A Chinese tourist visa, sometimes called an L-visa, is given to people visiting China on holiday or to see family members there. To apply for a tourist visa, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months and has an available blank page for the visa. You must complete and include a visa application form and must include a 2x2-inch black-and-white or color photograph glued or stapled to the application form. You may apply for a single-entry visa, good for a single stay; a dual-entry visa allowing you to enter China twice, which is valid for six months; or a multiple-entry visa good for six to 12 months.
If you are residing in Japan and plan on studying in China, you'll need an X-visa. The requirements are similar to those for a tourist visa, but you also may be asked to provide a letter of acceptance from a Chinese university or school. It's a good idea to apply for the visa in person to answer any questions about your application. Student visas are generally good for three months. You must register with local authorities in your school's locality upon arriving in China, and those authorities will adjust your visa status.
Business visas, or F-visas, are granted for people wanting to lecture, do business, perform research or take part in scientific or cultural exchanges in China. F-visas are virtually identical to tourist visas, but they carry an authorization to perform business, educational, or research work. As with a student visa, it's a good idea to apply in person to answer any questions. You may be asked for supporting documentation, such as a letter of invitation from a business, school or other organization.
