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Country guide

UK Visa for Chinese Citizens

Largest source of UK Student visas — over 100,000 applicants per year.

No TB test
Full visa always required
7 VFS centres
Overview

Applying for a UK visa from China

China remains the single biggest source of UK Student visas. Most applicants are headed to Russell Group universities for undergraduate or master's programmes. Skilled Worker and Visitor routes are also common. Applications are processed through VFS centres in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing.

This guide is being expanded. For the most detailed information, see the relevant visa route page linked below or our latest blog guides.

Top routes

Best visa routes for Chinese applicants

The most-used UK visa routes by Chinese applicants, ordered by volume.

  1. 1
    Student · from £558
    Largest Student visa source country.
  2. 2
    Graduate · from £937
    18-month post-study route.
  3. 3
    Skilled Worker · from £819
    Finance, IT and engineering roles.
  4. 4
    Standard Visitor · from £135
    Business and tourism.
Where to apply

Visa application centres

Biometric enrolment is mandatory. Book your appointment at the closest VFS centre after submitting your online application.

Beijing
Shanghai
Guangzhou
Chongqing
Shenyang
Wuhan
Hangzhou
What to watch

Country-specific notes for Chinese applicants

  • No TB test required.
  • Financial evidence in CNY must be converted to GBP using OANDA closing rates from the application date.
  • Tier 4 priority service available at all centres.

Not sure which route fits?

Take our 60-second eligibility quiz to find the right UK visa route based on your situation.

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