When you are working in China, the companionship of your family is crucial. According to Chinese entry-exit administration laws, the spouses, children, parents, and parents-in-law of foreigners holding valid work-type residence permits are eligible to apply for corresponding family visit visas or residence permits.
We understand the importance of having your loved ones by your side. Therefore, we provide a one-stop visa service for family members. Whether for spouses and minor children planning to live in China long-term, or parents visiting for a short period, we formulate the most suitable visa plan based on your specific situation. We assist in preparing complex notarization and authentication materials, ensuring your family enters and stays in China legally and conveniently.
This is the most common category for accompanying family members. Those planning to reside in China for a long term (more than 180 days) should apply for an S1 Visa, which requires exchanging for a Private Affairs Residence Permit after entry. Those planning for short-term visits (less than 180 days) can apply for an S2 Visa.
Under regulations, parents and parents-in-law of foreign employees can also apply for family visit visas. Typically, they apply for an S2 Visa for short-term visits. In some regions and under specific conditions, long-term residence procedures may be available for parents over 60 years old. Please consult the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau for specific policies.
Visa Type Assessment: Accurately determine whether to apply for an S1 or S2 visa based on the family member's identity, age, and planned duration of stay, avoiding application errors.
Document Preparation Guidance: Provide a detailed checklist and重点 (focus on) guiding how to handle notarization and authentication of foreign documents, which is the most error-prone step.
Application Process Assistance: Assist in preparing the full set of application materials and guide or act as an agent for submission to the Chinese Embassy/Consulate (for visa application) or the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau (for residence permit application).
Follow-up Service Support: Assist with accommodation registration, medical examination appointments, and the exchange for a Private Affairs Residence Permit after entry, ensuring full compliance throughout the family's stay in China.
Q: What is the core difference between S1 and S2 visas?
A: The S1 visa is designed for family members planning long-term residence (over 180 days). Holders must exchange it for a Private Affairs Residence Permit at the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau within 30 days of entry. The S2 visa is for short-term visits, typically with a duration of stay not exceeding 180 days, and does not require exchanging for a residence permit.
Q: Can overseas marriage or birth certificates be used directly?
A: No. Proof of kinship issued abroad must be notarized by a local notary public and authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in that country. Additionally, all non-Chinese documents must be accompanied by a Chinese translation issued by a qualified translation company.
Q: Can family members work in China with an S1 or S2 visa?
A: No. S1/S2 visas and Private Affairs Residence Permits only allow holders to reside in China for family visits and do not grant work rights. If family members wish to work, the employer must separately apply for a Work Permit and a Work-type Residence Permit for them.
Q: Can parents apply for long-term residence?
A: Under current regulations, parents typically apply for an S2 visa for short-term visits. Policies regarding long-term residence permits for parents over 60 vary by region. It is recommended to consult your local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau in advance.
Want your family to join you in China as soon as possible? Contact us today to get a professional family visa service plan.
Founded in 2005, FINERISE Consulting has been committed to company registration management, offshore company registration, overseas investment services, foreign investment services, financial and tax agency consulting, intellectual property agency and other fields. Provide relevant professional, fast, intimate, thoughtful, safe, cost-effective services, and be your trustworthy partner! Welcome to consult!
Brilliance Consultants International Limited Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd. Guangzhou Finerise Intellectual Property Service Co., Ltd Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd.Foshan Branch
Guangzhou WeChat
Guangzhou QQ
Foshan WeChat
Foshan QQ
