China recently introduced a new online-first visa application system for applicants in India, aiming to streamline and modernize the visa process. However, shortly after this announcement, the Chinese Visa Application Services Centre (CVASC), Mumbai released another notice stating that visa submissions have been temporarily suspended due to technical issues.

Here is a complete and clear explanation of what has changed and how it affects applicants.

China Introduced an Online-First Visa Application Process

As per the initial update, the China visa application process was shifted to a digital-first model.

Key Highlights of the New Online Process

• All visa application documents must be uploaded online

• VFS service charges must be paid online only

• No offline document submission or cash payments

• Applications are reviewed online by VFS

Once documents are reviewed, applicants receive an email stating:
“Online Review Completed”

After this confirmation, applicants were required to visit the VFS center only to submit:

• Original Passport

• Photograph

• Confirmation Page

Applicants were also advised to keep their travel date at least 20 days later, as document verification timelines were not yet confirmed.

Temporary Suspension Due to Technical Issues (Mumbai)

Following the online-first announcement, the Chinese Visa Application Services Centre, Mumbai issued an official notice dated 5 January 2026.

What Has Been Suspended?

• ❌ Acceptance of online visa applications

• ❌ Acceptance of legalization applications

📅 Effective from: 6 January 2026 (Tuesday)
⏳ Valid until: Further notice
📍 Location: Mumbai Visa Application Centre

The suspension has been implemented due to technical issues, as informed by the Consulate General.

Passport Collection Also Delayed

In addition to the suspension:

• Passport collection for applications with expected dates from 31 December 2025 onwards has been delayed

• No revised collection timeline has been announced yet

• Updates will be shared once services resume

What About Urgent Applications?

Applicants who urgently need to submit their China visa applications can choose:

✅ New Delhi Visa Application Centre
✅ Kolkata Visa Application Centre
These centers remain available for submissions.

What Should Applicants Do Now?

Until further notice, applicants are advised to:

1. Pause new submissions via Mumbai VFS

2. Monitor official announcements regularly

3. Avoid finalizing travel dates and non-refundable bookings

4. Use Delhi or Kolkata centers if travel is time-sensitive

5. Keep sufficient buffer time for visa processing

How Embrace Earth Travels Can Help

At Embrace Earth Travels, we keep track of every official visa update and help our clients:

• Understand policy changes clearly

• Choose the right VFS center

• Plan business, trade fair, and leisure travel smartly

• Avoid unnecessary delays and losses

Conclusion

While China has taken a major step by introducing an online-first visa application process, the system has been temporarily suspended in Mumbai due to technical issues. Applicants are advised to stay alert and plan their applications carefully until services resume.

For verified updates and expert visa assistance, stay connected with Embrace Earth Travels.