To further facilitate visa applications, Chinese visa authorities will exempt applicants from fingerprint collection for short-term visas (for stays not exceeding 180 days) effective immediately through 31 December 2026.

Fingerprint collection remains mandatory for applicants of D, J1, Q1, S1, X1, and Z visas, who are required to apply for residence permits after entering China.

Chinese Embassy in Zambia

December 23, 2025