As a result of the introduction of biometric visas, for which fingerprints are now required, each applicant must appear in person at the visa center as of 12.01.2021. The submission of fingerprints are valid for 5 years, provided that with the same passport on the same visa center is applied. Thus, AVS can fully recover the subsequent visa applications (within the 5 years). Appointments at the Visa Center are from Monday to Friday in the morning. There are no appointments possible in the afternoon.
At the time of application, AVS can meet the applicants at the Visa Center so that only the fingerprints must be submitted by the applicants - we can continue to carry out the rest of the process (see Guideline).
This regulation is according to the representation of China temporary and valid until 31.12.2023:
Until 31.12.2023, business and tourist visa with one or two entries can be applied through us in representation. This means that you can send us the following documents listed per visa type by mail and the applicant does not have to appear in person to submit fingerprints at the visa center of China in Zurich or Bern.
Multiple entry visas, work visas and other categories still require fingerprinting at a Chinese visa center. We will be happy to book your appointment for you.
PRE-INFORMATION Christmas / New Year 2023/2024:
The AVS Office in Kloten will be closed from 23.12.2023 - 02.01.2024.
Last day of acceptance in 2023 for
- Standard applications is 18.12.2023 with return shipment on 21. Dec 2023
- Express requests is 19.12.2023 with return shipping on 21. Dec 2023
- Urgent requests is 20.12.2023 with return shipment on 21. Dec 2023
Business / Visa type M / trade
Tourist
Family visit non chinese citizen
Family visit chinese citizen
Work-Visa (NOT FOR BUSINESS-VISITS)
Student
Before departure to China, it is mandatory to fill out a declaration
Standard: 5 working days
Express: 2 - 3 working days