China (CN)
China is one of the world's largest economies and most important expat destinations, combining global business hubs such as Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou with deep history, fast infrastructure, and a highly digital daily-life ecosystem.
Visa & Immigration
Entry and residence options for China.
✈️ Visa-Free Access
China has expanded unilateral and mutual visa-free entry for selected nationalities and operates 24-hour and 240-hour visa-free transit policies for eligible travellers transiting to a third country. Work, study, journalism, and long-term residence still require the correct visa before arrival.
Rules change frequently and local implementation is decisive. Always confirm with the Chinese consulate, National Immigration Administration, employer HR, and the city work-permit bureau before relying on a route.
Work Visa
Foreigners with employer sponsorship and a Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit.
Usually 4-10 business days at consulate after work-permit notice is issued
- ✓Passport
- ✓Visa application form
- ✓Photo
- ✓Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit
- ✓Employer invitation documents
- ✓Authenticated degree and criminal record where required
Business Visa
Commercial visits, meetings, trade fairs, and short business trips.
Usually 4-10 business days
- ✓Passport
- ✓Invitation letter from Chinese business partner
- ✓Itinerary
- ✓Application form
Talent Visa
High-level foreign talent urgently needed by China, often category A profiles.
Can be faster than standard categories
- ✓Talent confirmation letter
- ✓Passport
- ✓Application form
- ✓Supporting professional credentials
Student Visa
Students admitted to Chinese universities or schools.
Usually 4-10 business days
- ✓Admission notice
- ✓JW201/JW202 where applicable
- ✓Passport
- ✓Medical documents for long-term study
Family Reunion / Private Affairs
Family of Chinese citizens/permanent residents (Q) or family/private affairs related to foreign workers/students (S).
Usually 4-10 business days
- ✓Relationship certificate
- ✓Inviter ID/residence documents
- ✓Passport
- ✓Invitation letter
Tourist Visa
Tourism for visa-required nationals.
Usually 4-10 business days
- ✓Passport
- ✓Itinerary or invitation
- ✓Hotel/flight information
- ✓Application form
No general digital nomad visa
Digital NomadChina does not offer a standard remote-worker visa for foreigners employed by overseas companies while living long-term in China.
N/A
- ✓Use an appropriate visa for the actual purpose of stay
- ✓Get professional advice before remote work from China
Visa & Immigration
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