To further enhance the efficiency of visa applications and optimize service processes, Chinese Visa Application Service Center (Athens)  will implement an online processing system through the Our Center’s website. For details, please refer to the official announcement on the website of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Athens.

 Starting from *March 31*, all applicants (excluding those applying for visas to Hong Kong, China and Macao, China) must first fill out the application form and submit the required materials online. Only after the online review is approved can proceed to Our Center to submit their documents.

To ensure a smooth system upgrade, Our Center plans to upgrade its system from 9 AM on March 29 to 9 PM on March 30 During this upgrade period, it is recommended to pause online form filling to avoid data loss. Applicants who have already filled out forms on the existing website can still submit their applications in person at Our Center before March 28.

## Visa Application Process After Upgrading to Visa Online Processing System:

1. Prepare Visa Application Materials:

   - Basic materials and other supporting documents.

2. Complete the Online Visa Application:

   - Visit the [Chinese Visa Application Service Center website (www.visaforchina.cn) and find the Athens Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

   - Register and log in, fill out the Visa Application Form online, upload the required materials, and submit for initial review. All applicants (excluding those applying for visas to Hong Kong, China and Macao , China ) must complete this step online.

   *Important Reminder*:

   After submitting your application online, Chinese embassy in Athens or Our Center may request further materials at any time. Please check the "Application Progress Inquiry" regularly to monitor your application status.

3. Submit Passport and Payment at Our Center:

   - When the status of the order changes to "Passport to be Submitted" and you have received a confirmation email, bring the printed Visa Application Receipt to Our Center during business hours (9 AM to 1 PM on weekdays).

   Required materials include:

   - Original passport.

   - One recent photo (within 6 months, bareheaded wear, color, size: 48mm × 33mm).

   - The original documents required in the visa application instructions.

   - Other supporting materials as specified.

   Applicants must provide ten fingerprints at Our Center. The following applicants are exempt from fingerprinting:

   - Individuals under 14 or over 70 years old.

   - Apply for the same passport at the Athens Chinese Visa Application Service Center within five years individuals who have obtained visas and retained fingerprints.

   - Individuals with missing or unusable fingerprints.

   - All short-term visa applicants (staying for less than 180 days) who apply for one or two entries to Chinese overseas visa agencies will be exempt from fingerprint collection before December 31, 2025.

   *Important Note*: Applicants must appear in person for fingerprinting. Any impersonation will result in denial of entry to mainland China and associated consequences.

4. Collect Visa:

   - Applicants can collect their Visa at the designated time by presenting the receipt issued at the time of application submission.

Chinese Visa Application Service Center in ATHENS

March 17, 2025