The S1 visa is for foreigners who intend to stay in China for more than 180 days to visit family members who are foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other permitted purposes, or to handle other private affairs.
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Who Qualifies
- Spouses, parents, children under 18, or parents-in-law of foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other reasons
- Foreigners coming to China for other private matters, with supporting documentation
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 the foreigner residing in China, including:
- Applicant and inviter’s personal details
- 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 passport and valid Chinese residence permit
- Documentation for other private affairs, 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
- S1 visa holders must apply for a residence permit at a local public security bureau within 30 days of entry
- The S1 visa is typically single-entry
- Consular officers may request an interview or additional documents