X1 Visa (study over 180 days) and residence permit for study
The X1 visa is issued to people who will study in China for more than 180 days. Applicants need an admission letter from a Chinese institution and the 'Visa Application for Study in China' form (JW201 or JW202). The X1 visa is for entry only: within 30 days of arrival the student must apply to the local public security exit-entry department for a residence permit for study, which can match the term of study.
1 entry rule for China based on recent travel
These apply to people who were recently in certain countries. Sign in and add your trips to see whether any apply to you.
Yellow fever certificate needed after a stay in countries with risk of yellow fever transmission (WHO list)
Travellers aged 9 months and over arriving from a yellow fever risk country (or after more than 12 hours' airport transit in one) need a valid yellow fever certificate. Without one: may be held for observation for up to 6 days after leaving the infected area, or vaccinated and held until the vaccination takes effect.
WHO International Travel and Health, Annex 1: Countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and countries requiring proof of vaccination against yellow fever (18 Nov 2022, revised 3 Jan 2023) WHO ITH Country List: Vaccination requirements and WHO recommendations for international travellers, 2022 edition (18 Nov 2022, revised 3 Jan 2023) Frontier Health and Quarantine Law of the People's Republic of China Beijing Municipal Government FAQ: Do I need immunizations to enter China? Checked October 19, 2026
Life in China
Money
3
Currency
Chinese Yuan
CNY
Chinese Yuan
Cost of living
48
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
3–45%
Income tax (national)
VAT 13%
45% applies to annual taxable comprehensive income above CNY 960,000 after a CNY 60,000 basic deduction.
Living
1
Happiness
#63 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Premium
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
International students admitted to a college, university or other educational institution in mainland China for more than 180 days.
Eligibility
Admission
Admission letter issued by a college, university or other educational institution in China.
JW201 or JW202 form
Original or photocopy of the 'Visa Application for Study in China' form issued for the student.
Elementary stage studentsPrimary and secondary students
Original or photocopy of the 'Confirmation Form for Elementary Stages Students Study in China' issued by Chinese authorities.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirement
- Document checklist
- Fees
The full requirements are for members
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- 1 more requirement
- 7 documents
- 3 fees
- 4 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Programs and scholarships Premium
Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.
Places to visit in China
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