How to apply for China's barcode invitation letter?

For anyone planning to travel to China for business, work, or family reasons, the barcode invitation letter is a key document required in the visa application process. This guide will provide you with a detailed introduction on how to obtain China's barcode invitation letter.

• 1. What is a Barcode Invitation Letter?

A Barcode Invitation Letter is a formal invitation document issued by Chinese government agencies, companies, or organizations for foreign visitors. It includes a unique barcode to facilitate Chinese consulates in verifying the authenticity of the invitation during visa application reviews. These letters are typically required for certain visa types, such as Business M Visa, Work Z Visa, or Family Visit Q Visa.  

• 2. When is a Barcode Invitation Letter Required?

The Barcode Invitation Letter is essential for most long-term or special-purpose visas. Common scenarios requiring it include:  

-Business Visa (M Visa): For business activities, trade fairs, conferences, or other professional purposes.  

-Work Visa (Z Visa): Required for individuals employed by Chinese employers to work in China; employers usually handle the arrangement.  

-Family Visit Visa (Q or S Visa): For visiting relatives residing in China, especially for long-term stays.  

• 3. Steps to Obtain a Barcode Invitation Letter 

The process for obtaining a Chinese Barcode Invitation Letter is as follows:  

(1)Identify the inviter in China: The inviter can be your employer, business partner, relative, or the organization you plan to visit. Ensure they are aware of the specific details and requirements of your visit.  

(2)Provide necessary information: You need to provide the inviter with the following details:  

   - Full name and passport number  

   - Nationality  

   - Purpose of visit (business, work, family visit)  

   - Estimated travel dates and duration of stay  

(3)Request a barcode invitation letter: The inviter needs to contact the local foreign affairs office or relevant government agency to issue the invitation letter. Chinese companies and organizations are usually familiar with this process, but it may take several days to obtain approval.  

(4)Review the document: After the invitation letter is issued, ask the inviter to send you a scanned copy. Verify that the document includes your details, purpose of visit, inviter’s information, and most importantly, the barcode.  

(5)Submit the visa application: When applying for a visa at the Chinese consulate, submit this barcode invitation letter along with other required documents (such as passport, photos, and a completed visa application form).  

• 4. What Information Should a Barcode Invitation Letter Include? 

A Barcode Invitation Letter must contain the following:  

-Visitor Information: Full name, nationality, passport number, and date of birth.  

-Visit Details: Purpose, intended duration of stay, and applicable itinerary.  

-Inviter Information: Full name of the inviter, company/organization name, address, and contact details.  

-Barcode and Official Seal: The unique barcode identifying the invited person and the official seal from the Chinese inviting company or government agency.  

• 5. Tips for Successfully Obtaining a Barcode Invitation Letter

-Start Early: Request the invitation letter as soon as your travel plans are confirmed, as processing may take several days to a week.  

-Verify Details: Carefully check all information on the invitation letter, as errors may cause delays or issues with the visa application.  

-Maintain Communication with the Inviter: Stay in touch with your Chinese inviter to ensure they complete the request in a timely manner and that you receive the invitation letter before your visa appointment.  

-Consult the Consulate: Confirm specific requirements with the Chinese consulate in your country, as requirements may vary by location.