China Fingerprint-Exemption Extended for Short-Term Visa Applicants

Key Point  

• China extended its fingerprint‑collection exemption for short‑term visa applicants through 31 December 2026 at consular posts in select countries  

Fingerprint Collection for Short-Term Visas 

China has extended and expanded its fingerprint‑exemption policy for visa applicants. Effective immediately and continuing through 31 December 2026, all applicants applying for short‑term visas with stays of up to 180 days are exempt from fingerprint collection. 

This exemption applies at Chinese consular posts in: 

• Australia 
• Canada 
• Croatia  
• Ireland 
• India  
• Macao SAR 
• Malaysia  
• New Zealand 
• The Palestinian Territories 
• Singapore 
• The United Kingdom 

Third‑country nationals applying at these consulates are also eligible for the exemption. 

Applicants for D, J1, Q1, S1, X1 and Z visas, all categories requiring a residence permit after entry, must still provide fingerprints in accordance with Chinese regulations. 

The notice also highlights that, in locations where Chinese visa centers permit third-party submission, eligible applicants may authorize a representative to submit their visa applications on their behalf, thereby eliminating the need for an in-person appearance and reducing processing time and travel costs. 

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