X1 or X2, the JW201 and JW202 forms, the 30-day conversion window and what happens if you get the sequence wrong.
The decision is purely about duration. Picking the wrong one means leaving the country to reapply.
| Visa | Who it is for | Entry and stay | Residence permit | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X1 | Study longer than 180 days | Usually single entry, 30-day stay on arrival | Yes — convert to a residence permit within 30 days | Degree programmes, long-term language courses |
| X2 | Study up to 180 days | Single entry, stay as stated on the visa | No | One-semester exchange, short courses, summer schools |
An X1 visa is issued with a 30-day stay. It becomes a residence permit only after you apply inside China — it is not a one-year visa on arrival.
The university issues an admission letter plus a JW201 form (for scholarship holders) or JW202 form (self-funded). Both are visa-support documents issued through the education authority.
Use the Foreigner Physical Examination Form at a designated hospital in your country. Keep the original — you will need it again in China.
Bring passport, visa form, photo, admission letter, JW form, physical examination record and fee. Processing is typically four to ten working days.
X1 holders must register at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival, then apply for a residence permit at the exit-entry bureau within 30 days.
Bring passport, admission letter, JW form, physical examination record, accommodation registration and photos. Processing takes about a week.
A residence permit lets you leave and re-enter freely. Part-time work or internships need written approval from the university and the exit-entry bureau first.
| Item | Fee | Processing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residence permit — up to 1 year | 400 CNY | 7–15 working days | Issued by the local exit-entry administration after arrival |
| Residence permit — 1 to 3 years | 800 CNY | 7–15 working days | Covers most bachelor's and master's programmes |
| Residence permit — 3 to 5 years | 1,000 CNY | 7–15 working days | PhD and long programmes |
| Police registration | Free | Same day | Required within 24 hours of arrival, and again after any address change |
| Re-entry permit | Not needed | — | A valid residence permit already allows multiple entries |
Fees are set nationally but collection practice varies slightly by city. Bring cash or a Chinese bank card — some offices do not accept foreign cards.
Tell us the programme length and whether you hold a scholarship — we will confirm the visa type, the form you should receive and the conversion steps.