Visas and Residence Permit

a) X1 Visa
The X1 Visa is for people studying in China for more than 6 months. Once issued, it allows applicants 30 days to register at the international student office of their university and apply for a residence permit.

b) X2 Visa
The X2 visa is for people engaging in short-term (less than 6 months) academic activities in China. It specifies how many days in total applicants are allowed to stay in China on the visa page. For instance, if you enter China with an X2 visa valid for 90 days on August 25, you may stay until November 23.

c) L Visa
The L visa is a tourist visa. It is for people or groups travelling to China.

d) S1 and S2 Visa
The S1 visa is a long-term visa pass for dependents such as family members, parents/parents-in-law of work/study visa holders.
The S2 visa is a short-term visa pass for dependents such as family members, parents/parents-in-law of work/study visa holders.

e) Z Visa
A Z visa is required if you are coming to China to perform services in a pre-arranged professional job.

f) Residence Permit
A residence permit is issued to people studying in China for more than 6 months. Once granted, it allows students unlimited entry into China through the period of the permit's validity.