X1 Visa - Long-Term Student Visa
Embassy required
- Processing time
- 4 business days
- Fee
- $30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185; must convert to Residence Permit after arrival)
- Validity
- Single entry; must convert to Residence Permit within 30 days of arrival (residence permit valid up to 5 years)
- Entry
- Single entry
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to nationals of all countries who have been admitted to a Chinese educational institution
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Purpose of visit
Long-term study (more than 180 days) at a Chinese educational institution including degree programs, Chinese language programs, and other academic programs
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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Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
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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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Health exam
Panel physician required: Varies by country - physical examination record may be required; Validity months: 6
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Certificate of
Issuing authority: Immigration authority; Residence status: Student; Validity months: 6
How to apply
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Document gathering
Receive original Admission Notice and JW201/JW202 form from the Chinese university. Complete physical examination if required.
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Online application
Fill in the COVA form online selecting X1 visa category.
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Document submission
Submit passport, COVA form, photo, admission notice, JW201/JW202 form, and health exam records 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 X1 visa. After arrival in China, register with local police within 24 hours and apply for Residence Permit at Public Security Bureau within 30 days.