If you’ve just received your China visa, you might wonder what all the codes, terms, and stamps look like and mean. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or applying again after a few years, reading your China visa correctly is important for a smooth trip.
Let’s explain each section of a China visa and help you avoid misunderstandings that could cause travel delays.
What a China Visa Page Looks Like
So, what exactly does a China Visa look like? China visas are typically affixed to one of the pages inside your passport. The visa takes up most of the page and includes printed text in English and Chinese. Each visa is labeled with official details that tell you:
- Your visa type (tourist, business, student, etc.)
- Number of entries
- Validity period
- Maximum duration of each stay
- Entry deadlines
- Your name, birth date, and passport number
Understanding what each section means is key to following the visa’s rules while in China.
Visa Type: What the Letter Means
The most noticeable part of your visa is a letter—like L, M, or Z, which refers to the visa category. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types:
- L Visa: Tourist visa, used for sightseeing and visiting friends.
- M Visa: Business visa, used for short-term trade or commercial activity.
- Z Visa: Work visa, issued to those employed in China.
- X1/X2 Visa: Student visas (X1 is for long-term studies, X2 for short-term).
- S1/S2 Visa: Family members of foreign workers or students.
- Q1/Q2 Visa: Family reunion visas for visiting Chinese relatives.
The type of visa determines what you’re allowed to do while in the country. For example, you cannot work on an L visa or attend school on an M visa.
Entries: How Many Times Can You Enter China
Your visa will show the number of entries you’re allowed:
- Single entry: You can enter China once. Once you leave, the visa is no longer valid.
- Double entry: You can enter twice during the validity period.
- Multiple entries: You can enter as many times as you want during the valid period for your visa.
Look for the label that says Entries or “次” in Chinese, followed by a number or the word “M” for multiple.
Validity Period: When You Can Use the Visa
The validity period tells you the date range during which you can use the visa to enter China. It’s usually listed in the format YYYY-MM-DD to YYYY-MM-DD.
For example, if your visa is valid from 2025-06-01 to 2025-12-01, you can enter China anytime within that range.
Important note: This is not the same as the length of time you can stay in China. That’s listed separately.
Duration of Stay: How Long Can You Stay Per Entry?
Each entry comes with a maximum duration of stay, usually listed in days. This tells you how long you can remain in China after each entry.
For instance, if your visa says Duration of Each Stay: 30 days, and you enter on July 1st, you must exit or renew your visa by July 30th, even if it is still valid.
Overstaying your duration can result in fines, legal trouble, or even being barred from reentering China.
Name, Birth Date, and Passport Number
These fields must match exactly what’s listed in your passport. If you notice an error, such as a misspelled name or wrong birth date, immediately contact the visa-issuing authority or your visa service provider.
Remarks and Special Instructions
Some visas include a Remarks section with specific conditions, such as:
- Entry city restrictions
- Required registration within 24 hours of arrival
- Notes about sponsorship or employment
Pay attention to this section, especially for work and student visas.
Why Reading Your China Visa Correctly Matters
Misreading your visa can lead to:
- Denied boarding at the airport
- Fines or overstaying penalties in China
- Visa cancellations or problems with future applications
If you’re unsure how to interpret any part of your visa, it’s best to ask for help before you travel.
Need Help Understanding or Applying for Your Visa?
The China Visa Department helps travelers apply for China visas from anywhere in the U.S.—even if they don’t live near a consulate. Our experts guide you through each process and help you avoid costly mistakes.
How We Help
- We verify your documents and help you select the right visa type.
- We submit your application in person to the correct consulate for your state.
- We will guide you online or by phone to complete all the paperwork.
- We ship your visa back to you securely with tracking.
We also assist with reapplications, expedited requests, and difficult-to-navigate cases such as business, student, or work visas.
Final Thoughts: What does a China Visa Look Like
Reading your China visa properly is the first step to a stress-free trip. Make sure to check the visa type, entry limits, validity, and stay duration before booking travel or making plans.
If you need help applying for a visa—or want someone to double-check that your China Visa looks right—the China Visa Department is here to help.