Application Guide for Long-Term Study Visa (X1 Visa
The X1 visa is a type of visa issued by China to foreigners who intend to study in China for an extended period, applicable to undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, language training, and other educational programs lasting more than 180 days.
It should be noted that the X1 visa is only for entry; after entering China, holders must also apply for a student residence permit to legally reside in China long-term.
Applicants generally need to meet the following conditions:
- They must have been admitted by a legal educational institution within China;
- Their study period must exceed 180 days;
- They must possess sufficient financial and academic capabilities to complete their studies;
- They must comply with relevant Chinese laws and regulations.
To apply for an X1 visa, applicants typically need to prepare the following materials:
- A passport valid for at least six months;
- A visa application form and recent passport-sized photos;
- An admission notice issued by a Chinese educational institution;
- The “Application Form for Visa for Foreign Students Coming to China” (Form JW201 or JW202);
- Proof of legal residency (for applicants applying for visas in third countries);
- Other supplementary materials required by the embassy or consulate.
Applicants under the age of 18 usually also need to submit documents such as a birth certificate, parents’ identification, and guardianship authorization papers.
Step 1: Obtain Admission Qualification
Submit an application to a Chinese school and receive the official admission notice along with Form JW201/JW202.
Step 2: Apply for the X1 Visa
With the relevant materials, submit the application to the Chinese embassy or consulate abroad, or to a visa application service center, and complete the required data collection procedures.
Step 3: Enter China
After obtaining the visa, enter China within its validity period and report to the school.
Step 4: Apply for a Student Residence Permit
Upon entering China with the X1 visa, apply for a student residence permit at the local public security bureau’s immigration management department within 30 days.
The residence permit will serve as legal proof of identity during your long-term studies in China.
1. The X1 visa applies to programs lasting more than 180 days; courses of 180 days or less typically require an X2 visa.
2. Be sure to promptly obtain a residence permit after entry to avoid affecting subsequent studies and residency.
3. If there are changes in the school, major, or study duration, promptly handle the corresponding amendment procedures.
4. Keep your passport, visa, and residence permit safe and pay attention to their expiration dates.
5. Specific requirements may vary among embassies and consulates in different countries; it is recommended to check the latest notices before applying.