China Q1 Visa (Family Reunion Long-Term) Complete Guide 2026

The Q1 Visa is China's long-term family reunion visa, designed for family members of Chinese citizens or foreigners with Chinese permanent residence who plan to stay in China for more than 180 days. Unlike short-term visit visas, the Q1 Visa leads to a residence permit that allows extended stays measured in years rather than days.

The Q1 Visa is a single-entry visa valid for 30 days from the date of entry. Within those 30 days, you must apply for a residence permit at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry Administration. The residence permit—not the Q1 Visa itself—determines your actual stay duration in China.

This visa category was created to facilitate family reunification and is distinct from the Q2 Visa, which is for short-term family visits of up to 180 days. Choose Q1 if you plan to live in China with family for an extended period; choose Q2 for visits measured in weeks or months.

Family members of Chinese citizens: You may apply for a Q1 Visa if you are the spouse, parent, parent-in-law, child, child's spouse, sibling, grandparent, or grandchild of a Chinese citizen with household registration (hukou) in China.

Family members of foreign permanent residents: You may also apply if your family member is a foreigner holding a Chinese Permanent Residence ID Card (外国人永久居留身份证). The same family relationship categories apply.

Who does NOT qualify: Distant relatives, friends, unmarried partners, and former spouses do not qualify for Q1 Visa. They would need to apply for other visa types such as L Visa (tourism) or S Visa (private affairs) depending on circumstances.

Special cases—adopted children: Foreign children adopted by Chinese citizens or permanent residents may qualify for Q1 Visa. Additional documentation including adoption certificates and possibly nationality verification will be required.

Q1 Visa (long-term): For stays exceeding 180 days. Single entry, valid for 30 days after entry, then convert to residence permit. Residence permits can be valid for 1-5 years and allow multiple entries. Best for those planning to live in China with family.

Q2 Visa (short-term): For stays up to 180 days per visit. Available as single, double, or multiple entry with validity from 3 months to 10 years. No residence permit required. Best for occasional visits rather than relocation.

Choose Q1 when: You plan to live in China long-term, you need to work or study while in China (after obtaining appropriate permits), you want the convenience of a residence permit for extended family life.

Choose Q2 when: You need flexibility for occasional visits, your stay is under 180 days, you don't want the administrative burden of residence permit application, or you maintain your primary residence outside China.

1. Valid passport: Original passport with at least 6 months validity and 3-4 blank visa pages. Copies of the bio page and any previous Chinese visas.

2. Visa application form: Complete the COVA online form at COVA portal. Print and sign the completed form. All information must match your passport exactly.

3. Photo: One recent 2-inch (33mm x 48mm) color photo with white background, front-facing, no hat or glasses. Must be taken within the last 6 months.

4. Invitation letter from the family member in China: The letter must include: inviter's full name, ID number, relationship to applicant, purpose of visit, intended duration of stay, address in China where applicant will reside, and inviter's signature and date. The letter should be addressed to the Chinese consulate or visa center.

5. Inviter's identification documents: If the inviter is a Chinese citizen: copy of Chinese ID card (both sides) and household registration (hukou). If the inviter is a foreign permanent resident: copy of Foreign Permanent Residence ID Card and passport bio page.

6. Proof of family relationship: This is the most critical document. Acceptable proof includes: marriage certificate (for spouses), birth certificate (for parent-child relationships), notarized kinship certificate from local authorities, or notarized declaration of relationship. Documents issued outside China may require authentication by Chinese embassies or consulates.

7. Health certificate: Required for stays over 6 months. Must be issued by a designated medical institution or foreign medical institution recognized by Chinese authorities. The certificate should be valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. Inside China, this is the Foreigner Physical Examination Record (外国人体格检查记录).

8. Proof of legal residence (if applying outside your home country): If you are applying for the visa in a country where you are not a citizen, provide proof of legal residence such as a valid visa, residence permit, or work authorization.

9. Previous Chinese passports (for former Chinese citizens): If you previously held Chinese citizenship, you must submit your original Chinese passport and a copy of the bio page. This is required for the first application after acquiring foreign citizenship.

The relationship proof is often the most scrutinized part of the Q1 Visa application. Requirements vary by relationship type and whether documents were issued in China or abroad.

