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2 ways to enter

China visas

China student visa

The X1 visa covers study lasting more than 180 days. The X2 visa covers study lasting no more than 180 days.

Ways to get a China student visa

  1. X1 long-term study visa

    Visa needed

    People intending to study in China for more than 180 days.

    Stay
    Intended study of more than 180 days.
    1. Complete and sign the visa application form.
    2. Submit your passport and required supporting documents.
    3. Apply for a local residence permit within 30 days of entry, unless the visa's permitted stay is marked as 30 days.
  2. X2 short-term study visa

    Visa needed

    People intending to study in China for no more than 180 days.

    Stay
    Intended study of no more than 180 days.
    1. Complete and sign the visa application form.
    2. Submit your passport and required supporting documents through the appropriate application service.

Who needs it

People going to mainland China to study use an X1 or X2 visa, depending on the length of study.

How to apply

  1. Choose X1 or X2 based on the length of study.
  2. Complete the visa application form on a computer and sign it.
  3. Submit your passport and required supporting documents through the appropriate application service.

What to bring

  • Passport.
  • Completed and signed application form.
  • Invitation letter from a mainland China resident or organisation.

Good to know

  • X1 holders must apply for a residence permit at the local public security bureau within 30 days of entry, unless the visa's permitted stay is marked as 30 days.
  • Register your accommodation if staying for more than 24 hours.
  • Hainan's 30-day visa-free scheme does not cover study.

Questions

Do I need a student visa for China?

People going to mainland China to study use an X1 or X2 visa, depending on the length of study.

What are the ways to get a student visa for China?

There are 2 options: X1 long-term study visa (a visa from an embassy); X2 short-term study visa (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a China student visa?

X1: intended study of more than 180 days. X2: intended study of no more than 180 days.

What documents do I need for a China student visa?

Passport.; Completed and signed application form.; Invitation letter from a mainland China resident or organisation..

How do I apply for a China student visa?

1. 1. Choose X1 or X2 based on the length of study. 2. 2. Complete the visa application form on a computer and sign it. 3. 3. Submit your passport and required supporting documents through the appropriate application service.

What rules do I have to follow on a China student visa?

X1 holders must apply for a residence permit at the local public security bureau within 30 days of entry, unless the visa's permitted stay is marked as 30 days. Register your accommodation if staying for more than 24 hours.

Does my passport change whether I need a student visa for China?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the China visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a student visa for China be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest China student visa rules?

On China's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my student visa once I am in China?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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