How to Get Your Chinese Visa
as an Au Pair
( X2 Visa Guide)
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Everything you need to apply for your visa with confidence
Planning to become an au pair in China? Here’s everything you need to know about getting your X2 student visa—the official short-term visa that allows you to live with a host family, take Mandarin language classes, and experience daily life in China.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the application process, the documents you need, and how Masons Au Pair supports you before and after your arrival.
Which Visa Do You Need to Become an Au Pair in China?
To join our Au Pair program in China, you will apply for the X2 Student Visa. This short-term visa allows you to stay in China for up to 180 days and is ideal for cultural exchange and Mandarin language immersion.
Unlike tourist visas, the X2 visa is officially tied to your enrollment in our partner language school. It’s safe, legal, and tailor-made for international participants in au pair programs like ours.
We’ll provide your invitation letter and guide you through every step of the application.
Curious about the legal status of being an au pair in China?
👉 Read our full guide on whether au pair programs are legal in China
Application Process
Our Application Process at Masons au Pair
Get your official invitation letter from Masons Au Pair and our partner language school XMandarin to start your visa application
Our Application Process at Masons au Pair
Gather all required documents: valid passport, visa application form, ID photos, and your official invitation letter
Our Application Process at Masons au Pair
Submit your documents at the Chinese Visa Application Center in your country
Our Application Process at Masons au Pair
After processing (usually 1 week) collect your approved visa and passport.
Our Application Process at Masons au Pair
Well done , you did it !
Let the adventure begin !
Documents Checklist
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2 recent passport-size photos
Visa application form (we’ll assist you in completing it)
Invitation letter from our school/agency
Health certificate (if required)
Proof of return flight tickets (if requested)
Masons Au Pair Supports You
We prepare and send you the required official invitation letter.
We help you fill out your visa application properly.
We provide full personalized support during your visa process
We’re here to answer all your questions — every step of the way.
Masons Au Pair Supports You
We prepare and send you the required official invitation letter.
We help you fill out your visa application properly.
We provide full personalized support during your visa process
We’re here to answer all your questions — every step of the way.
FAQ
What visa do you need to be an au pair in China?
To become an au pair in China, you need an X2 student visa.
This short-term visa is specifically designed for cultural exchange programs, including au pair placements in China.
It allows you to stay up to 180 days, attend Mandarin language classes, and live legally with a host family.
The X2 visa is the only recommended option for a safe and legal au pair visa in China.
What is an S2 visa in China?
The S2 visa is a short-term visit visa in China, typically granted to relatives of foreigners working or studying in the country.
It is not suitable for au pair programs and cannot be used for cultural exchange or education-based placements.
If you plan to be an au pair in China, the X2 visa is the correct and legal option.
What is a D visa in China?
The D visa is the Chinese permanent residence visa — it’s intended for foreigners who plan to live in China permanently.
It has nothing to do with au pair programs or cultural exchange.
If you are applying to become an au pair in China, this visa does not apply to your situation.
You should focus on the X2 student visa, which is designed for short stays and study-based activities.
What are the key differences between Au Pair visas and other visas for China?
The au pair visa for China is a student visa (X2), specifically designed for short-term cultural exchange.
Unlike tourist (L) or business (M) visas, the X2 visa allows you to legally live with a Chinese host family, attend Mandarin classes, and engage in non-paid educational activities.
Other visas don’t permit childcare or cultural immersion and may place you at legal risk if used for au pair purposes.
How do the requirements for an Au Pair visa in China vary by program duration?
The main requirement that changes with program duration is the length of visa validity.
Short programs (under 90 days) may require fewer documents, while longer stays (90–180 days) demand a full set: school registration, return flight proof, and often a health certificate.
No matter the duration, we ensure your au pair visa China application is compliant and complete.
Why might applying for the wrong visa type affect my Au Pair experience in China?
sing the wrong visa — such as a tourist visa — for au pair purposes is illegal in China and could result in fines, deportation, or being blacklisted.
Only the X2 student visa is appropriate for cultural exchange and language study.
Choosing the correct au pair visa in China ensures you’re safe, supported, and legally protected throughout your stay.
How can I ensure I meet all the official documentation requirements for a China Au Pair visa?
Masons Au Pair helps you prepare everything needed for your au pair visa to China.
We provide your official invitation letter, support with school registration, and assist with your visa application form.
You’ll also receive a checklist for passport validity, photos, and return flight proof.
With us, the documentation process is simple and stress-free.
What are the legal options for working as an Au Pair in China under different visa categories?
Legally, au pair work in China must be done under an X2 student visa linked to a certified language school.
Other visas (like tourist or business) do not allow you to live with a host family or engage in educational exchange.
Working outside of these rules is considered illegal employment.
To work as an au pair in China legally, you must apply through a licensed program that provides the correct visa.