X2 Visa

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X2 Student Visa for China — Short-Term Study (≤180 Days) | Masons Au Pair

X2 Student Visa for China — Short-Term Study (≤180 Days)

The X2 visa is for short-term study in China, typically programs of ≤ 180 days (one semester or language courses under six months). It’s simpler than X1 and does not convert into a Residence Permit. If your course is longer, see our Related Guides or compare options here: Get Your Chinese Visa.

Who It’s For

  • One-semester university exchanges or visiting student programs.
  • Short language/skills courses (e.g., Mandarin intensives).
  • Exam prep or research visits not exceeding 180 days.

Main purpose must be study. For au pair or work-like placements, read: Is Au Pair in China Legal?

Documents Checklist (Typical)

Identity & Forms

  • Passport valid 6+ months with blank visa pages.
  • Completed visa application form + recent passport photo to spec.
  • Photocopy of passport data page and any previous China visas.

School Documents

  • Admission/Enrollment Notice from the Chinese school.
  • JW201/JW202 form if your school/center requires it (some X2 cases don’t).
  • For minors or special cases: consent/guardian docs as requested.

Follow your school & local visa center checklist exactly. Keep digital scans of all paperwork.

How to Apply (Before Travel)

  1. Confirm your application point (CVASC/consulate) and read their checklist.
  2. Complete the online form → print & sign; prepare a compliant photo.
  3. Book an appointment → bring passport, photo, school documents, and any extras (insurance, funds, etc.).
  4. Submit (biometrics if required) → pay fee → collect passport or arrange courier return.

Timelines/fees vary by country/season. Applying 1–2 months before start date is comfortable.

After Arrival in China

Address Registration

  • Hotels register you automatically at check-in.
  • Private home/dorm: complete local police registration promptly (ask your school for the exact window & slip).

Health & Insurance

  • X2 usually doesn’t require a residence-permit medical. Some schools still ask for a basic health check/insurance.
  • Carry passport photos; some offices request extra.

Unlike X1, no Residence Permit step for standard X2 stays.

Duration, Entries & Extensions

  • Stay length: Up to 180 days as granted on the visa.
  • Entries: Often single-entry; request double if you plan to leave and re-enter (e.g., Hong Kong/Macau) and justify it.
  • Extensions: Sometimes possible at the Exit–Entry Administration; not guaranteed—plan within your issued stay.
  • Upgrading to long-term: If plans change to >180 days, schools often advise applying for X1 (frequently from outside China).

Work, Internships & Au Pair Notes

  • X2 is for study only. Work/internships require specific authorization and are typically not allowed under X2.
  • If you’re exploring cultural exchange or childcare, read: Is Au Pair in China Legal?

Smart Prep Tips

Before You Fly

  • Save digital copies of your Admission Notice and visa page.
  • Confirm dorm/housing address for registration.
  • Set up payments (WeChat/Alipay) and bring a small cash buffer for the first week.

First Week Checklist

  • Complete police registration (hotel handles this; private housing needs you to go).
  • Attend school orientation; join class WeChat groups for updates.
  • Buy a SIM or eSIM; keep data on for maps and school notices.

Useful Vocabulary

  • 学生签证（X2）— student visa (short-term)
  • 录取通知书 — Admission/Enrollment Notice
  • 住宿登记 — address/police registration
  • 出入境管理局 — Exit–Entry Administration
  • 一次/两次入境 — single/double entry

Get Your Chinese Visa — Step-by-Step

Compare L, X1/X2, Z and more. Timelines, photos, appointments, and pro tips.

Is Au Pair in China Legal?

What’s allowed, compliance basics, and safer alternatives while studying.

FAQ — X2 Visa

What’s the difference between X1 and X2?
X2 is for ≤180 days and typically doesn’t require a Residence Permit; X1 is for longer programs and must be converted to a Residence Permit after arrival.

Do I need JW201/JW202?
Some centers/schools ask for it; others accept the Admission Notice alone. Follow your school’s instructions.

Can I intern or work on X2?
No—X2 is for study only unless explicit authorization is granted.

Can I get multiple entry?
Sometimes. Request it if you plan side trips and provide justification; otherwise assume single-entry.

Can I extend an X2 in China?
Possible in some cities, but not guaranteed. Start early if you’ll need more time.

Need a Clean X2 Checklist?

Masons Au Pair organizes your school letters, appointment, and first-week tasks (registration, insurance) so your short-term study in China is smooth from paperwork to class.

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