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  • China Visa: A How To Understand The Number Of Entries, Period Of Stay, And Validity
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China Visa: A How To Understand The Number Of Entries, Period Of Stay, And Validity

Ikky Ma April 17, 2023 2 minutes read
Q2_Chinese_Visa

In this post, we will explain the connection between the number of entries, period of stay, and validity listed on your China visa.

Summary Table

TermExplanation & Key Points
ValidityThe timeframe during which the holder is permitted to enter China. The visa becomes invalid after this date passes, even if entries remain unused.
EntriesThe number of times the holder may enter China. Marked as 01 (Single), 02 (Double), or M (Multiple). The visa is invalid once all permitted entries are used.
Duration of StayThe maximum amount of time allowed in China per visit, starting the day after arrival. For X1, Q1, Z, D, or J1 visas, this shows as 000, meaning a residence permit must be obtained within 30 days of entry.

Notes:

  1. The visa is no longer valid if:
    • All permissible entries have been made.
    • The validity period has already passed, even if there are still unclaimed entries.
  2. If another trip to China is anticipated, the visa holder should submit an application for a new visa in either scenario.
  3. There are three kinds of entries:
    • 01: Single
    • 02: Double
    • M: Multiple
  4. If the permitted entries on the visa have not been used up, the holder is permitted to enter China at any time before its validity expires (allowed to enter China before midnight Beijing Time on the last date of its validity).
  5. The planned length of the holder’s stay in China cannot exceed the duration specified in the visa.
  6. For holders of X1, Q1, Z, D, or J1 visas, the duration of stay will be showing as 000 which means that 30 days from the date of entry, they must go through the process of acquiring a residence permit at the local public security bureau in China.

About the Author

Ikky Ma

Administrator

For over a decade, Ikky has served as a cultural navigator and practical guide for foreigners building lives in the world's most complex and dynamic society. What began as a personal journey of adaptation has transformed into a mission to demystify China's systems for the international community. Through firsthand experience navigating the intricacies of Chinese bureaucracy, business culture, and daily life, Ikky has developed a unique expertise that blends legal knowledge, cultural insight, and hard-won practical wisdom.

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