By: Seomul Evans
Submitted: 2009-08-23 16:27:59 | Word Count: 508
All citizens and residents of the US wishing to travel to and in China must obtain a travel to China visa. However, there are six different types of china visa and it is important to make sure you get the correct one to avoid major difficulties with the Chinese government resulting from not having the proper paperwork while moving around in the country. The six types of travel in China visas are as follows:
Type L (tourist) visa – This is the type of visa issued to US citizens or residents who wish to visit China for the purpose of tourism, visiting family or friends, or for purely personal reasons. Tourists possessing a type L visa are not permitted to work or engage in any business activities while in the country.
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Type F (business) visa – This type of visa is required of anyone seeking to conduct an investigation, give a lecture, participate in a technological, scientific, or cultural exchange, conduct business, or participate in advanced studies of a duration less than six months. Students on a type F visa may participate in an unpaid internship, but may not work in the country.
Type Z (work) visa – This is the type of visa required by anyone planning to accept employment in China. This person’s dependents will also be issued a type Z visa.
Type X (Student) visa – This visa is required of students wishing to attend college in China to pursue higher education. The time allowed depends on the time frame for the course of study. Within thirty days of arrival, this visa must be converted to a Residence Permit by the Public Security Bureau in the town the student will be living/studying in. Proof of enrollment in a course of study and the length of the course must be provided.
Type C (crew) visa – This is a special type of visa only issued to flight crews who come into China and leave again the same day for work purposes. An overnight stay may be allowed, but extended stays in China are not permitted with a crew visa.
J1/J2 (News Media) visa – This is the type of visa issued to journalists and news agencies seeking admission to China for the purpose of covering news events. How long the visa will be good (how long the journalists can remain in China) will be determined at the time of issuance and is never more than a few months.
The reason for the visit to China determines which type of China visa is required. The rules governing each visa type are strict and must be adhered to completely or one will face criminal charges and or immediate deportation. When planning to travel to China, it is important to know the type of visa needed and submit the proper application forms and supporting documentation to make processing the application and issuing the correct visa as quick and easy as possible for the Chinese consulate and so that you will know the terms under which you are allowed to visit the country.
