Q Visa: Applying for Residence Permit

China Q1 Visa is issued to foreigners that are family members* of a Chinese citizen or foreigners holding a Chinese permanent residence permit. Upon entry to China, holders of Q1 Visa should apply for a residence permit within 30 days after date of entry.

*Family members: spouses, parents, parents of spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, and spouses of children

Documents needed for applying residence permit for Q1 Visa holders

  1. Passport with valid Q1 visa
  2. Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form
  3. Registration Form Of Temporary Residence (obtained from applicant’s local police stations in China)
  4. Two 2-inch colour photo with white background
  5. Inviters Identification document, one of either:
    1. Chinese ID card / 身份证
    2. Foreign passport and permanent residence permit (for foreigners holding a Chinese permanent residence permit)
  6. Letter stating the family relationship signed by the inviter
  7. Foreigner Physical Examination Form
  8. Certificates to prove the family relationship (Original and photocopy) such as:
    1. Chinese marriage certificate
    2. Birth Certificate
    3. Adoption Certificate
    4. Note: For certificates issued outside of China, the certificates must be translated and authenticated by Chinese Embassy/Consulate within the last 6 month

Application Process

Application

Applicant submit documents at the exit and entry departments and complete relevant formalities.

Acceptance

Immigration office accepts and reviews the document. If the application complies with the conditions for acceptance, the applicant will be given an acceptance receipt. The decision for residence permit issuance will be made within the validity period of the acceptance receipt. The validity period of the acceptance receipt is at most 15 working days after the date of acceptance.

Review

The Exit-Entry Department verifies the authenticity of the application reasons through interviews, telephone inquiries, field investigations and other means, and confirm whether the applicant is of foreign nationality.

Decision

If the conditions and standards are met, the residence permit will be issued

Document collection

Applicant brings the acceptance receipt to the exit and entry department and collect their passport

Finding Halal Foods in China

China is a fascinating country, full of vibrant culture, history, and delicious cuisine. However, finding halal food can be a challenge for Muslims living, studying, or traveling in China. Navigating the food scene in China can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the local cuisine. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks for finding halal food in China, so you can enjoy the country’s rich culinary traditions while staying true to your dietary restrictions.

Look for “Qingzhen” Restaurants (清真餐厅)

“Qingzhen” is the Chinese word for halal, and “Qingzhen” restaurants are Muslim-owned restaurants that serve halal food. In Chinese, “Qingzhen” is written as “清真” and you can often spot these characters on restaurant signs or menus.

Tips for Dialogue: How to Let People Know You Need Halal Food

If you’re not sure whether a restaurant serves halal food or not, you can use the following phrases to ask:

  • “Nǐmen de fàn shì qīngzhēn ma?” (你们的饭是清真吗?) – “Is your food halal?”
  • “Wǒ bù chī zhū ròu, nǐmen de cài dōu shì qīngzhēn de ma?” (我不吃猪肉,你们的菜都是清真的吗?) – “I don’t eat pork meat, are all your dishes halal?”
  • “Wǒ yào chī qīngzhēn de” (我要吃清真的) – “I want to eat halal food”

Look for Halal Certifications

Some restaurants may display a halal logo or certificate, indicating that their food is halal. The China Islamic Association is responsible for issuing halal certificates, so look for their logo on menus or in the restaurant. However, be aware that some restaurants may display fake halal certificates, so it’s always best to do your own research as well.

Cook Your Own Food

If you’re having trouble finding halal food, you can always cook your own food at home. Many supermarkets in China carry halal ingredients, and you can also find halal meat at some butchers or online stores. Cooking your own food can be a great way to ensure that your food is halal and to experiment with different Indonesian and Chinese recipes.


In conclusion, finding halal food in China is possible with a little bit of effort and some knowledge of the local cuisine. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and being open to new experiences, you can enjoy the diverse and delicious culinary scene that China has to offer while staying true to your dietary restrictions. Don’t be afraid to explore Qingzhen restaurants, use halal food apps, and engage in dialogue with locals to find the best halal food options for you. We hope these tips and tricks will help make your time in China a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience!

Different Types of Chinese Visa

China is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and a hub for business travellers. To enter China, you need a visa, which is a document issued by the Chinese government that allows you to enter, leave, and stay in China for a specified period. There are different types of Chinese visas, and understanding each one is essential before planning your trip. In this article, we will explore the various types of Chinese visas and their requirements.

L Tourist Visa

The tourist visa, also known as the L Visa, is the most common type of visa for people traveling to China for tourism purposes. This visa allows you to stay in China for up to 30 days and is valid for three months from the date of issue. You can apply for this visa if you are traveling to China for sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or engaging in other non-business activities.

Z Work Visa

The work visa, also known as the Z Visa, is issued to people who are planning to work in China. To obtain this visa, you must have a job offer from a Chinese employer and a work permit issued by the Chinese government. This visa allows you to stay in China for up to 90 days and can be extended after arriving in China.

X Student Visa

The student visa (X visa) is issued to individuals who intend to study in China. This visa is typically valid for the duration of the study program and must be converted to a residence permit upon arrival in China. To apply for an X visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and an admission letter from a Chinese university or school.

