What are the different types of visas for China?

Before applying for a visa, you must first determine which one is suited to your own situation: whether you are a student, an employee or a researcher sent on a special assignment, your status will establish the specific category of visa you need.

The four main types of visas to enter China

Tourist and family visit visa (L-visa)

• for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days
• the easiest type of visa to obtain (it is the most issued for China followed by the business visa F)  
• the simplest to renew (two possible renewals for up to one month each time)
• does not entitle you to work legally in China

Student visa (X-visa)

• suited for foreign students
• issued for a period of six months or more
• often issued temporarily until your one-year residence permit (multiple-entries) is delivered
• the original and copy of your admission notice from the Chinese university are required
• the original and copy of your Visa Application for Study in China (Form JW-201 for the Chinese government scholarship students or Form JW-202 to study in a non-governmental institution) are required
• a Physical Examination Record for Foreigner form filled out by your physician (with blood test, etc.) is required

Business visa (F-visa)

• suited for foreign students in China
• issued for a period of less than six months
• issued for business, research or lectures, scientific and cultural exchanges
• entitles you to legally work in China
• an invitation letter from the company hosting or from an official institution (for students: your admission notice from the Chinese university) is required
• original and copy of  filled out Form JW-202 are required

Employment / Work visa (Z-visa)

• for an extended stay (over six months)
• difficult to obtain (the procedure can last up to three months)
• entitles you to legally work in China
• also issued to foreigners accompanied by their family members
• the employer (whether he is Chinese or not) usually takes care of the procedure himself
• some qualifications are required to apply: you will need the equivalent of a Benke (the Chinese bachelor’s degree, or four years of university studies) and two years of work experience after your studies
• a "Physical Examination Report for Foreigner" must be filled out once you are in China

Specific visas

• The Crew Visa (C-Visa) is issued to crew members working for an airline flying regularly to China (pilots, flight attendants, etc.). The extended stays are not authorized outside of the work schedule
• The Journalist visas J-1/J-2 are respectively issued for short-term news coverage (no more than a few months) or long-term assignments accompanied by the family. The length of stay is determined on an individual basis.
• The Transit visa (G-Visa) is issued to aliens who are about to transit through China for more than 24 hours and up to 10 days (no visa is required below that limit).
• The Resident visa (D-Visa) is delivered to foreigners authorized to reside permanently in China.

Each embassy provides a complete list of the documents you will require for your visa application.  Since every situation is different, carefully go through the list before sealing and sending your envelope; that way, you could avoid unnecessary and costly delays.