Visa Types and Application Procedures

1. D Visa: Issued to an applicant who is to reside permanently in China. A permanent residence confirmation form shall be required for the application of a D Visa. The applicant shall apply to obtain this form himself/ herself, or through his/her designated relatives in China from the exit-and-entry department of the public security bureau in the city or county where he/she applies to reside.

For more information about the procedures upon entry, please consult the public security bureau in the city or county where the applicant is to reside.

2. Z Visa: Issued to an applicant who is to take up a post or employment in China, and their accompanying family members. To apply for a Z Visa, an Employment License of the People's Republic of China for Foreigners and a visa notification letter/telegram issued by an authorized organization or company are required.

For more information about the procedures upon entry, please consult the public security bureau in the city or county where the applicant is to reside.

3. X Visa: Issued to an applicant who comes to China for the purpose of study, advanced studies or intern practice for a period over six months. To apply for an X Visa, certificates from the receiving unit or the competent authority concerned are required.

For more information about the procedures upon entry, please consult the public security bureau in the city or county where the applicant is to reside.

4. F Visa: Issued to an applicant who is invited to China for visit, research, lecture, business, scientific-technological and cultural exchanges or short-term advanced studies or intern practice for a period of no more than six months.To apply for an F Visa, the visa notification letter/telegram from the authorized unit is required.

For more information about the procedures upon entry, please consult the public security bureau in the city or county where the applicant is to reside.

5. L Visa: Issued to an applicant who comes to China for tourist purposes, family visiting or other private affairs (A group visa may be issued to a group of nine or more on a sightseeing trip to China). To apply for an L Visa for a tourist trip in China, a certificate of reception from a Chinese travel service; and, when necessary, plane, train or ship ticket(s) to the heading country/region after leaving China are required.
For more information about the procedures upon entry, please consult the public security bureau in the city or county where the applicant is to reside.