China's ordinary visa system consists of multiple categories, each designated by a letter code corresponding to the purpose of visit. Below is a comprehensive overview of all visa types, including the newly added K visa effective from October 1, 2025.
Complete List of Chinese Visa Categories
1. Crew C
Issued to crew members on international transportation (aircraft, trains, ships) and cross-border vehicle drivers. Duration varies.
2. Resident D
Permanent residence in China, Long-term/Permanent.
3. Noncommercial Visit F
Issued to aliens who are invited to a lecture, scientific-technological & cultural exchanges, study tours, inspections. Usually up to 180 days.
4. Transit G
Issued to aliens who are going to a third country in transit through PRC China. Typically limited.
5. Journalist J1
Issued to foreign journalists for the purpose of reporting from PRC. Stay over 180 days.
6. Journalist J2
Issued to foreign journalists for the purpose of reporting from PRC. Stay ≤180 days.
7. STEM K
NEW (Oct 2025) Issued to foreign young science and technology talents with STEM degrees. Special flexibility.
8. Tourist L
Issued to aliens who are going to PRC for tourism purposes. Duration varies.
9. Business M
Issued to aliens who are going to PRC for business, commercial and trade activities. Duration varies.
10. Family Reunion Q1
Issued to relatives of Chinese citizens or foreigners with permanent residence permit residing in PRC. Stay Over 180 days
11. Family Reunion Q2
Issued to relatives of Chinese citizens or foreigners with permanent residence permit residing in PRC. Stay ≤180 days.
12. Talent R
Issued to high-level talents and urgently needed specialists. Duration varies.
13. Private Visit S1
Issued to family members of foreigners residing in China for work, study, etc. Stay Over 180 days
14. Private Visit S2
Issued to short-term visit to foreigners working/studying in China. Stay ≤180 days.
15. Student X1
Issued to aliens who are going for study, furthering studies. Over 180 days
16. Student X2
Issued to aliens who are going for study, furthering studies. Stay ≤180 days.
17. Work Z
Issued to aliens who are going for a post or employment in China. Varies requires residence permit.