The first thing for getting a visa or checking what proper travel documents you need for travelling to China is to go to the State Department web site and Chinese embassy and consulate web sites.
Typically a visitor visa may need 2-4 weeks’ processing time at corresponding Chinese Consulate. The process can be fairly fast and convenient nowadays and you can apply by mail. Many visa service web sites and companies can also offer fast and convenient services. Local travel and tourist agencies can also provide this service at an additional cost if they have tour or airline booking services to and from China. Check out your local yellow books or search internet sites.
Please see Related Information below for a few useful links.
Related Information: