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What Happened to the Chinese Consulate in Houston?
The Chinese Consulate General in Houston was permanently closed in July 2020. Since then, residents in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida must apply China visa through a different location.
Where Can You Apply for a China Visa Now?
If you’re based in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida and Puerto Rico (including Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Little Rock, New Orleans, Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta ), you must now apply through the:
China Embassy visa section in Washington, D.C. :
Address: 2201 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 110, Washington, D.C. 20007
This embassy now handles visa applications for all former Houston consular states and districts.
How to Apply for a China Visa from former Houston Consulate jurisdiction) (2025 Guide)
You have two main options:
✅ Option 1: Apply in Person at the Washington D.C. Embassy
- Fill out the COVA Online Application Form
Visit the COVA website and complete the form. Select “Washington, D.C.” as your application location. - Print and Sign the Application
Print the full application and sign it. Also download and complete the “Visa Confirmation Page.” - Gather Required Documents
If you apply Tourist visa (L), checklist usually include:- Your original U.S. passport and one copy passport information page.
- Proof of residence in Texas (such as a driver’s license or utility bill or bank statement)
- Where you stay form
- Invitation letter: for business visa(M) or Family visit visa(Q1/Q1/S1/S2) or non-business visa(F)
- Submit Documents in Person
Visit the Washington, D.C. embassy in person or send someone to submit on your behalf. From October 23, 2023, Appointments are not required for visa drop-off and pick up in US.
🚚 Option 2: Use a Professional China Visa Agency like China Visa Net.
If traveling to D.C. is not convenient, you can use a trusted visa service like China Visa Net that will:
- All inclusive China Visa service including form filling, photo edit and all necessary paper work.
- 3-5 days fast turnaround
- Check your documents for accuracy to prevent errors and avoid unnecessary delays.
- Submit them to the embassy visa section in D.C. on your behalf
- Pick up your passport and mail it back to you
Important: Can I Mail My Passport Directly to the Embassy?
No. China embassy and consulates do not accept mailed visa applications . You must either apply in person or use an authorized agency like China Visa Net.
Pros and Cons of Each Option
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| In-Person at Embassy | No agency fees | Travel costs & time needed |
| Use China Visa Net | Fast, convenient, no paper work, no travel to Consulate | Agency service fees apply |
Final Thoughts
Although the Chinese Consulate in Houston is permanently closed, it’s still easy to get your China visa by applying through the Washington, D.C. embassy visa section. Whether you go in person or use a reliable agency like China Visa Net, the process remains straightforward if you follow the latest guidelines.
Need help applying?
Visit our homepage at China Visa Net — We specialize in helping U.S. residents get their China visa with all -inclusive service, fast, accurately, and stress-free.
