Visa & residence

X1 if you will study in China for more than 180 days. X2 if you will study for 180 days or less.

Embassy visa categories; Regulations, Article 6Embassy of the PRC in the UK — Visa for China: categories and residence permitsRegulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (English text, National Immigration Administration)

The Chinese Embassy in the UK lists the admission letter from the institution and the "Visa Application for Study in China" form (JW201 or JW202), original or photocopy. Embassies in other countries can add local requirements.

Embassy document list, X1Embassy of the PRC in the UK — How to apply for a visa: documents by category

The Chinese Embassy in the UK lists the admission notice from the institution, original or photocopy. Check the visa page of the mission where you will apply for anything it adds.

Embassy document list, X2Embassy of the PRC in the UK — How to apply for a visa: documents by category

30 days from the date you enter China, if your visa says a residence permit is required, as an X1 does. You apply to the exit/entry administration of the public security organ in the place where you will live.

Law, Article 30Exit and Entry Administration Law of the PRC (English text, National Immigration Administration)Embassy of the PRC in the UK — How to apply for a visa: documents by category

Your passport, the application form with one photo, a letter from your school stating the study period, and your admission or enrolment proof. You apply in person and give fingerprints. A permit valid for a year or more also needs a health certificate.

NIA service guide, section 6; Regulations, Article 16National Immigration Administration — service guide for foreigners' residence permits (Chinese)Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (English text, National Immigration Administration)

The Chinese Embassy in the UK states that failing to apply within 30 days of entry counts as illegal overstay.

Embassy FAQEmbassy of the PRC in the UK — Visa FAQs and answers

Apply within the 30 days before it expires. If a registered detail changes, such as your passport number, apply to update the permit within 10 days of the change.

Law, Articles 32 and 33Exit and Entry Administration Law of the PRC (English text, National Immigration Administration)

You can apply to the local exit/entry administration. An extension counts only for the current entry, and the total extension cannot be longer than the duration of stay the visa first gave you.

Regulations, Article 14Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (English text, National Immigration Administration)

Not in ordinary employment. Students may take part in work-study activities but may not take a job or do business. Off-campus work-study or an internship needs your school's approval and an endorsement on your residence permit first.

Order No. 42, Article 30; Regulations, Article 22Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (English text, National Immigration Administration)