China•AsiaS2 Visa (短期私人事务签证)
At a Glance
4 business days
USD $140
Varies (Single, double, or multiple entry; flexible stay duration within 180-day limit)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Short-term visa for family members visiting foreigners working or studying in China, or for private matters such as medical treatment, divorce, or inheritance, for stays of 180 days or less.
The S2 visa was created to facilitate short-term visits for family members of foreigners working or studying in China, or for individuals visiting for other private matters. It fills the gap for those who do not require long-term residency but need to visit for specific personal reasons, such as family emergencies, short-term support, or personal business, with a stay limit of 180 days. This visa provides a streamlined process for temporary entry, ensuring that foreign residents in China can maintain essential family connections without the need for complex long-term immigration procedures.
This visa is for family members of foreigners working or studying in China, as well as those visiting for other private affairs. It is ideal for spouses, parents, children, and other relatives who need to visit for a limited period. What makes the S2 distinctive is its versatility; it covers both family visits and other private matters, such as inheritance or real estate issues, and it does not require the holder to apply for a residence permit, making it a straightforward, temporary solution for short-term stays in China.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Intention to visit immediate family members who are foreigners working or studying in China for a short-term stay (up to 180 days).
Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and 2 blank visa pages.
Invitation letter from the family member in China.
Proof of kinship.
Photocopy of the inviter's passport and residence permit.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Original passport and photocopy of the data page.
Completed and signed visa application form.
Recent color passport photo.
Invitation letter from the family member in China.
Photocopy of the inviter's passport and residence permit.
Proof of kinship (marriage/birth certificate).
Proof of legal residence (if applicable).
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Facilitates family reunification
- Covers various private matters
Worth Knowing
- Not intended for long-term residence; does not lead to a residence permit.
- Consular discretion applies to the duration and number of entries granted.
- Strict requirements for proof of relationship to the foreign resident.
Application Process
Verify family member in China
Confirm family member is in China
Obtain invitation
Get letter from family member or organization
Complete application form
Fill visa application for short-term private visit
Prepare documents
Gather passport, photo, invitation, and supporting documents
Submit application
Submit at embassy/consulate
Pay fee
Pay visa fee
Processing
7 working days processing
Collect visa
Retrieve S2 visa
Related visas
More visas in China
- Q1 Visa (长期团聚签证)
Family
- Q2 Visa (短期探亲签证)
Family
- S1 Visa (长期私人事务签证)
Family
Family visas in other countries
- Orphan Relative Visa
Australia
- Dependent Child Student Visa
New Zealand
- Cultural Joining Visa
Oman
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