Guide to Applying for Int’l Student Residence Permits in China

  

Source: OT-Team(G)

This is a comprehensive guide for international students on applying for student residence permits in China, designed to help you navigate the process smoothly from initial entry to extensions, annotations, and stay permits.

I. Applying for a Student Residence Permit After Initial Entry

International students entering China for study should hold a valid ordinary passport and either an X1 or X2 visa. If your visa indicates that a residence permit is required after entry, you must apply for a foreigner's residence permit at the local exit-entry administration office of the Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 30 days of your arrival.

Important:

Students entering China without a visa under a visa exemption policy cannot directly apply for a student visa or residence permit. You must leave China and re-enter with an X1 or X2 visa before proceeding with the residence permit application.

(1)X1 Visa: For long-term study (over 180 days)

(2)X2 Visa: For short-term study (180 days or less)

1.Required Documents

(1)Valid passport or international travel document and original visa

(2)Completed Foreigner Visa and Residence Permit Application Form

(3)Photo that meets the requirements outlined in the "Photo Guide for Exit-Entry Documents"

(4)For X1 visa holders: Original admission letter from the school indicating the study duration and enrollment certificate；for holders of other visa types: Additional certification from the competent authority is required

The PSB may issue a residence permit matching the study duration indicated by the school.

(5)Any other necessary supporting documents (e.g., temporary residence registration form)

(6)For residence permits valid over one year, a valid physical health certificate issued by a local public health authority or a county-level (or higher) medical institution is required

2.Application Process

Applicants must submit all documents in person at the local exit-entry administration of the PSB.

If your application is accepted, you will receive a receipt of acceptance. The decision to issue the residence permit will be made during the validity period of this receipt.

If your application is incomplete or does not meet legal requirements, you will be informed once of the additional steps or materials required.

3.Notes

(1)Chinese universities generally issue enrollment certificates after students complete registration. Entering China too early may leave insufficient time to apply for a residence permit.

(2)While your passport or travel document is held during the application, the receipt of acceptance allows you to stay legally in China.

II. Extending Your Student Residence Permit

Once you have obtained your student residence permit, make sure to note the expiry date. If you continue studying in China beyond that date, you must apply for an extension.

You should apply for the extension at least 30 days before your current permit expires. Applications must be submitted to the local PSB exit-entry administration with all required documents related to your continued study.

If your reason for extension is valid and reasonable, the extension will be approved. The fee is the same as for the initial application.

III. Adding an "Internship" Annotation to Your Permit

According to the National Immigration Administration's Service Guide, international students holding a valid student residence permit who wish to engage in part-time work or off-campus internships must apply for an annotation on their residence permit.

To do so, you must submit:

1.A letter of consent from your school

2.A letter of consent from the internship provider

These documents must be submitted to the local PSB exit-entry administration.

IV. Applying for a Stay Permit After Graduation

If you hold a student residence permit and are unable to leave China before it expires after graduation or completion of your program, you may apply for a stay permit.

If you hold an X2 visa and have valid reasons (e.g., continued study) to stay beyond the original allowed duration, you may apply for an extension of stay without changing your visa type.

Applications must be made at least 7 days before the visa's expiration at the local PSB exit-entry administration.

1.Required Documents

(1)Valid passport or international travel document

(2)Completed visa application form and one photo meeting the official standards

(3)Supporting documents related to the reason for the stay

(4)Other necessary documents as required

2.Application Process

Applicants must go in person to the local PSB exit-entry administration.

If the application meets the acceptance criteria, a receipt of acceptance will be issued. The decision will be made during the receipt's validity period.

3.Notes

(1)Applications can also be submitted on behalf of the applicant by an inviting organization or individual, a relative, or a recognized service agency, if allowed by relevant regulations.

(2)If you're unable to leave China due to objective reasons before your stay permit expires, you may apply for a replacement. The same application process and document requirements apply.