How to... get a private invitation letter for a tourist visa

Tourists who wish to stay with friends or relatives in China (as opposed to those staying at a hotel) are sometimes required to hand in additional information about their hosts.

This includes

• copy of the hosts' police registration
• copy of the hosts' passport
• copy of the hosts' visa page
• copy of the hosts' employment license
• work and private address in English and Chinese
• personal invitation letter (click here to download a template)

Chinese embassies in some countries will only allow tourists to stay at private accomodation if they are directly related to the applicant and may, in rare cases, require a proof of kinship.

For tourists staying with friends in China, please note you need to register with the local police station within 24 hours upon your arrival.