I. Differences Between X1 and X2 Visas
| Visa Type | Study Duration | Entry Frequency | Residence Permit Required | Target Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X1 Visa | Over 180 days | Usually single entry | Yes, must apply within 30 days of entry | Undergraduate, Master's, PhD and other long-term students |
| X2 Visa | 180 days or less | Usually single entry | No | Language courses, short-term exchange programs and other short-term students |
Study Duration: Over 180 days
Entry Frequency: Usually single entry
Residence Permit: Yes, must apply within 30 days of entry
Target Applicants: Undergraduate, Master's, PhD and other long-term students
Study Duration: 180 days or less
Entry Frequency: Usually single entry
Residence Permit: No
Target Applicants: Language courses, short-term exchange programs and other short-term students
II. Required Documents for Visa Application
- Original passport and copy with validity of at least 6 months
- Original and copy of the Admission Notice issued by the Chinese university
- Original and copy of the JW201 or JW202 form (Visa Application Form for Study in China)
- Completed and signed Chinese Visa Application Form
- Recent white background passport photo
- Physical examination report (may be required by some embassies)
- Other possible documents, such as criminal record certificate, financial guarantee materials, etc.
III. Visa Application Process
- Determine Visa Type: Choose the appropriate visa type (X1 or X2) based on your study duration
- Prepare Application Materials: Prepare required documents according to the list above
- Complete Online Application Form: Log in to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website (https://www.visaforchina.cn) to fill out the Chinese Visa Application Form, print and sign it
- Schedule Application Submission: Some embassies may require appointments, please follow the requirements of your region
- Submit Application Materials: Visit the Chinese embassy or visa application center at the scheduled time to submit materials and provide fingerprints
- Wait for Review Results: Generally, visa processing takes 4-7 working days, specific time subject to embassy notification
- Collect Visa: Collect passport and visa at the notified time after approval
IV. Post-Entry Notes
For X1 Visa Holders:
- Apply for Residence Permit: Within 30 days of entry, visit the local immigration office with required materials to apply for residence permit
- Accommodation Registration: Complete accommodation registration at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival in China
For X2 Visa Holders:
- Accommodation Registration: Also need to complete accommodation registration within 24 hours of arrival
- Monitor Visa Validity: Ensure completion of study tasks within visa validity period to avoid overstaying
V. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: I plan to study in China for 6 months, which visa should I apply for?
A1: If your study duration is 180 days or less, apply for an X2 visa; if more than 180 days, apply for an X1 visa.
Q2: Can X1 visa holders enter China multiple times?
A2: X1 visa itself is usually single entry, but the residence permit obtained after entry allows multiple entries and exits.
Q3: Can X2 visa be converted to a residence permit?
A3: Generally, X2 visa cannot be converted to a residence permit. For long-term study, you should apply for an X1 visa in advance.
Q4: How long does the visa application process take?
A4: Visa processing usually takes 4-7 working days, but the specific time may vary depending on embassy workload. It's recommended to apply in advance.
Q5: What should the physical examination report include?
A5: The physical examination report should include basic items such as blood tests, chest X-ray, etc. For specific requirements, please consult your local Chinese embassy or designated medical examination institution.