Family visas
Chinese China S Visa (Family of Foreigners Working or Studying in China)
For family members of foreigners who are working or studying in China. The S1 covers long-term stays and the S2 short visits.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The 180-day S1/S2 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
- S Visa (S1 long-term / S2 short visit)
- Route type
- Family visa
- S1
- Long-term visit to a foreigner in China (intended stay over 180 days)
- For close family such as spouse, parents and children; convert to a residence permit within 30 days of entry
- S2
- Short family visit (up to 180 days)
- Wider family members; duration of stay marked on the visa
- Inviter must be
- A foreign national working or studying in China
- Where to apply
- Chinese Visa Application Service Center or Chinese embassy/consulate, via COVA
Who can apply
- Family members of foreigners working in China
- Family members of foreigners studying in China
What you can do
- Join family who are working or studying in China for a long-term stay (S1)
- Visit family who are working or studying in China for a short stay (S2)
Requirements
- A family relationship with a foreign national who is working or studying 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 foreign national in China you are visiting
- Copies of the inviter's passport bio-data page and China residence permit
- Proof of the family relationship
How to apply
- Obtain the invitation letter, the inviter's document copies 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 an S1 (long-term) visa, apply for a 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 foreign national working or studying in China
- Photocopies of the inviter's passport bio-data page and China residence permit
- Original certification of the family relationship (marriage / birth / kinship certificate)
Frequently asked questions
The S visa is for visiting a foreign national who is working or studying in China. The Q visa is for family of a Chinese citizen or of a foreigner holding permanent residence in China. Both split into a long-term category (S1 / Q1, over 180 days, needing a residence permit) and a short-term category (S2 / Q2, up to 180 days).
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.