Chinese Embassy to Launch New Online Visa Processing System in Sri Lanka from June 30, 2025

The Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka will officially roll out a new Online Visa Processing System on June 30, 2025, aiming to streamline and enhance the visa application process for all applicants.

From this date onwards, all visa applications must be submitted online via the upgraded system at https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/. Applicants can fill out forms, upload required documents, and monitor application status online, significantly reducing paperwork and processing time.

Key Features and Guidelines:

• Account Registration: Applicants must register using an email address before beginning the application.
• Application Process:
  1. Complete the online form and upload required documents.
  2. Application enters preliminary review, which typically takes 1–3 working days.
  3. When status changes to “Passport to be submitted”, applicants must:
     • Visit the Chinese Embassy in person,
     • Submit original passport and documents,
     • Provide biometric information (e.g., fingerprints).
  4. Application then proceeds to the final review stage, taking an additional 3–4 working days.
• Express Service: Applicants can opt for “Normal” or “Express” processing. Express service speeds up only the post-preliminary phase and involves additional fees, which are non-refundable even if delays occur.
• Important Dates:
  • The system will be offline from 5:00 p.m. on June 27 to 8:00 a.m. on June 30 for upgrades.
  • Applications submitted during this period will be invalid.
  • Forms submitted through the previous system before June 27 will remain valid, and in-person submissions under the old process will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on June 27.
• Fingerprint Collection: Mandatory for most applicants after preliminary approval unless exempt. Exempt individuals may authorize a third party to handle document submission and visa collection.
• Application Timing: Applicants are advised to apply two to three weeks before travel to avoid delays. Submitting applications too early (e.g., more than a month ahead) may lead to processing issues.

Note: This system applies only to visa applications for mainland China.

For further information or inquiries, contact the Chinese Embassy’s Consular Office at:

• Phone: +94-112676658
• Email: [email protected]

Visit https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/ for complete details and instructions.