Who can apply

An X (study) visa is issued to individuals intending to study in China.

There are two categories: 

• X1 visa: For long-term study of more than 180 days 
• X2 visa: For short-term study of no more than 180 days 

How to apply

Follow the application requirements of the Chinese embassy or consulate in the country where you are applying. Complete the visa application form online and submit the required application materials.

Documents required

Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check the "Guidance on Visa Application" section of the China Online Visa Application or the website of the Chinese embassy or consulate handling your application. 

Basic application materials include:

• A valid passport.
• A completed visa application form and a passport photo.
• Proof of legal stay or residence status. 
• A previous Chinese passport or Chinese visa, where applicable. 

Additional materials 

For an X1 visa:

1.The original and a photocopy of the admission notice issued by an admitting institution in China

2. The original and a photocopy of the "Visa Application for Study in China" (Form JW201 or JW202)

For an X2 visa:

The original and a photocopy of the admission notice issued by an admitting institution in China

Click here for more details on the required application materials.

Note: X1 visa holders must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of entering China at the exit-entry administration of a public security organ at or above the county level in their intended place of residence.

Visa extension, replacement, and reissuance

If you wish to extend an X2 visa, replace a visa, or have your visa reissued after entering China, you can submit an application to the Exit-Entry Administration Corps of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau or an exit-entry administration office of a district branch of the bureau.  

For an X2 visa extension, apply at least seven days before the authorized period of stay expires and submit a letter confirming your current enrollment issued by an education or training institution in China. The period of stay may be extended for no more than 180 days, and the total extension may not exceed the original period of stay specified in the visa.

A decision on whether to issue the visa will be made within the validity period of the acceptance receipt, which is no more than seven working days from the date of acceptance.

Related: Shanghai exit-entry bureau locations, business hours

Check more details on the website of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau.

Service hotline

If you have questions about immigration or visa services in Shanghai, please call +86-21-12367.

Related: Tips on obtaining an internship endorsement in China

Updated Aug 11, 2026

Sources: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Immigration Administration, Exit-Entry Administration Corps of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau