X1 Visa

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X1 Student Visa for China — Who Needs It, Documents, Steps & Residence Permit | Masons Au Pair

X1 Student Visa for China — Who Needs It, Documents, Steps & Residence Permit

The X1 visa is for long-term study in China (typically programs over one academic semester). It’s the entry visa you use to arrive, then you convert it into a local Residence Permit after you land. If your course is short (one semester or less), schools may guide you to the X2 visa instead.

Who It’s For

  • University degree programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) and language study over ~6 months.
  • Exchange or preparatory programs that exceed one semester.
  • Some training or research programs hosted by accredited institutions.

Unsure which visa fits your plan? See our quick overview: Get Your Chinese Visa (Guide).

Documents Checklist (Typical)

Identity & Forms

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

School Documents

  • Admission Notice from your Chinese school.
  • JW201 / JW202 (Visa Application for Study in China) issued by the school/authorities.
  • For minors or special cases: extra consent/guardianship documents as required.

Your school’s international office will tell you exactly which originals/prints to bring. Keep scans on your phone as backup.

How to Apply (Before You Travel)

  1. Confirm your center: Most applicants submit via a Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) or consulate.
  2. Complete the online form → print & sign; prepare photo to size requirements.
  3. Book an appointment and bring: passport, photo, Admission Notice, JW201/JW202, and any supporting docs.
  4. Submit biometrics if required → pay the fee → collect passport by pick-up or courier.

Processing time and fees vary by country/season. Apply early (ideally 1–2 months before your program start).

After Arrival in China (Important)

1) Address Registration

  • Hotels register you automatically.
  • If staying in a private home/dorm, complete local police registration promptly (ask your school for the exact window and slip).

2) Health Check

  • Many cities require a medical exam or validation of your health form for long stays.
  • Bring passport, photos, and past vaccination/medical records if you have them.

3) Residence Permit (Study)

  • Convert your X1 entry visa into a Residence Permit at the Exit-Entry Administration within the time shown on your visa (often 30 days).
  • Your school will provide a checklist and an official letter for this step.
Registration Medical Residence Permit

Work, Internships & Au Pair Notes

  • An X1 is for study. Any work/internship must follow local rules set by your school and authorities.
  • Thinking about au pair or casual childcare while studying? Read: Is Au Pair in China Legal? to understand what is and isn’t allowed.

Extensions, Re-entry & Travel

  • Your Residence Permit acts as a multi-entry visa while valid—confirm this when you collect it.
  • For extensions or program changes, contact your school well in advance; bring your registration slip and updated documents.
  • Keep your passport handy for travel, hotel check-ins, and ticket purchase ID checks.

Smart Prep Tips

Before You Fly

  • Save digital copies of your Admission Notice, JW201/JW202, and visa page.
  • Ask your school about the health check location and photo specs in your city.
  • Set up WeChat/Alipay for payments; carry some cash for first days.

First Week Checklist

  • Do address registration and complete any medical exam.
  • Start the Residence Permit process early; don’t wait until the last minute.
  • Join school WeChat groups for updates on schedules and paperwork.

Useful Vocabulary

  • 学生签证（X1）— student visa (long-term)
  • 录取通知书 — Admission Notice
  • JW201 / JW202 — Visa Application for Study in China form
  • 居留许可 — Residence Permit
  • 出入境管理局 — Exit–Entry Administration
  • 住宿登记 — address/police registration

Related Guides

Get Your Chinese Visa — Step-by-Step

Types (L, X1/X2, Z), timelines, photos, appointments, and practical tips.

Is Au Pair in China Legal?

Understand what’s permitted, best-practice compliance, and safer alternatives.

FAQ — X1 Visa

Do I need both the Admission Notice and JW201/JW202?
Yes—schools typically issue both; follow your school’s checklist.

How soon must I apply for a Residence Permit after arrival?
Within the timeframe printed on your visa (often about 30 days). Start early with your school’s help.

Can I work on an X1?
X1 is for study. Any work/internship requires explicit authorization under local rules.