After completing your application process with Next Step China, you will need to apply for a Chinese visa.  Depending on your citizenship, there are private companies that can help you obtain a visa.  However, we will also guide you on how to obtain a visa from your nearest Chinese Consulate.

The process is very simple.  After we have received your application, we will advise which visa to obtain. If you are enrolled at a university, you will be receiving from us two very important documents – an admissions notice from the university and a JW202 Student Visa form.  These are the necessary documents necessary for obtaining  an F visa.

Whether you use a company or go to the Consulate yourself, you will need your passport (must be valid for 15 months beyond your stay and with a blank visa page), 2 (two) passport photos (please bring additional photos to China), the JW202 form, and the admission notice.

If you plan on traveling to China using Next Step China for leisure purposes, you will be asked to apply for a tourist visa which is most commonly referred to as an L visa.

Below is a description of the visa classes as per the Chinese government.

Visas usually granted for those applying with the Beijing Language and Culture University Program, Tsinghua University Program or Peking University Program

F Visa:

Also known as a business visa, an F visa is issued to applicants who are invited to China for business, research, lecture, scientific-technological and culture exchanges, short-term advanced studies, or intern practice for a period of no more than six months.

X Visa:

A student visa, issued to applicants who go to China for the purpose of study, advanced studies, or intern practice for a period of more than six months.

Visa usually granted for those who want to participate in self-study or the accommodations program

L Visa:

The most popular type of China visa, an L visa is also known as a tourist visa. It is issued to those who visit China for tourist purposes, family visit, or other personal matters.

1. Complete a visa application form, which can be obtained from your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate. It can also be downloaded from the official website of the Chinese Embassy of your country.

2. Two 2X2” passport photos3. Your current passport with at least two blank visa pages, and it must be must be valid for 15 months beyond your stay and with a blank visa page.

Please take note that it is important that you have the necessary documents with you when you travel to China, or entry will be denied.

Fees for your visa can vary from one country to another, but details can be obtained from the website of the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Regular processing time for a visa is 4 (four) working days. Do not wait until the last minute to complete your visa application.