Visa and entry checklist
Once you receive admission documents, plan your visa application and arrival. Confirm the visa category, prepare documents, and allow time for travel and procedures after entering China.
Visa categories · Documents · Arrival · Residence permits
01 / VISA TYPES
When should you start?
Confirm visa requirements as soon as you receive admission documents. Allow enough time for preparation, the application and travel arrangements.
X1 usually applies to long-term study exceeding 180 days.
X2 usually applies to short-term study of no more than 180 days.
X1 visa holders must apply for a study residence permit within 30 days of entering China.
02 / DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
Prepare your documents
Requirements depend on the visa category and the Chinese embassy or consulate serving your location. Confirm the latest local checklist before applying.
Basic documents
- Valid passport
- Visa application form
- Compliant identity photos
- University admission notice
X1 · Long-term study
- Admission notice
- JW201/JW202 or other required study visa documents
- Additional documents required by the local embassy or consulate
X2 · Short-term study
- Admission notice
- Other documents required locally
03
Apply for a visa
Submit the application as instructed by the embassy, consulate or visa application service. Additional documents or an interview may be required. Check your name, passport number, visa type, validity, number of entries and permitted stay after approval.
04
Before departure
Once your visa is approved, confirm flights, registration dates, accommodation and any university pickup arrangements. Carry your important documents with you.
- Passport and valid visa
- Admission notice
- JW201/JW202 and related documents
- University contact details and address
- Accommodation details
- Other documents requested by the university
05
Arriving in China
Complete immigration procedures and travel to your university or arranged accommodation. Follow university instructions for identity checks, accommodation registration and enrolment.
06
Important procedures after arrival
For long-term students, arrival is not the end of the process. X1 visa holders must apply for a study residence permit within 30 days of entry at the relevant local exit-entry administration. Follow university guidance and prepare documents on time.
Your arrival journey at a glance
- 01
Receive admission
- 02
Prepare visa documents
- 03
Apply for X1/X2
- 04
Receive your visa
- 05
Book travel and accommodation
- 06
Enter China
- 07
Report to your university
- 08
Complete registration
- 09
Apply for a residence permit
- 10
Begin your studies
Step 9 applies to X1 visa holders: apply for a study residence permit within 30 days of entry.