The S2 visa is for foreigners who intend to visit family members who are foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other permitted purposes, or to handle other private affairs, for a short stay of no more than 180 days.
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Who Qualifies
- Family members of foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other reasons
- Those visiting for litigation, inheritance, real estate, medical treatment, or other private matters
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
- S2 visas are typically issued as single or multiple-entry visas, with each stay not exceeding 180 days
- For longer stays or residence, apply for an S1 visa
- Consular officers may request an interview or additional documents