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Tools / X1 or X2 visa check

X1 or X2 visa check

Study of more than 180 days needs an X1 visa; 180 days or less, an X2. Enter your dates and the tool also lists what you must do after you enter China. Rules were checked on 11 October 2026.

Your study period

Where will you live?

Result

Enter the length of your study to see which visa applies. The rule itself is in the table below.

The tool applies the published 180-day line and lists the published steps. It does not decide a visa: Chinese embassies and consulates decide visa applications, and public security exit/entry administrations decide residence permits.

The rule the tool applies

This is the list published by the Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom. The visa categories are national, but each mission can add local requirements: read the visa page of the embassy or consulate where you will apply.

X1X2
Issued toIssued to those who intend to study in China for a period exceeding 180 days.Issued to those who intend to study in China for a period of no more than 180 days.
Documents
  • The admission letter issued by the college, university or other educational institution in China.
  • The "Visa Application for Study in China" form (JW201 or JW202), original or photocopy.
  • For elementary-stage students only: the confirmation form for elementary-stage students issued by the relevant Chinese authorities.
  • The admission notice issued by the college, university or other educational institution in China, original or photocopy.
After entry Apply for a residence permit for study within 30 days of entry. No residence permit step. Stay within the duration printed on the visa.

Sources

Toolkit Assistant