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Student Visa (X Visa)

Duration: Up to 5 years (X1) / Up to 180 days (X2)
Cost: $140 USD
Processing: 4-7 business days

The X Visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to study in China. The X1 Visa is for long-term study programs exceeding 180 days, while the X2 Visa covers short-term programs of 180 days or less. China hosts over 400,000 international students and offers programs in Chinese language, traditional medicine, engineering, and many other fields at universities across the country.

签证要求

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and blank visa pages
  • Completed visa application form (Form V.2013) with recent passport-style photo
  • Admission letter (Lu Qu Tong Zhi Shu) from a Chinese educational institution
  • JW201 or JW202 form issued by the Chinese government
  • Health examination record (Physical Examination Record for Foreigners)
  • Proof of financial support or scholarship documentation
  • Highest education diploma or transcripts

重要提示

X1 Visa holders must register with local police and apply for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival. Many Chinese universities offer scholarship programs for international students, including the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC).

分步申请流程

1

Determine the correct visa type — Student Visa (X Visa) — based on the purpose of your trip.

2

Gather all required documents including passport, photos, and supporting materials listed on the consulate website.

3

Complete the online visa application form (Form V.2013) at the Chinese embassy or consulate website.

4

Schedule an appointment at your nearest Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa application centre.

5

Submit your application in person with all documents and pay the visa fee.

6

Wait for processing, which typically takes 4-7 business days. Expedited options may be available for an additional fee.

7

Collect your passport with the issued visa and verify that the entry dates, duration, and number of entries are correct before travelling.

申请成功技巧

  • Start the application process at least three weeks before your planned departure to allow for delays.
  • Make photocopies of all submitted documents for your own records.
  • Ensure your passport photo meets the exact specifications — 48mm x 33mm, white background, taken within the last six months.
  • Apply for your visa only after receiving the official admission letter and JW form from your university.
  • X1 Visa holders must register with local police within 24 hours of arrival and apply for a residence permit within 30 days.
  • Bring extra passport photos — you will need them for university registration and residence permit applications.
  • Research Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) programmes, which cover tuition and provide a stipend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for China?
Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter China. The type of visa depends on the purpose of your visit — tourism, business, study, or transit. However, China also offers visa-free transit programmes for citizens of 54 countries, which can cover short visits of up to 144 hours. Check your eligibility for visa-free transit before applying.
How long does it take to get a Student Visa (X Visa)?
Standard processing for a Student Visa (X Visa) takes 4-7 business days. Expedited processing is usually available for an additional fee and can reduce the wait to 2-3 business days. During peak travel seasons, processing times may be longer, so apply well in advance.
How much does a Student Visa (X Visa) cost?
The standard fee for a Student Visa (X Visa) is $140 for US citizens. Fees vary by nationality and may differ in your country. Additional charges apply for expedited processing, multiple-entry visas, and visa application centre service fees.
How long can I stay in China with a Student Visa (X Visa)?
A Student Visa (X Visa) allows a stay of Up to 5 years (X1) / Up to 180 days (X2). The exact duration granted depends on your nationality and the specifics of your application. Multiple-entry visas may allow repeated visits within the validity period.
What documents do I need for a Student Visa (X Visa)?
Key requirements include: Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and blank visa pages; Completed visa application form (Form V.2013) with recent passport-style photo; Admission letter (Lu Qu Tong Zhi Shu) from a Chinese educational institution. There are 7 requirements in total — check the full list on the Chinese embassy website for your country.
Can I extend my Student Visa (X Visa)?
It is possible to extend certain visa types at a Public Security Bureau (PSB) entry-exit office within China. Apply before your current visa expires and bring your passport, registration form, and a completed extension application. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of the authorities.
What are common mistakes when applying for a Student Visa (X Visa)?
Common mistakes include submitting an incomplete application, using photos that do not meet specifications, not having enough blank passport pages, and applying too close to the travel date. Double-check every document before submitting and apply at least three weeks in advance.