China Visa Types

How do I know Which Visa I need?

A Chinese visa is a permit issued by the Chinese visa authorities to an alien for entry into, exit from or transit through China. The Chinese visa authorities may issue a Diplomatic, Courtesy, Service or Ordinary Visa to an alien according to his status, purpose of visit to China or passport type.
The ordinary Visa consists of eight sub-categories, they are C, D, F, G, J-1, J-2, L, X and Z.:

C Visa: Issued to crewmembers to perform duties on board an international train, airliner or other vessel, and their accompanying family members.
D Visa: Issued to an alien who comes to reside permanently in China
F Visa (Business): Issued to an alien who is invited to China for a visit, an investigation, a lecture, to do business, scientific-technological and culture exchanges, short-term advanced studies or Intern practice for a period of no more than six months
G Visa (Transit): Issued to an alien who transits through China
J-1 Visa: Issued to foreign residen correspondents in China
J-2 Visa: Issued to foreign correspondents who make short trips to China on reporting tasks
L Visa (Tourist/Family visit): Issued to an alien who comes to China for sightseeing, family visiting or other private purpose
X Visa (Study): Issued to an alien who comes to China for study, advanced studies or intern practice for a period more than six months
Z Visa (Work/Employment): Issued to an alien who comes to China for a post or employment, and his/her accompanying family members.