How To Apply For A Stay Visa?

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]tay visas are mainly issued to foreigners whose stay has been terminated and who need to stay in China for a longer period of time due to humanitarian and other necessary reasons. For example, foreign travelers who are stranded in China during the pandemic due to flight cancellation.

So, what kind of foreigners can apply?

Let’s find out.

1. WHAT KIND OF FOREIGNERS CAN APPLY?

– Foreigners holding visa-free access who, after entering China, need to stay in China for longer period for reasons other than diplomatic or official duties;

– Foreign crew members and their accompanying family members who need to leave the ship;

– Those who have been aproved to withdraw their Chinese nationality and still need to stay in China;

– Foreigners whose grounds for stay have been terminated and who need to stay in China for longer periods for humanitarian reasons (medical condition, epidemic, etc.);

– Foreign babies born in China who need to stay in China;

– Other cases where an foreigners residence permit is required (applying for a work permit, registering a company).

2. MATERIALS REQUIRED FOR APPLICATION

– The applicant’s original valid passport or visa;

– A completed application form for a visa and residence permit for foreigners;

– Supporting documents consistent with the reasons for the application:

If the foreigners residence has been terminated, proof of the termination of the residence shall be submitted. For example, a certificate of separation or a graduation certificate.

Other supporting documents for reasons to stay:

– Supporting documentation that the work permit is being processed.

– Supporting documents for ongoing business registration.

– Documents provided by the Government, screenshots of online applications or other proofs.

NOTE:

1. When the entry-exit administration of the public security authorities deems it necessary, it may request to interview the applicants or to submit other supporting documents. An application for a stay visa that fails to provide the required information within the prescribed time will be rejected.

2. The processing time for a stay permit application is generally no more than seven working days from the date of acceptance. Therefore, foreigners who need to apply for a stay visa must plan time for processing in advance to avoid illegal stay.