Congrats on receiving an admission letter from your dream Chinese university!
Your first steps on Chinese soil are about to kick off an incredible chapter of studying abroad in your life. But before diving into the vibrant campus life that awaits, there's one crucial mission to complete -- getting your visa sorted and preparing for entry. We've put together this step-by-step guide covering everything from detailed document checklists to border-crossing tips, ensuring your journey to China starts without a hitch!
Studying in China requires a study visa, and there are two main players: X1 and X2. Let's find your match!
Note: The X1 visa is only valid for 30 days after arrival, so you are advised not to arrive too early -- you must register at
your university first before you are eligible to apply for a residence permit.
The Essentials:
(1) Passport
● Original passport with at least 6 months of validity and a blank visa page
● One photocopy of your passport photo page
(2) Visa application form & photo
● A completed Chinese Visa Application Form
● A recent passport-sized photo (color, front-facing, light background) pasted on the application form
(3) Proof of Legal Stay (if you’re not applying in your home country)
● Provide a valid visa, residence, work, or study permit for your current location.
Supporting Documents：
(1) Admission Letter
● Original and photocopy of your admission letter from a Chinese university.
(2) Visa Application for Study in China (JW201 or JW202)
● Original and photocopy required
Note: Call the Embassy of the people's republic of China in your region to confirm specific requirements ahead of time.
Note: China Online VISA Application (https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/).
For specific steps, please refer to the official website of the consulate or embassy that covers your consular district.
Got your visa? You're almost there! Before checking in your luggage, let's do one final sweep to make sure your entry into China is smooth as silk.
● Essential documents: passport, visa, admission letter, health check reports....
● Power adapters and chargers（China uses Type A, C, and I plugs；The voltage standard is 220V / 50Hz）
● Some cash for emergencies
● Prescription meds: Keep original packaging and check ingredients aren't restricted in China
● Prohibited items: Dairy products, meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables are not allowed
● Set up e-payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay)
●Download translation apps for smooth communication
Fill Arrival Card ➡️ Fingerprint scanning ➡️ Customs clearance ➡️ Grab your luggage
Tips: If you're not heading straight to campus, remember to complete accommodation registration within 24 hours of
checking into your hotel (hotels will help with this)!
Once you step onto campus, please follow your university's specific registration process.You'll quickly discover that teachers and fellow students are incredibly welcoming and happy to help newcomers -- from handling enrollment procedures to showing you around campus, never hesitate to ask questions!
We hope this guide gives you the confidence to embark on your study-abroad adventure. Wishing you an enriching and unforgettable time in China!
