Family visas
Chinese China Q Visa (Family of Chinese Citizens and Permanent Residents)
For family members of Chinese citizens and of foreigners holding permanent residence in China. The Q1 is for long-term residence and the Q2 for short visits.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The 180-day Q1/Q2 threshold and the 30-day post-entry residence-permit deadline are official; entries, validity and the precise document list are set by the mission and are not stated here as fixed figures. No fee amount is stated.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official China government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Q Visa (Q1 long-term / Q2 short visit)
- Route type
- Family visa
- Q1
- Long-term family reunion (intended stay over 180 days)
- Convert to a family-reunion residence permit within 30 days of entry
- Q2
- Short family visit (up to 180 days)
- Duration of stay marked on the visa; no residence permit needed
- Family tie required
- To a Chinese citizen, or a foreigner with permanent residence in China
- Where to apply
- Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate, via COVA
Who can apply
- Family members of Chinese citizens
- Family members of foreigners with permanent residence in China
What you can do
- Join family in China for long-term residence (Q1)
- Visit relatives in China for a short stay (Q2)
Requirements
- A family relationship with a Chinese citizen, or with a foreign national holding permanent residence in China
- A passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages
- A completed, printed and signed online application form with one recent white-background passport photo
- An invitation letter from the inviting Chinese citizen or permanent resident
- Proof of the family relationship (for example a marriage, birth or kinship certificate)
How to apply
- Obtain the invitation letter and relationship documents from your family member in China
- Complete the COVA application form at consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA and upload your documents
- Submit your passport, the signed confirmation page and supporting documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate when prompted, and pay the fee
- For a Q1 (long-term) visa, apply for a family-reunion residence permit at the local exit-entry administration within 30 days of entering China
Documents you may need
- Original passport plus a photocopy of the bio-data page
- Printed, signed COVA confirmation page and a recent passport photo
- Invitation letter from the inviting Chinese citizen or permanent resident
- A photocopy of the inviter's Chinese ID card, or the foreigner's permanent residence permit
- Original certification of the family relationship (marriage / birth / kinship certificate)
Frequently asked questions
Q1 is for long-term family reunion, where the intended stay is more than 180 days, and requires converting to a residence permit within 30 days of entry. Q2 is for short family visits of up to 180 days and carries its permitted stay on the visa itself.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.