Visa to China

• All foreign residents entering China must have a visa.
• he main classes of visas in China are:
  - A 'D' Visa - intended for anyone who intends to live permanently in China.
  - An 'F' Visa - intended for those entering China for up to 6 months for business, research purposes, etc.
  - A 'G' Visa - intended to permit transit through China.
  - An 'X' Visa - intended for entry for study and advanced study purposes for over 6 months.
  - A 'Z' Visa - intended for a foreign resident who intends working in China.
• A visa is usually issued in the offices of the Chinese Representation in foreign countries.
  In certain circumstances the visa may be obtained at points of entry into China, including when a foreign resident arrives for a visit to a professional exhibition, for signing a business agreement, for examining business data, etc.

Residential Permits

• Residential permits are issued for a period of up to 5 years. The permit may be extended without restriction on the number of occasions.
  Usually, each extension is for one year.
• In order to obtain a residential permit, the appropriate health certificates must be produced.
  A foreign resident who wishes to open an independent business in China is not required to invest any minimum capital in China.
  The only requirements are that he obtains a work permit and a permit to reside in China.