Tourists who want to visit China have three choices. First, they can contact travel agencies in China; second, they can go to Chinese travel agents abroad; third, they can go to foreign travel services that maintain business relations with Chinese travel companies.

After reaching an agreement with a Chinese travel agency over details of the proposed trip, the next step is to apply for a visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate with the confirmation letter issued by the travel agency. Foreigners can only be admitted to China with valid visas.

Individual tourists can apply for a visa with their round-trip ticket and hotel reservation sheet.