Q1 Visa - Long-Term Family Reunion (Chinese Citizen/Permanent Resident Family)
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 4 business days
- Fee
- $30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185)
- Validity
- Single entry; must convert to Residence Permit within 30 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to nationals of all countries who are family members of Chinese citizens or foreigners with permanent residence in China
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Purpose of visit
Long-term family reunion (over 180 days) with Chinese citizen or permanent resident family member
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: Color photo, 33mm x 48mm, white background, bare-head, full face, taken within past 6 months
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Invitation letter from the Chinese citizen or permanent resident family member in China, including their personal details, relationship to applicant, and purpose of visit
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA); Form url: https://cova.cs.mfa.gov.cn
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Birth certificate
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
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Relationship evidence
Minimum evidence items: 1; Relationship type: Spouse, parent, child, child-in-law, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, or parent-in-law of Chinese citizen or permanent resident
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain invitation letter from Chinese family member, their Chinese ID/passport copies, and original family relationship certificates.
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Online application
Fill in COVA form selecting Q1 visa.
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Document submission
Submit all documents at CVASC or Embassy/Consulate.
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Fee payment
Pay applicable visa fee.
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Processing wait
Standard: 4 business days.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with Q1 visa. After arrival, register with police within 24 hours and apply for Residence Permit at PSB within 30 days.