The Q1 visa is for foreigners who intend to stay in China for more than 180 days to reunite with family members who are Chinese citizens or foreigners with permanent residence in China, or for foster care.
Back to the overview of all China visas.
Who Qualifies
- Spouses, parents, children, children’s spouses, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, and parents-in-law of Chinese citizens or foreigners with Chinese permanent residence
- Foreigners entering China for foster care
Required Documents
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months, with at least 2 blank visa pages)
- Completed Visa Application Form (COVA), printed and signed
- Recent passport photo (color, white background, taken within the last 6 months)
- Proof of legal stay/residence (if applying outside your country of citizenship)
- Invitation letter from a Chinese citizen or foreign permanent resident in China, including:
- Personal details of applicant and inviter
- Purpose and duration of visit
- Relationship between applicant and inviter
- Inviter’s contact information and signature
- Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate, notarized documents)
- Copy of inviter’s Chinese ID or foreign permanent residence permit
- Additional documents for foster care, if applicable
Application Process
- Complete the COVA online visa application form and print all pages
- Gather all required documents
- Book an appointment at your local Chinese embassy, consulate, or visa center (if required)
- Submit your application in person or via an authorized agent; provide fingerprints if required
- Wait for processing (typically 4–7 business days, but can vary)
- Collect your passport and visa or arrange for return by mail if available
Special Notes
- Q1 visa holders must apply for a residence permit at a local public security bureau within 30 days of entry
- The Q1 visa is typically single-entry
- Consular officers may request an interview or additional documents