The China student visa comes in two types — X1 for study over 180 days and X2 for study under 180 days — and most degree students who study in China will need the X1 visa. This guide explains the documents, the application process, and what to do after you land.
According to Chinese embassy guidance:
X1 visa — for degree programmes and long-term study of more than 180 days. This is the visa most international students need.
X2 visa — for short courses, exchange visits, or study of 180 days or fewer.
If you are starting a bachelor's degree, plan for the X1.
The Chinese embassy or visa application centre will usually ask for:
Visa application form (completed online via the official visa application system) and appointment confirmation
Original passport with at least six months' validity and blank visa pages
Admission notice (JW202 or DQ form) — issued by your Chinese university, with a copy of the university's admission letter
Passport photo meeting Chinese visa specifications
Physical examination record for long-term study, completed by an authorised hospital
Your university sends the JW202 (Visa Application Form for Study in China) after you accept your offer. Keep both the original and copies.
Most students who study in China apply through the centre that serves their country of residence.
Apply at the Chinese embassy or a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in your country — check the official visa application website for your country's centre and current procedure. You will book an appointment, submit your documents and fingerprints, pay the visa fee, and collect your passport with the visa a few working days later. Processing times vary by country, so apply at least four weeks before your departure.
This part is essential. According to Chinese exit-entry regulations, X1 visa holders [must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival](/news/can-you-complete-further-visa-procedures-in-china-1542.shtml) at the local Exit-Entry Administration of the Public Security Bureau. Your university's international student office will guide you through the medical check and the residence permit application. Your X1 visa is usually valid for only 30 days — the residence permit replaces it and allows you to stay for your full degree.
Arriving too close to the registration deadline to complete the medical check
Forgetting to register with the local police station within 24 hours if you stay off campus
Letting your residence permit expire — renew it before your study period ends
This article follows visa guidance published by Chinese embassies and the National Immigration Administration. Always check the official visa application website for your country before applying. Last updated: October 2026.
Get your admission notice and JW202 from a Chinese university — start your application online today with SICAS.
SICAS (Study In China Admission System) supports international students from admission to arrival, including the visa document stage, so you arrive in China prepared.
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