Planning to work, live, study, or do business in China? Understanding the visa and entry process is your first and most crucial step. With complex regulations and different visa types, navigating the system can be overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.
At Wevisa China , operated by Jinhua Tongji Talent Service Co., Ltd. , we specialize in helping foreign nationals obtain the right visa and enter China legally and smoothly. In this complete Visa & Entry Guide , we break down everything you need to know about Chinese visas, application procedures, and what to expect upon arrival.
1. Types of Chinese Visas
China offers several visa categories depending on your purpose of visit. The most common ones include:
✅ Z Visa – Work Visa
For foreign nationals with a job offer in China. Requires a valid Work Permit issued by Chinese authorities before applying.
✅ S1/S2 Visa – Family Reunion Visa
- S1 : For family members joining long-term residents (e.g., spouse, parents, children).
- S2 : For short-term visits (e.g., tourism, family visits under 180 days).
✅ M Visa – Business Visa
For individuals engaging in commercial trade, investment meetings, or business negotiations. Does not allow formal employment.
✅ R Visa – Talents Visa
Designed for high-level professionals, experts, and entrepreneurs recognized as valuable contributors to China’s economy and innovation.
✅ X1/X2 Visa – Study Visa
- X1 : For long-term studies (more than 180 days).
- X2 : For short-term courses or training programs.
✅ Q1/Q2 Visa – Family Visit Visa
- Q1 : For family reunions with Chinese citizens or permanent residents.
- Q2 : For short-term visits to relatives.
✅ C Visa – Crew Visa
For airline, shipping, or train crew members.
✅ Humanitarian Visa (Temporary Entry)
Issued in urgent cases such as medical emergencies, bereavement, or other compassionate grounds.
2. How to Apply for a Chinese Visa
The standard process includes these key steps:
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Identify the correct visa based on your purpose of stay.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Common documents include:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of travel itinerary (flight bookings)
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Supporting documents (e.g., work permit, marriage certificate, school admission)
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your home country or country of residence. Some locations require appointments.
💡 Note: You do not need to be in China to apply for most visas.
Step 4: Pay the Fee
Visa fees range from $30 to $150 , depending on nationality, number of entries, and processing speed.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing time typically takes:
- Standard: 4–5 working days
- Expedited: 2–3 working days (additional fee applies)
3. Special Notes: Work Visa (Z Visa) Process
If you’re coming to work in China, here’s the full workflow:
- Obtain a Work Permit through your employer in China.
- Get a Notification Letter of Work Permit (required for Z Visa application).
- Apply for the Z Visa at a Chinese embassy abroad.
- Enter China with the Z Visa.
- Convert to a Residence Permit within 30 days of arrival (done locally in China).
Wevisa China assists with every step — from securing your Work Permit to guiding you through the residence permit conversion .
4. What Happens Upon Arrival in China?
Once you land in China:
- Present your passport and visa at immigration.
- Fill out an arrival card (if required).
- Go through customs and baggage claim.
If you’re on a Z Visa , remember:
- You must register your accommodation within 24 hours (hotels do this automatically; private rentals require a visit to the local police station).
- Schedule an appointment to apply for your Residence Permit at the Exit-Entry Administration office.
This permit allows you to live and work legally in China for the duration of your contract (usually 1–2 years).
5. Visa Renewals & Extensions
Can’t leave China when your visa expires? Don’t worry — extensions are possible in many cases.
- Business (M), Tourist (L), and Family (S2/Q2) Visas can often be extended for up to 90 additional days.
- Work (Z) and Talents (R) Visas require renewal of both the Work Permit and Residence Permit before expiration.
We recommend starting the renewal process at least 30–60 days before expiry to avoid penalties or legal issues.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying for the wrong visa type
❌ Submitting incomplete or unverified documents
❌ Missing the deadline for residence permit registration
❌ Overstaying your visa (can lead to fines, deportation, or future entry bans)
Our team at Wevisa China helps prevent these errors with expert review and personalized support.
7. Why Choose Wevisa China for Your Visa Needs?
We make the entire visa and entry process simple, fast, and stress-free.
✅ Expert guidance on the correct visa type
✅ Full assistance with document preparation and translation
✅ Support for work permits, invitation letters, and renewals
✅ Multilingual service in Chinese, English, Arabic, and French
✅ Proven success helping hundreds of clients enter and stay in China legally
Start Your Journey to China Today
Whether you’re moving for work, reuniting with family, investing in business, or exploring opportunities as a global talent, having the right visa is the foundation of a successful experience.
📞 Book a free consultation with Wevisa China today and let us guide you through every step — from application to arrival.
Wevisa China – Your Trusted Partner for Visa & Entry Solutions in Mainland China.
Operated by Jinhua Tongji Talent Service Co., Ltd. | Jinhua, Zhejiang Province