Q Family Visa

The family visit visa (Q visa) is issued to individuals who intend to visit family members living in China. This visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days and can be converted to a residence permit if the visitor plans to stay in China for more than six months. To apply for a Q visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and proof of relationship with the Chinese resident.

S Private Matter Visa

The private visit visa (S visa) is issued to individuals who are visiting friends or family members in China for personal reasons. This visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days and can be converted to a residence permit if the visitor plans to stay in China for more than six months. To apply for an S visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and proof of relationship with the Chinese resident.

M Business Visa

The business visa, also known as the M Visa, is issued to people traveling to China for business purposes. This visa allows you to stay in China for up to 60 days and is valid for three months from the date of issue. You can apply for this visa if you are attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts in China.

F Visits/Exchange Visa

The non-commercial visit visa, also known as the F visa, is issued to individuals who need to enter China for non-commercial business activities such as attending conferences, conducting business negotiations, or participating in trade fairs. This visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days and can be used for single or multiple entries. To apply for an F visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and an invitation letter from a Chinese company or organization. Additional documentation such as proof of business registration or tax records may be required.

J Journalist Visa

The journalist visa (J visa) is issued to individuals who are working as journalists or correspondents for foreign news organizations in China. This visa is typically valid for 180 days and can be used for single or multiple entries. To apply for a J visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and a letter from your employer or news organization confirming your employment and purpose for visiting China. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a press card or proof of professional qualifications.

G Transit Visa

The transit visa, also known as the G Visa, is issued to people who are transiting through China on their way to another destination. To obtain this visa, you must provide proof of your onward travel, such as a flight ticket or visa for your final destination. This visa allows you to stay in China for up to 72 hours or up to 144 hours depending on your itinerary.

C Crew Visa

The C visa is issued to foreign crew members of means of international transportation, including aircraft, trains and ships, or motor vehicle drivers engaged in cross-border transport activities, or to the accompanying family members of the crew members of the above-mentioned ships.

R High-level Talent Visa

The talent visa (R visa) is issued to individuals who have been recognized as high-level talents in certain fields, such as science and technology, economics, and education. This visa is typically valid for 180 days and can be used for single or multiple entries. To apply for an R visa, you’ll need to provide a passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a completed visa application form, a recent passport photo, and a certificate of recognition as a high-level talent issued by the Chinese government.

D Permanent Residence Visa

The permanent residence visa (D visa) is issued to individuals who plan to reside permanently in China. This visa requires a more rigorous application process, including a review of the applicant’s background, education, and work experience. Once approved, the D visa holder can apply for a permanent residence permit in China.

Major Purpose of Visit

Visa Categories

Description of Visa

Exchanges, visits, study tours and other activities

F

Issued to those who are invited to China for exchanges, visits, study tours and other activities.

Commerce & Trade

M

Issued to those who are invited to China for commercial and trade activities.

As a tourist

L

Issued to those who are going to travel to China for tourism.

Family reunion, foster care or visiting relatives with permanent residence in China

 

Q1

Issued to those who are family members of Chinese citizens or of foreigners with Chinese permanent residence and intend to go to China for a long-term family reunion, or to those who intend to go to China for the purposes of foster care (intended duration of stay in China exceeding 180 days).

 

“Family members” refers to spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters and parents-in-law.

Q2

Issued to those who intend to visit relatives who are Chinese citizens residing in China or foreigners with permanent residence in China; the intended duration of stay is limited to no more than 180 days.

Visiting relatives working or studying in China or other private affairs

S1

Issued to relatives of foreigners working or studying in China for the purpose of long-term visit, or to those who intend to visit China for other private reasons (intended duration of stay exceeding 180 days).

 

“Relatives” refer to spouses, parents, sons or daughters under the age of 18 years and parents-in-law.

S2

Issued to those wishing to visit family members that are foreigners working or studying in China, or to those who intend to go to China for other private reasons.  The intended duration of stay in China is limited to no more than 180 days.

 

“Family members” refers to spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters and parents-in-law.

Employment

Z

Issued to those taking up a post or employment, or giving commercial performances, in China.

Commercial performances

Transit

G

Issued to those who are going to transit through China en route to a third country (or region).

As a crew member or a motor vehicle driver

C

Issued to foreign crew members of aircraft, trains and ships, motor vehicle drivers engaged in cross-border transport activities, and also to the accompanying family members of the above-mentioned ships’ crew members.

As a student

X1

Issued to those intending to study in China for a period of more than 180 days.

X2

Issued to those intending to study in China for a period of no more than 180 days.

As an introduced talent

R

Issued to those who are high-level qualified talents or whose skills are urgently needed by China.

As a journalist

J1

Issued to resident foreign journalists/media staff of foreign news organizations stationed in China. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days.

J2

Issued to foreign journalists/media staff on temporary news coverage missions.  The intended duration of stay in China is limited to no more than 180 days.

Permanent Residence

D

Issued to those who are going to reside in China permanently.