
Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Nanjing, China
1. Chinese Tourist Visa
A visa for foreign tourists intending to stay in China for a short period. Required for most nationalities visiting Nanjing.
- Application Process: Applications can be made at Chinese embassies or consulates abroad.
- Validity Duration: Tourist visas are usually valid for 3 months from the date of issue, with a maximum stay of 60 days.
- Requirements: Required documents include a passport valid for at least six months, completed application form, and proof of financial means.
2. Transit Visa
For foreigners who wish to transit through China for a short period. Useful for flights with layovers in Nanjing.
- Time Limitations: Transit visas allow stays of up to 72 hours, if transiting at a designated city.
- Application Process: Applications can be made online or at Chinese embassies or consulates abroad.
- Requirements: Required documents include a passport valid for at least six months, onward/return ticket, and proof of financial means.
3. Business Visa
For foreigners visiting Nanjing for business activities such as meetings, conferences or negotiations.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for a single stay of up to 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the type.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese company or organization with an invitation letter.
- Extensions: Extensions are possible within the validity period of the visa.
4. Work Visa
For foreigners seeking employment in Nanjing for a specified period.
- Duration of Stay: Typically valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese employer and approved by the local Public Security Bureau.
- Work Permit: Upon approval, a work permit will be issued, allowing you to legally work in China.
5. Student Visa
For foreign students planning to study in Nanjing for over 6 months.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for the duration of your studies, up to five years.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese educational institution and approved by the local Public Security Bureau.
- Residence Permit: Upon arrival, you will receive a residence permit allowing you to legally stay in China.
6. Journalist Visa
For foreign journalists covering events or reporting on Nanjing.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese media organization or the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China.
- Work Permit: A work permit may also be required depending on your specific circumstances.
7. Private Affairs Visa
For foreigners visiting China for reasons such as attending funerals or handling family affairs.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for a single stay up to 30 days.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese family member or relative, along with relevant documents.
- Requirements: Required documents include a passport valid for at least six months and proof of the private affair reason.
8. Crew Visa
For foreign crew members working on international flights departing from Nanjing.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for the duration of your employment contract.
- Application Process: Applications are usually made through your airline or shipping company.
- Work Permit: A work permit may also be required depending on your specific circumstances.
9. Talent Visa
For highly skilled foreigners planning to work in Nanjing in areas such as science, education, sports, and art.
- Duration of Stay: Typically valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted through a Chinese employer and approved by relevant authorities.
- Work Permit: Upon approval, you will receive a work permit and residence permit allowing you to legally work in China.
10. Residence Permit
For foreigners who have obtained a work, student, or permanent residence visa and wish to reside in Nanjing.
- Duration of Stay: Valid for the duration of your stay in China.
- Application Process: Applications must be made through your local Public Security Bureau and approved by relevant authorities.
- Renewal Requirements: Residence permits must be renewed every year or as required.
11. Exit-Entry Administration Law
The main Chinese law governing entry and exit of foreigners.
- Importance: Provides the legal framework for foreigner entry, exit, residence, and employment in China.
- Amendments: Regularly amended to adapt to changes in Chinese immigration policy.
- Understanding for Foreigners: Understanding this law is essential for foreigners planning to visit or live in China.
12. Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Nanjing
The embassy responsible for Chinese diplomatic relations and consular services in Nanjing.
- Diplomatic Relations: Provides support for diplomatic matters between China and other countries.
- Consular Services: Handles visa applications, passport issuance, and notarial services.
- Emergency Assistance: Provides assistance to Chinese citizens and foreigners in emergency situations.
13. China Visa Application Center (CVAC)
An agency providing convenient visa application services for travelers to China.
- Service Convenience: Allows you to apply for a Chinese visa without visiting the embassy directly.
- Application Processing Time: Processes applications more quickly than traditional methods, often within 48 hours.
- Service Fees: Charges a service fee for its services, in addition to the visa application fee.
14. Nanjing Public Security Bureau
The local Chinese authority responsible for public security matters, including foreigner registration and residence permits.
- Registration Requirements: Foreigners residing in Nanjing are required to register with the Public Security Bureau within 24 hours of arrival.
- Residence Permit Issuance: Issues residence permits for foreigners living in Nanjing, usually valid for one year.
- Police Services: Provides various police services to residents of Nanjing, including safety assistance and crime prevention.
15. Nanjing Exit-Entry Administration Bureau
The local authority responsible for foreigner entry, exit, and residence matters in Nanjing.
- Foreigner Management: Manages the entry, exit, and residence of foreigners in Nanjing.
- Visa Applications: Handles visa applications submitted by foreigners in Nanjing.
- Work and Residence Permits: Issues work and residence permits for foreigners living and working in Nanjing.