Getting Visas to China

The typical documents an applicant seeking a Chinese Visa are the following: passport that is valid for at least 6 or 9 months for a single entry or double entry application respectively; passport-size photos; return ticket; hotel booking or other lodging itineraries; proof of adequate finances; and recommendation letter from a Chinese institute. Moreover, aliens staying for more than 6 months will also be required for a medical examination. Below are the different types of visas the Chinese embassy is issuing to foreign applicants:

• (L) Type: Tourist Visa
  For foreigners touring China or doing other leisure activities an (L) Visa is appropriate. A Single or Double Entry (L) visa is valid for 90-180 days after it was issued. The duration for this type is 30 days from the entry date and may be extended for another 30 days upon request.
• (F) Type: Business Visa
  An (F) Type Visa is issued to foreigners for purposes of business, short-range special studies, or scientific/technological researches not exceeding 6 months. The validity of (F) Type visas are usually 90 or 180 days starting the issued date. The holder cans stay in China for 30 days and can be extended by the visa offer for more than 30 days.
• (X) Type: Working Visa
  Aliens seeking employment in China should apply for a (Z) Visa. It is valid for 3 months and consists of procedural processes before to be issued. Any applicants with any mental disorder, venereal diseases, and other contagious ailments will be allowed to enter China.
• (Z) Type: Study Visa
  For students planning to study in China for more a couple of months he/she can opt for an (X) Visa. This single entry type of visa has a validity period of 3 months. Its holder should pass through standard procedures given by the local security department in 30 days after arriving in China.