Chinese Academic Visa (F-Visa) for Cultural and Scientific Purposes
The China Academic Visa (F-Visa) is for non-commercial stays such as short-term guest lectures, conferences, research stays, and participants in music and art competitions.
The Academic Visa is issued for the exact period specified in the invitation letter or for stays up to 90 days. With an official invitation (Duly Authorised Unit), stays of up to 180 days are possible. For stays exceeding 180 days, a work visa is generally required.
Key Details
| Purpose of Travel | Non-commercial "business trips" |
| Duration of Stay | Variable, depending on the invitation |
| Number of Entries | Variable, depending on the invitation |
| Validity Period | Variable from issuance until entry into China |
Required Documents
- Completed visa application (exclusively online since May 2019)
- Coloured biometric passport photo against a light background (approx. 1.4 × 1.8 inches)
- Passport with at least 6 months validity and one blank page (two for double/multiple entries)
- Formally correct invitation from a non-commercial organisation registered in China (e.g., university, research institution, museum). Must include: full address and telephone on letterhead, name, duration of stay, and birthdate of invitee — signed and officially stamped. Issued in China and can be emailed as a scan (original not required).
For multiple entries or an annual visa, provide an official invitation (Duly Authorised Unit) from your partner institution, which must be applied for at the relevant Chinese authority.
Validity and Duration
The China Academic Visa typically grants entry for 90 days from issuance. From entry, it is valid for a specified period or for 30, 60, or 90 days (with official invitation: up to 180 days). For double-entry visas, both entries must occur within 90 days of issuance. A one-time extension is generally possible at the local police station.
Apply for Chinese Visa