
- Family Visit (Q2): typically 90 days (up to 180 days in special cases) (Wikipedia)

2. 📋 Eligibility & Fees

Who Qualifies:
- U.S., Canada, UK, Argentina, Israel, and Brazil nationals are eligible
Fees:
- Current cost is usually $140–$150 for U.S. citizens, the same as shorter‑term visas. Recent U.S. fee estimated at $140.
Cancelled Quarantine:
- Since March 2023, pre-COVID long‑term visa holders can return without quarantine.

3. Why Apply?

Convenience: No need to reapply for visas for each trip across a full decade.

Cost-effective: Single payment covers multiple visits—savings over time.

Stability: Ideal for frequent travelers, businesspeople, or those with family in China.

4. 📝 Application Requirements

Similar to standard visas, with these additions:

Passport: Valid for >1 year at application, with ≥2 empty pages.
Visa Application Form: Indicate the 10‑year option.
Photo ID: Standard passport‑style photograph.
Supporting Documents:
- Tourist (L): hotel bookings/travel itinerary OR invitation letter.
- Business (M): official Chinese enterprise invitation letter.
- Family/Private (Q2/S2): invitation letter plus inviter’s Chinese passport or residence permit.

5. Post-Pandemic & Extensions

COVID Interruption: Entry using long‑term visas was paused from Mar 2020 to Mar 2023
Extensions: Holders of pre‑2020 10‑year visas may be eligible for a free 3‑year extension or reapplication

⚠️ Important Notes

No Work Authorization: The visa permits business visits but not employment. Working requires a separate Z‑work visa.
Dual-Passport Handling: If your passport expires but your visa is still valid, you can travel using both new and old passports—info must match.
Transit vs Tourist: In addition to the long‑term visa, U.S. citizens can often enter China under a 10‑day visa‑free transit scheme, but that’s separate from the 10‑year visa.

✅ Fast Facts Table

Feature	Details
Validity	10 years, multiple entries
Stay limits	60d (L/M), 120d (S2), 90–180d (Q2)
Fee (U.S.)	~$140–150 (same as short-term visas)
Application	In‑person or via a visa center
Work?	Not permitted; use a Z visa instead

🎯 Should You Apply?

Frequent Visitors: If you plan multiple trips over the next decade—for tourism, business, or family—this visa is a smart move.
Occasional Travelers: Might opt for shorter-term visas or use visa‑free transit for brief visits.

Final Thoughts

China’s 10‑year multiple-entry visa for U.S. citizens offers long-term flexibility, cost savings, and peace of mind. Whether you’re planning annual business trips, visiting family, or exploring China’s rich culture over time, securing this visa simplifies travel planning and avoids repeat applications.

If you'd like help with applying or want advice on required documents for a specific visa type, feel free to ask at Support@peninsualvisa.com!