Spouse (marriage relationship): Submit the original marriage certificate. If married outside China, the certificate may need to be authenticated by the Chinese embassy or consulate in the country where it was issued. Some jurisdictions require translation and notarization.

Parent-child relationship: Birth certificate showing parent names is the primary document. For adult children applying, some consulates also request notarized proof that the relationship continues. Adopted children must submit adoption certificates.

Siblings: Birth certificates of both siblings showing shared parents, or household registration records from before separation. Sibling relationships often require additional verification.

Grandparents/grandchildren: Birth certificates establishing the chain of relationship (your birth certificate showing your parent, and their birth certificate showing your grandparent).

Documents issued outside China: Foreign-issued documents often require: notarization in the issuing country, authentication by the Chinese embassy or consulate in that country, and certified Chinese translation. Check with your local Chinese consulate for specific requirements.

Document authentication process: For documents issued outside China: (1) Get the document notarized by a local notary public, (2) Have it authenticated by the relevant government authority (e.g., Secretary of State in the U.S.), (3) Submit to the Chinese embassy or consulate for authentication. This process can take 2-4 weeks.

Step 1: Gather all required documents. Start with the relationship proof, as authentication of foreign documents can take weeks. Request the health certificate early, as some examinations require appointments.

Step 2: Have your family member in China prepare the invitation letter. The letter should be specific about dates, relationship, and accommodation. Include the inviter's contact information for verification purposes.

Step 3: Complete the COVA online application. Visit COVA portal, create an account, fill in all information accurately, and upload required documents. Double-check every field—errors can cause delays.

Step 4: Submit documents for pre-review (if applicable). Some consulates require online document submission before accepting your physical passport. Wait for confirmation before proceeding.

Step 5: Schedule an appointment at the visa center. Book your appointment through the COVA system or your local Chinese Visa Application Service Center. Bring all original documents and photocopies.

Step 6: Attend the appointment and submit biometrics. First-time applicants must provide fingerprints and have a digital photo taken. Some applicants over 70 or under 14 may be exempt from fingerprinting.

Step 7: Pay the visa fee. Fees vary by nationality. For U.S. citizens, the fee is $140. Check with your local consulate for specific payment methods and amounts.

Step 8: Wait for processing and collect your passport. Standard processing is 4-5 business days. The Q1 Visa will be a single-entry visa valid for 3 months from the issue date.

Critical timeline: You must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of entering China on a Q1 Visa. The Q1 Visa itself only allows a 30-day stay—failing to apply for the residence permit in time will result in overstaying.

Where to apply: Visit the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau (出入境管理局) of the Public Security Bureau in the city where your family member resides. Major cities have dedicated foreigner service windows.

Documents required for residence permit: Valid passport with Q1 Visa, completed residence permit application form, photo, registration form of temporary residence (from your hotel or local police station), invitation letter and inviter's ID documents, relationship proof documents, health certificate (valid for 6 months), and any additional documents requested by local PSB.

Residence permit duration: Family reunion residence permits are typically issued for 1-5 years. The exact duration depends on local policies, the inviter's circumstances, and the applicant's situation. Spouses of Chinese citizens often receive longer permits initially.

Processing time for residence permit: Usually 10-15 working days. You will receive a pickup slip when submitting your application. Your passport stays with the PSB during processing, so plan accordingly.

Multiple entries: The residence permit allows unlimited entries during its validity period. You can leave and re-enter China without needing a new visa.

For Q1 Visa and residence permit applications, you must submit a health certificate issued by a designated medical institution. The certificate must be valid (issued within 6 months) and cover specific examination items.

If obtaining outside China: Use a medical institution recognized by Chinese authorities. Some Chinese consulates provide a list of approved clinics. The examination typically includes: physical examination, chest X-ray, blood tests (including HIV and syphilis), and other standard health screenings.

If obtaining inside China: Visit the International Travel Healthcare Center (国际旅行卫生保健中心) or a designated hospital. Major cities have facilities specifically for foreigner health examinations. Bring your passport and several photos.

Items examined: The Foreigner Physical Examination Record includes: medical history, physical examination (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.), chest X-ray for tuberculosis screening, ECG (for applicants over certain age), blood tests for infectious diseases, and other examinations as required.

Validity period: The health certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. Plan your application timeline accordingly—a certificate that expires before you apply for the residence permit will require re-examination.

