The security of a legal stay in China is the foundation of every international student’s academic journey. As of February 2026, the Chinese government has streamlined its entry policies, but strict documentation remains mandatory to manage the influx of over 500,000 international scholars. This guide provides a factual roadmap for obtaining the correct visa (X1 or X2), navigating the mandatory JW201/JW202 forms, and complying with the 30-day residency rule. By following these verified steps, students can ensure their transition to campuses in Beijing, Shanghai, or beyond is legally sound and free from administrative delays.
Global education requires official travel authorization. Chinese consulates process thousands of student applications. Valid passports serve as the primary identity document. Academic institutions issue the necessary admission letters.
I am writing this guide on the China Student Visa because the 2026 cycle involves updated biometric requirements and a new digital verification system for the JW202/DQ forms. Whether you are a first-time applicant or a returning student, understanding the distinction between long-term residency and short-term study is vital to avoid heavy fines or deportation. Use the following guide to meet eligibility criteria and secure your legal status for the upcoming semester.
1. Visa Type
Your visa type is determined solely by the length of your academic program in China.
- X1 Visa (Long-Term): For students planning to study for more than 180 days (e.g., degree programs or year-long language courses).
- Validity: Usually 30 days after entry. It must be converted into a Residence Permit.+1
- X2 Visa (Short-Term): For students studying for 180 days or less (e.g., one semester or short summer schools).
- Validity: Valid for the duration indicated on the visa. It generally does not require a residence permit.+1
2. JW Forms
Before you apply, your host university must provide you with a “Visa Application for Study in China” form.
- JW201 Form: Issued to students who have received a Chinese Government Scholarship or other government-funded grants.
- JW202 Form: Issued to self-funded students or those receiving partial scholarships from other sources.
- DQ Form: A newer form sometimes used for short-term students (30–180 days) as a simplified alternative to the JW202
3. Mandatory Documents
You must prepare your application folder with the following five items to avoid on-site rejection.
- Passport: Original and photocopy; must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.
- Application Form & Photo: One completed COVA (China Online Visa Application) form with a 48mm x 33mm photo against a white background.
- Admission & JW Forms: Originals and photocopies of both the university notice and your JW201/JW202.
- Foreigner Physical Examination Record: Mandatory for X1 visa holders. The form must be signed by a physician, include a hospital stamp, and be less than 6 months old.
- Fingerprint Collection: Applicants aged 14 to 70 must be present in person for biometric data collection at the visa center.
4. Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Follow these four stages to secure your visa for the 2026 academic year.
- Online Filing: Complete the COVA form at the China Visa Application Service Center and upload your digital photo.
- Book Appointment: Use the AVAS (Appointment for Visa Application Submission) system to schedule your visit.
- Submission & Fees: Submit your physical documents and pay the fees (approx. $30–$140 depending on nationality and speed).
- Collection: Standard processing takes 4–5 business days. Collect your passport or opt for secure courier delivery.
5. Arrival and the 30-Day Residency Rule
Entering China on an X1 Visa is only the first step of your legal residency.
- Police Registration: You must register your address at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival.
- Residence Permit: You have exactly 30 days from your entry date to visit the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau to convert your X1 visa into a Foreigner’s Residence Permit. Failure to do so results in illegal stay status and heavy fines (approx. 500 RMB per day).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I work on a student visa? Under 2026 regulations, students with a residence permit may engage in off-campus internships if their university and the local PSB add a “work-study” notation to their permit.
- Do I need a medical exam for an X2 visa? Usually, no. Only X1 (long-term) applicants or those staying over 180 days are required to submit the Foreigner Physical Examination Record.
- What if my passport expires in 5 months? You must renew your passport first. Most consulates require at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended entry date.
