By GradGate Admissions Team3 min read
Once you have an admission letter, the last major step is your student visa. China has two student visa types, and choosing the wrong one creates problems after you arrive.
X1 or X2?
| X1 visa | X2 visa | |
|---|---|---|
| Length of study | More than 180 days (degree programmes, long language courses) | 180 days or less (short courses, exchanges) |
| After arrival | Apply for a residence permit within 30 days | No residence permit; stay within the visa’s duration |
| Typical entries | Single entry | As stated on the visa |
Almost every degree student needs an X1 visa.
Documents for an X1 application
- Passport valid for at least six months, with blank visa pages.
- Completed visa application form and a recent passport photo.
- Original admission letter from your university.
- The JW201 form (government scholarship students) or JW202 form (other students), issued by your university.
- Any additional documents your embassy or visa centre requires, such as proof of residence.
How to apply
Apply at the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence, or at a Chinese Visa Application Service Center where one operates. Book an appointment as soon as your documents arrive; processing commonly takes a few working days, but allow extra time before the start of semester when demand peaks.
After arrival: the 30-day residence permit rule
An X1 visa is a single entry to China. Within 30 days of arrival you must apply for a residence permit at the local Exit-Entry Administration, usually with your university’s help. Many cities also require a health check at a designated clinic first. The residence permit replaces your visa as your right to stay and lets you leave and re-enter China during your studies.
Rules to respect while studying
- Register your address with the local police within 24 hours if you live off campus.
- Do not work or take an internship without authorisation from your university and the immigration authorities.
- Renew your residence permit before it expires; overstaying leads to fines and can affect future visas.
GradGate guides admitted students through the visa and arrival steps as part of our process. Questions? Contact an advisor.
Questions students ask
What is the difference between the X1 and X2 visa?
X1 is for study longer than 180 days and requires a residence permit after arrival. X2 is for study of 180 days or less.
What is the JW202 form?
It is the Visa Application for Study in China issued by your university to self-funded and most scholarship students. Government (CSC) scholarship students receive the JW201.
How long do I have to get a residence permit?
X1 visa holders must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of entering China.
Requirements, fees and deadlines change every intake. Always confirm details with the university, the scholarship body or the Chinese embassy before you apply.
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