On May 16, 2012 (Wednesday), the updated visa application requirements, as follows, will take into effect. Failure to meet the requirements will lead to delay or refusal of a visa.

I. Application for tourist /family visit visa (L-visa) must provide the following supporting documents:

A. Invitation letter from a Chinese organization or a permanent resident in China; or

B. Air ticket booking record (round trip) and hotel reservation.

II. Application for business visa (F-visa) must provide the following supporting documents:

A. Invitation Letter issued by a duly authorized unit in China (referring to the form of visa notification issued by the Chinese governmental departments, companies and social organizations authorized by the Chinese Foreign Ministry); or

B. Invitation cards of various kinds of trade fairs (original or copy); or

C. Letter of invitation issued by a state-owned enterprise, collectively-owned enterprise, joint venture, solely-owned or private enterprise and educational, cultural and scientific institutions, and conference sponsors or hosts (original or fax).

Ⅲ. The photo attached to the visa application form must be a color passport photo taken within 6 months (full face, front view and against a white background). A home-shot photo or a photo taken at an express photo booth will not be accepted.

Consular Office of the Chinese Embassy in Canada

May 7, 2012