Overview
The Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Paris manages the Sino-French bilateral relationship — one of China's most important in Europe. France was the first major Western country to establish full diplomatic relations with the People's Republic (1964). The embassy coordinates consulates general in Marseille, Lyon and Strasbourg. France is a major destination for Chinese tourists (the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, Provence and the French Riviera draw millions), and bilateral trade covers luxury goods, aerospace (Airbus), wine and spirits, nuclear energy, automotive and agriculture. The Chinese community in France is one of the largest in Europe.
Visa Services
The consular section at 20 Rue Washington, 75008 Paris, oversees visa policy. Most applicants are directed to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC). Consular protection: +33 6 1574 2537.
Consular Services
Passport renewal, document legalisation, notarisation and emergency assistance for Chinese nationals. Consular protection: +33 6 1574 2537.
Trade & Export Support
France-China bilateral trade covers luxury goods (LVMH, Hermès, Chanel compete with Airbus for the largest French export categories to China), wine and Cognac, nuclear energy technology (EDF, Framatome), aerospace (Airbus), automotive (Stellantis) and agricultural products. The Chinese community's purchasing power drives substantial retail trade in Paris.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Cultural Section and Confucius Institutes at French universities promote Chinese language and culture. Paris is a major hub for the Chinese-European diaspora. The Quartier Chinois in the 13th arrondissement is one of Europe's largest Chinatowns. Academic exchange between French and Chinese universities is extensive.
Service Area
The embassy covers the Île-de-France region and departments not covered by the consulates in Marseille, Lyon and Strasbourg.
Appointment Information
Chancellery: 20 Rue Monsieur, 75007. Consular section: 20 Rue Washington, 75008. Phone: +33 1 4952 1950. Consular protection: +33 6 1574 2537.