Choose the right China visa for your situation

The interactive page asks whether you will study, join a foreign family member, or take a job, then identifies a likely visa route for you to verify.

X1 visa

For study lasting more than 180 days. Official guidance requires the admission letter and the study-in-China certification document, commonly Form JW201 or JW202.

X2 visa

For study lasting no more than 180 days. The admission notice is a core supporting document.

S1 and S2 visas

These private-affairs routes cover qualifying family members joining or visiting a foreigner who studies or works in China. The relationship and 180-day line determine the likely category.

After entering on X1

Follow university arrival instructions and apply for a study residence permit at the local exit-entry authority within 30 days of entry. Off-campus work or internships require university approval and the appropriate residence-permit remark.

Start with the official China Online Visa Application portal, then verify with the National Immigration Administration and the Chinese mission serving your place of residence.