Application Guide for Long-Term Family Visit Visa (Q1 Visa
The Q1 visa is a long-term family reunion visa issued by China to family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents in China, intended for individuals who wish to reside in China for an extended period, care for family members, or apply for residency due to foster care and other reasons.
Unlike the Q2 visa used for short-term visits, the Q1 visa is primarily for long-term stays, and after entry, applicants must apply for a family reunion-type residence permit.
The Q1 visa mainly applies to the following individuals:
Family members of Chinese citizens, family members of foreigners with permanent residency in China, and individuals applying for long-term residency due to foster care or similar circumstances.
Family members typically include:Spouses, parents, children, children’s spouses, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, and parents-in-law, among others.
Generally, the following materials are required:
- A valid passport;
- A visa application form and photograph;
- An invitation letter;
- The inviter’s Chinese ID card or proof of permanent residency;
- Proof of kinship (such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.);
- Other supplementary documents required by the embassy or consulate.
Documents proving kinship issued overseas usually require notarization and authentication.
Step 1: Prepare Application Materials
Prepare in advance documents such as the invitation letter, identity proof, and proof of kinship.
Step 2: Apply for the Q1 Visa
Submit the application materials to the Chinese embassy or consulate abroad, or to a visa application service center, and complete the required data collection procedures.
Step 3: Obtain the Visa and Enter China
After the visa is approved, you may enter China within its validity period. The Q1 visa is usually a single-entry visa.
Step 4: Register Accommodation
Upon arrival, you should complete accommodation registration as required. If staying at a hotel, the hotel will handle it; if staying with relatives or friends, you must register with the local public security authorities.
Step 5: Apply for a Family Reunion-Type Residence Permit
After entering China with a Q1 visa, you must apply within 30 days to the public security organ’s immigration administration department for a family reunion-type residence permit. Once granted, you can reside long-term and make multiple entries and exits within the permit’s validity period.
1. The Q1 visa is intended for long-term family reunions lasting more than 180 days.
2. After entry, you must obtain a residence permit as required.
3. Proof of kinship is a key review point; ensure all documents are authentic and complete.
4. Holders of a family reunion-type residence permit generally cannot work directly in China. If employment is desired, they must legally obtain a work permit and work-related residence documents.
5. Specific requirements may vary among embassies, consulates, and local immigration authorities. It is recommended to check the latest regulations before applying.