Cost: Health examination fees vary by location but typically range from 300-800 RMB in China. Outside China, costs vary significantly by country and institution.

Former Chinese citizens: If you previously held Chinese nationality, you must submit your original Chinese passport when applying. The first Q1 Visa after renouncing Chinese citizenship may face additional verification.

Dual nationality concerns: China does not recognize dual nationality. If you acquired foreign citizenship without properly renouncing Chinese citizenship, your application may be delayed or rejected. Resolve nationality issues before applying.

Applying while in China: If you entered China on a different visa type (such as L or Q2) and want to switch to Q1, you typically cannot do so without leaving China. Some exceptions exist for family emergencies—consult local PSB for guidance.

Inviter's hukou location: You should apply for the residence permit in the city where your family member's hukou is registered. If you want to live in a different city, additional steps may be required.

Relationship verification delays: Consulates may verify relationship claims, especially for extended family members. This can add weeks to processing time. Ensure all documents are complete and properly authenticated.

Inviter not in China: If your Chinese family member is currently abroad, you may face difficulties. Some consulates require the inviter to be physically present in China with valid registration.

When to renew: Apply for renewal at least 30 days before your current residence permit expires. Late applications may result in overstaying penalties.

Where to renew: Return to the same PSB Exit-Entry Administration where you obtained your initial permit, or the local PSB if you have moved to a different city.

Documents for renewal: Valid passport with current residence permit, completed renewal application form, photo, updated registration form of temporary residence, inviter's ID documents, and proof of continued relationship. A new health certificate may be required for permits over 1 year.

Duration of renewed permits: Subsequent permits may be issued for longer durations based on your history of compliance. Spouses of Chinese citizens with stable family situations often receive 3-5 year permits.

If your situation changes: Report changes in address, family circumstances, or inviter's status within 10 days to the local PSB. Failure to report changes can affect future renewals.

Travel during renewal: You can apply for a travel endorsement that allows you to leave and re-enter China while your renewal is being processed. Ask about this option when submitting your renewal application.

What you CAN do: Live in China for the duration of your residence permit, leave and re-enter China multiple times, enroll children in local schools (with additional registration), access healthcare (consider health insurance), open bank accounts, and register for local services.

What you CANNOT do without additional permits: Work (requires work permit and Z Visa or work-type residence permit), study at a university (requires X Visa), or engage in any income-generating activities not permitted by your residence type.

Changing to work status: If you want to work in China, you must apply for a work permit and convert to a work-type residence permit. This process is separate from your family reunion status and requires employer sponsorship.

Path to permanent residence: Long-term family reunion residence permit holders may eventually qualify for permanent residence. Requirements include: being married to a Chinese citizen for at least 5 years, having resided in China for 5 consecutive years with at least 9 months each year, and demonstrating stable income and residence.

Family responsibilities: Your Chinese family member acts as your sponsor. They may be contacted if there are issues with your stay, and they have certain legal responsibilities regarding your presence in China.

Phase 1—Document preparation (start 1-2 months early): Prepare relationship proof documents, get foreign documents authenticated if needed, request health certificate from designated institution, and ask family member to prepare invitation letter with copies of their ID.

Phase 2—Online application: Complete COVA form at COVA portal, upload all required documents, and schedule appointment at visa center.

Phase 3—In-person submission: Bring passport, printed application form, photos, invitation letter, inviter's ID copies, relationship proof, health certificate, and proof of legal residence (if applicable). Provide fingerprints and pay visa fee.

Phase 4—After visa issuance: Enter China within the visa validity (3 months), register accommodation within 24 hours, apply for residence permit within 30 days at local PSB, and bring all original documents plus additional copies.

Phase 5—Residence permit: Wait 10-15 working days for processing, collect passport with residence permit, verify dates and details, and set reminder for renewal 30 days before expiration.

COVA visa application portal: https://consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/

China visa types overview: https://cs.mfa.gov.cn/wgrlh/lhqz/lhqzjjs/

Beijing PSB residence permit guide: https://italian.beijing.gov.cn/personal/residencepermit/family/202511/t20251111_4271833.html

Shanghai residence permit FAQ: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-ResidencePermit/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal: https://www.mfa.gov.cn/eng/

National Immigration Administration: https://en.nia.gov.cn/