If you plan to study in China, then know the important rules from visa to work permit.

In recent years, China has emerged as a major destination for Indian students for higher education, especially in the fields of medical (MBBS), engineering and technology. Affordable tuition fees, international-class laboratories and globally ranked universities attract students. However, it is mandatory to follow many legal and administrative procedures from entering China till completing your studies there. If you too are dreaming of going to China to study, then before starting the application process, it is important to understand all the guidelines related to visa categories, residence permit and work permit in detail so that you do not have to face any administrative problems in the future.

1. Categories of Student Visa (X1 and X2 Visa)

‘X’ category visas are mainly issued to international students to enter China for studies. It is divided into two parts based on the period of study:

• X1 Visa (Long Term Study): This visa is for students whose study program lasts more than 180 days (6 months), such as a degree course or long-term language program. The X1 visa allows entry only for a certain period of time, after which it is mandatory to obtain a residence permit upon arrival in China.

• X2 Visa (Short-Term Study): If you are going for an exchange programme, short-term course or summer school whose duration is less than 180 days, you need to apply for an X2 visa. It usually does not require a residence permit.

2. Documents required for visa application

Students are required to submit the following primary documents when applying at a Chinese Embassy or Visa Application Center (VFS):

• Valid Passport: Which has a minimum validity of at least 6 months and has blank pages available.

• JW201 or JW202 Form: This is an official visa application form issued by the Ministry of Education of China and sent by the university to the student.

• Admission Notice: Official admission letter issued by a Chinese university or college.

• Medical Fitness Report: It is mandatory to complete the prescribed health examination (Foreigner Physical Examination Form) before reaching China.

• Financial Proof: Bank statement or scholarship letter of being able to afford your studies and living expenses.

3. After arriving in China: Residence permit and registration

The legal procedures after reaching China on X1 visa are very important. It is important to keep in mind the deadlines as soon as you set foot on Chinese soil:

• Temporary Residence Registration: Students are required to register their residence with the local police station within 24 hours of arriving in China. If you are staying in a university hostel, this process is usually completed by the hostel administration.

• Residence Permit: X1 visa holders are required to apply for a study-residence permit at the local Exit-Entry Administration (PSB) within 30 days of entry into China. This permit allows you to make multiple entries during the period of study.

4. Work Permit rules while studying in China

The rules for part-time work in China are quite strict for international students. No student can engage in illegal employment or business activity without prior permission.

• Part-Time Work and Internship: Students are allowed to undertake on-campus or authorized internship (off-campus internship) along with their studies only if their university and local Public Security Bureau (PSB) provide written consent for the same.

• Permission Process: For this, it is mandatory to obtain NOC from the university and get a special endorsement for ‘Part-time work/Internship’ on the residence permit.

• Strict punishment: If found working without permission, strict action can be taken like heavy fine, cancellation of visa and deportation from China.

5. Provision of work visa (Z Visa) after completion of studies

If students want to make a career there after completing graduation or post-graduation in China, then they have to convert the student visa into working visa (Z Visa). The Chinese government has in recent years relaxed work permit rules for international students who graduate with excellent grades from Chinese universities. Master’s degree or doctorate holders may also be allowed employment in eligible companies without the requirement of two years of work experience.