Tourist visa · Hong Kong to China

S2 Visa - Short-Term Private/Family Visit

Embassy required

Maximum stay
180 days
Processing time
4 business days
Fee
$30 USD (varies by nationality; US: $185)
Validity
Single or double entry: 3-6 months
Entry
Single entry

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Available to nationals of all countries

  • Purpose of visit

    Short-term family visit (180 days or fewer) to a foreign national family member working or studying in China

    Includes
    • Short-term family visit (180 days or fewer)

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: Color photo, 33mm x 48mm, white background, bare-head, full face, taken within past 6 months

  • Invitation letter

    Host requirements: Invitation letter from the foreign worker/student in China with contact details and relationship information

  • 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

  • Relationship evidence

    Minimum evidence items: 1; Relationship type: Spouse, parent, child under 18, or parent-in-law

How to apply

  1. Online application

    Fill in COVA form selecting S2 visa.

  2. Document submission

    Submit all documents at CVASC or Embassy/Consulate.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay applicable visa fee.

  4. Processing wait

    Standard: 4 business days.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect passport with S2 visa.

Sign in to apply
This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.

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