If you are planning to study in China in 2024, you will need to apply for a Chinese student visa (X visa) before you travel. The X visa type of entry permit allows you to stay in China for the duration of your study program.
This article will guide you through the steps and requirements of applying for a Chinese student visa for the 2024 intake. Begin the process only after you have confirmed your enrolment at your chosen university.
Step 1: Get an Admission Notice and a JW202 Form from Your University
The first step of applying for a Chinese student visa is to get an admission notice and a JW202 form from the university you have just enrolled in. Here’s what you need to know about these documents:
Admission Notice
Original Admission Notices are required for student (X1/X2) visa applications. The University Admissions Team will send the soft copy to your registered email address once prepared. Also, the University will normally send the hardcopy to your registered mailing address after the admission notice is printed and stamped.
JW202/DQ Forms
JW202 Form (Visa Application for Study in China): Required for students whose programs are longer than 180 days. It is issued to students in full-time degree programs, and on-year visiting or exchange programs (including one year non degree Chinese language programs).
DQ Form (Short-Term International Student’s Information Form): For students studying between 30 and 180 days. It is issued to students in non-degree Chinese language programs and one-semester visiting or exchange programs.
JW202/DQ forms are issued by the Ministry of Education, and the University will help you apply for them once you’re accepted to the program or after receiving your deposit or tuition fee payment.
Download and Verification of JW202/DQ Forms
After your application is approved, you will receive an email with instructions to download and verify your JW202/DQ form on the Study in China website. Ensure this email does not go to your junk or spam folder.
Important: Use a computer (laptop or desktop) as the software may not be compatible with smartphones or tablets.
Download your JW202/DQ Form here, and you can verify your JW202/DQ Form here.
Important notes: Use the email address you used for your university application to download the form. Using a different email address will prevent you from accessing the form.
There may be a limit on how many times you can download the JW/DQ form, so please proceed with cautious.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
The second step is to prepare the required documents for your visa application. Depending on your nationality and the type of student visa you are applying for, the documents may vary slightly, so be sure to double-check this for your specific situation. Generally, you can expect to need the following:
- A completed visa application form with a recent passport-sized photo in white background
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages
- The original and photocopy of your admission notice
- The photocopy (printed version) of your JW202/DQ form
- Any other documents required by the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country
You can find more information about the specific requirements and fees for your visa application on the website of the Chinese embassy or Chinese Visa Application Center in your country.
Step 3: Submit Your Visa Application to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate
The third step of applying for a Chinese student visa is to submit your visa application to the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. This is usually done in person or by mail, depending on the local regulations in your country. You will need to pay the visa fee when you submit your application. The amount may vary depending on your nationality, visa application service, and the type of student visa you are applying for.
The processing time for your visa depends on your location and the season, but generally, it takes about four working days, but it may take longer due to the volume of applications and processing time. Check the status of your visa application online or by phone using the tracking number provided by the embassy or visa center. Once your visa is approved, you will receive a notification to collect your passport with the visa sticker attached.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Departure and Arrival in China
Once you have obtained your visa sticker and passport, it’s time to prepare for your departure and arrival in China. Before you leave, you should make sure that you have all the necessary documents and items for your travel and study in China, including:
- Your passport with the valid student visa
- Your admission notice and JW202 form
- Your physical examination record and blood test report
- Your flight ticket and accommodation confirmation
- Your health insurance and travel insurance
- Your personal belongings and money
- Any other documents or items required by your university or program
When you arrive in China, follow the immigration procedures at the airport and present your passport and valid visa to the immigration officer. It’s also advisable to carry your admission notice and JW202/DQ form which may be necessary for further verification at the immigration. You should also declare any items that are subject to customs inspection or taxation. After clearing immigration and customs, make your way to your university or accommodation as soon as possible.
Don’t forget it’s compulsory to register with the local police station within 24 hours of your arrival in China.
Also, specifically for X1 visa holder, you will then need to apply for a residence permit at the local exit-entry administration bureau within 30 days of your arrival in China. The University will generally help with this process, and make sure to prepare your passport with valid X1 visa, admission notice, JW202/DQ form, physical examination report, accommodation registration form, and two photos in white background for this procedure.
You should also contact your university or program coordinator to confirm your enrollment and orientation details. Be sure to attend any activities organized by your university or program, such as health check-ups, language tests, or cultural events.
Make sure you’re prepared for your move to China by downloading our free guidebook for international students.
Congratulations, you have successfully applied for a Chinese student visa and are ready to start your study adventure in China! We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or need any assistance with your application, please feel free to contact our team of experienced Student Advisors. We are always happy to help you with your study in China journey. Good luck and have fun!
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