India–China Relations See Procedural Easing as Beijing Introduces Digital Visa Platform

China has launched an online visa system for Indian applicants, cutting paperwork and consulate visits. The portal supports tourist, business, student, and work visas, enables digital submissions, biometric scheduling, application tracking, and INR payments. The move aligns with gradual India–China normalisation, alongside resumed flights, eased visas, and renewed people-to-people exchanges.

The Chinese Embassy in India has rolled out a new online visa application system aimed at simplifying the process for Indian travelers seeking entry into China. The digital platform allows applicants to complete most formalities online, significantly reducing paperwork and the need for repeated visits to Chinese consulates.

As reported by PTI and cited by the Shenzhen-based Greater Bay Area (GBA) online portal, Indian passport holders can now submit visa applications through the China Online Visa Application System. The portal supports multiple visa categories, including tourist, business, student, and employment visas. Applicants are able to fill out application forms, upload supporting documents, and book biometric appointments digitally.

Under the new system, in-person interaction with consulates has been cut down from two visits to just one, which is required solely for biometric data collection. The platform also offers real-time tracking of applications, giving applicants greater transparency into the status of their submissions. The Chinese Embassy had earlier indicated via its official WeChat account that the service would become operational from December 22, directing applicants to the designated portal for detailed guidance.

Another key feature of the system is the option to pay visa fees in Indian rupees. This integration is expected to help applicants avoid additional costs linked to currency conversion and foreign exchange charges, according to the GBA report.

The introduction of the online visa facility comes against the backdrop of incremental efforts by New Delhi and Beijing to stabilise and rebuild bilateral relations. These steps follow last year’s disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, which marked a turning point after prolonged military tensions.

Earlier this month, Indian authorities announced measures to fast-track business visas for Chinese professionals, while clarifying that established security and verification processes would continue. India had also reinstated tourist visas for Chinese citizens in July, ending a suspension that had been in place since the border standoff that began in May 2020.

In recent months, both countries have signalled a willingness to restore people-to-people exchanges and institutional links. Agreed initiatives include the revival of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, the resumption of direct air services, plans to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, and broader steps to facilitate travel. Direct flights between India and China were restored in October, adding momentum to the gradual normalisation of ties.