Immigration services in China China visas
Every foreigner entering China needs to apply for a visa. There are different types of visas depending on the category which you fall under. Visa application and extension procedures can be time-consuming and are subject to change due to the political climate and other factors.
Here is an overview of the different types of China visas that are available:
China visa tourist visa – L (Lüyou)
The L visa is issued for family visits, sightseeing or other private purposes. L visas usually permit entry to China within 90 days and are generally valid for 30 days after entry, although you may request a longer stay. Double or multiple-entry visas are also available.
China visa business visa – F (Fangwen)
Officially, the F visa is issued to foreigners who are visiting on business, scientific or technological exchanges, short-term advanced studies programmes or an internship for a period of no longer than 6 months. They are also issued to students staying up to 6 months. As with the L visa, F visas usually grant you a period of 90 days to enter China.
It is possible to get double and multiple-entry visas for a stay of six to twelve months. The visa application needs more detailed documentation, such as visa-issuance letter from a Chinese governmental organisation or invitation letters from both a foreign company and its branch in China.
China visa work visa – Z (Jiuye)
 The Z visa allows the bearer to work full-time in China with a Chinese or foreign company, school or other entity. It is also granted to accompanying family members. Applicants need to supply a visa notification issued by the proposed employer, a work permit issued by the Chinese Labor Ministry of a Foreign Expert’s License issued by the Chinese Foreign Expert Bureau. Family members need to supply proof of kinship.
China visa student visa – X (Xuexi)
The X visa is intended for foreigners who come to China to study or intern for more than 6 months. Students need to supply letters from their universities.
China visa journalist visa – J (Jizhe)
J-1 visas are issued to journalists working in China for over one year. J-2 visas are issued to those on temporary assignments in China. Applicants need to submit their press card and an official letter from the Department of News, a branch of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Diplomatic or Service visa
Diplomatic or service visas are issued to members of diplomatic missions, foreign governments or the UN, traveling to China on official missions or for accreditation.
Other China visasOther China visas include transit visas, resident visas, crew visas and group tourist visas.
For more information on visas, please refer to www.bjgaj.gov.cn/epolice/qianzheng.html
China residence permits
 China visas Z, X and J-1 only grant initial stays of up to 30 days. Before expiry of the initial 30 days, you must apply for a residence permit at the Exit & Entry Administration of the Public Security Bureau. Residence permits replace the visa and grant unlimited exit and entry from China for their duration.
Health certificate
Each visa type requires different documentation. Your employer should supply the relevant information. If you are planning on staying one year or longer you will need to complete the Health Certification from the Exit & Entry Inspection & Quarantine Bureau. You can obtain the Health Certification form from our Download Centre here.
Registration with the public security bureau
All visa-holders entering China need to register with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) 24 hours after their arrival in the country. Registration at hotels counts as registration with the PSB. Failing to do so may result in penalties, so this requirement is to be taken seriously.
China import and export permits
For import of household goods into China you will first need to have obtained your residence permit as well as a valid work permit for China. Links Moving can then assist you with the application process for your import permit required to transport your household contents into China. There is a separate permit required for the import of pets.
On leaving China you will need an export permit to send your personal effects overseas. Again we can assist with the application process.
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