FAQ
Common questions.
What do I need for the China student visa?
The official page asks for: admission letter from the school, JW201 or JW202 form, passport valid 6 months or more, visa application form and photo and health certificate for a permit over 1 year, as well as the money to live on.
How much money do I need for the China student visa?
The official pages do not ask for a set amount of money.
Can I work while I study in China?
Off-campus part-time work or internships need school approval and a note on the residence permit with the place and time. Without that note it is not allowed.
Can I stay in China after I graduate?
The official pages name no general job-search permit. Top graduates (bachelor's or higher) of key Chinese universities who start a business or do innovation work can get a residence permit of 2 to 5 years.
How long can I stay on the China student visa?
The residence permit can match the term of study shown by the school. A non-work permit lasts 180 days to 5 years. Yes. Apply at the local exit and entry office 30 days before the permit ends.
How much does the China student visa cost?
The visa fee and the visa centre service fee are paid at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center and depend on nationality.
Who can apply for the China student visa?
Open to citizens of any other country. Foreigners admitted by a school or university in China to study for more than 180 days. You enter on an X1 visa, then get a residence permit.
Can I bring my family?
A spouse, parents or children under 18 can apply for an S1 visa to stay with a student for more than 180 days.
How do I apply?
In person at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center for your area. Within 30 days of entry, apply for the residence permit at the local exit and entry office. The exit and entry office decides on the residence permit within 15 working days.
Sources
- China: X1 study visa and residence permit for study (en.nia.gov.cn)
- China: how to apply (eg.china-embassy.gov.cn)
- China: X1 study visa and residence permit for study (en.nia.gov.cn)
- China: Regulations on the entry and exit of foreigners (Article 22, work-study) (en.nia.gov.cn)
- China: Chinese Visa Application Service Center (visaforchina.cn)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.