Study Chinese in China / X1 or X2
Visa class
X1 or X2: the study period decides
There are two study visas. Which one you apply for follows from the study period in your admission notice, not from the type of course.
The two classes
The X1 visa is issued to persons who apply for long-term study in China. The X2 visa is for persons who apply for short-term study.
Where the line is
Short-term means a stay of no more than 180 days, 180 days included. Long-term means more than 180 days. The Measures for international students use the same line for study: short-term study is 180 days or fewer.
Entry-Exit Regulations · Article 36(4) and (5)MOE Order No. 42 · Article 45
When to apply
A foreigner admitted to a school in China applies before entry, according to the study period, for an X1 or X2 visa at the Chinese embassy or consulate in the country of nationality or residence, or at another overseas body entrusted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
What each one needs
For the X1 visa the applicant submits the admission notice issued by the admitting institution and the certification documents provided by the competent authority. For the X2 visa the applicant submits certification documents such as the admission notice. The visa office may ask for more in a particular case.
After entry on an X1
Where the visa says a residence permit is needed after entry, you apply within 30 days of entry to the exit and entry administration of the public security organ in the place you will live. A residence permit that is not for work is valid for at least 180 days and at most five years.
Exit and Entry Administration Law · Article 30MOE Order No. 42 · Article 36
| Study period in the admission notice | Visa class | Residence permit |
|---|---|---|
| 180 days or fewer | X2 | Not part of this route; you stay for the duration written on the visa |
| More than 180 days | X1 | Apply within 30 days of entry where the visa says so |
Entry-Exit Regulations · Articles 6(11) and 36Exit and Entry Administration Law · Article 30
Sources
- Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (English text published by the National Immigration Administration) (checked 2026-10-10)
- Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Public Security: Measures for the Administration of Schools Recruiting and Educating International Students, Order No. 42 (学校招收和培养国际学生管理办法, in Chinese) (checked 2026-10-10)
- Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China (English text published by the National Immigration Administration) (checked 2026-10-10)
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