Application Guide for Long-Term Private Affairs Visa (S1 Visa
The S1 visa is a type of visa issued by China to foreigners who need to stay in China for an extended period due to personal matters. It primarily applies to close relatives of foreigners residing in China for work, study, or other reasons, as well as other individuals approved for long-term stays for private affairs.
It should be noted that the S1 visa is an entry visa and not a long-term residence permit.
After entering China, visa holders must still apply for a private affairs residence permit.
The S1 visa mainly applies to:
- Spouses of foreign nationals working in China;
- Parents of foreign nationals working in China;
- Children under 18 years of age of foreign nationals working in China;
- Parents of spouses of foreign nationals working in China;
- The aforementioned close relatives of foreign students studying in China;
- Individuals requiring long-term stays for other personal matters.
Generally, the following materials are required:
- A valid passport;
- A visa application form and photograph;
- An invitation letter;
- Photocopies of the inviter’s passport and residence permit;
- Proof of kinship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.);
- Other supplementary materials as requested by the embassy or consulate.
The invitation letter typically includes information about the applicant, purpose of visit to China, length of stay, relationship between both parties, and arrangements for expenses.
Step 1: Prepare Application Materials
Invitations, residence documents, and relevant supporting papers are prepared by the foreign national residing in China.
Step 2: Apply for the S1 Visa
Submit application materials to the Chinese embassy or consulate abroad, or to a visa application service center, and complete the required procedures accordingly.
Step 3: Enter China
After obtaining the S1 visa, enter China within its validity period. The S1 visa usually allows for a single entry.
Step 4: Register Accommodation
Upon checking into a hotel or staying with friends or relatives, register accommodation as required by law.
Step 5: Apply for a Private Affairs Residence Permit
After entering China with the S1 visa, apply within 30 days to the local public security bureau’s immigration department for a private affairs residence permit. Once granted, you may reside long-term and make multiple entries and exits within the permit’s validity period.
1. The S1 visa is intended for those planning to stay in China for more than 180 days.
2. After entry, a private affairs residence permit must be obtained within the prescribed time limit.
3. Proof of kinship is a key document for review; overseas documents may require notarization and authentication.
4. Holders of the S1 visa or private affairs residence permit generally cannot work directly in China. If employment is desired, they must legally obtain a work permit and a work-related residence permit.
5. Approval for “other private affairs” cases is determined on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended to consult the embassy or consulate or the immigration authorities in advance.