India to Reinstate Tourist Visas for Chinese Nationals After 5-Year Suspension

India is set to welcome Chinese tourists back starting July 24, 2025. This move ends a five-year pause linked to border tensions and the pandemic. Here’s what you need to know about the visa process and requirements.

India is officially reopening its doors to Chinese travelers. From July 24, Chinese nationals can apply for tourist visas to visit India, as announced by the Indian Embassy in Beijing. This decision follows a significant five-year suspension due to strained bilateral relations.

The Indian Embassy shared the details on Weibo, explaining the step-by-step application process for potential travelers.

Why India Suspended Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens

The suspension began in 2020 during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, India halted all tourist visas but continued to restrict Chinese citizens even after reopening to others. The freeze was extended as diplomatic tensions escalated, particularly after the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. The fallout included:

• Invalidating Chinese tourist visas in April 2022
• Banning dozens of Chinese apps
• Halting direct flights between India and China
• Imposing restrictions on Chinese investments
• Additionally, China’s delay in allowing over 22,000 Indian students to return to Chinese universities further strained relations.

New Indian Tourist Visa Process for Chinese Nationals

Chinese citizens can apply for tourist visas by following a clear procedure:

• Online Application: Complete the Indian tourist visa application form online and print it.
• Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment for document submission.
• In-Person Submission: Visit one of the designated Indian Visa Application Centres in Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou to submit documents.

Applicants must provide their applications in person, allowing officials to capture biometrics and ensure thorough document reviews for a secure process.

Basic Requirements for Chinese Citizens Applying for an Indian Tourist Visa

To ensure a successful application, prepare the following documents:

• Valid Passport
• Completed Application Form
• Copy of Chinese ID Card
• Recent Photograph
• Proof of Travel
• Bank Statement or Financial Guarantee
• Detailed Travel Itinerary
• Financial Undertaking

Note: All documents must be submitted in person, and incomplete applications will be rejected. Typically, visa processing takes around three working days after all required documents are submitted.

Where to Apply

Chinese citizens can apply for an Indian tourist visa by:

• Completing the online application form
• Booking an appointment

Personally submitting their passport and documents at Visa Application Centres in:

• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Guangzhou

What This Means for Travel Between India and China

Reopening tourist visas signifies a step toward post-pandemic travel recovery. It opens up fresh opportunities for tourism, business, education, and spiritual visits between the two countries. China’s large outbound travel market is expected to bounce back in 2025, giving Indian tour operators and hotels a chance to attract more visitors.

Final Thoughts

India’s decision to reinstate tourist visas for Chinese citizens is more than just a procedural change; it signals a desire to rebuild relationships and revive cultural exchanges. For eager Chinese tourists, the opportunity to explore India’s rich history and spirituality is now within reach once again.