Visa & Entry Requirements by Country in Ürümqi, Xinjiang, China
1. Chinese Tourist Visa
Required for most foreign travelers. It allows multiple entries into China within a specific period.
- Application Process: Can be done online or in-person at the Chinese embassy
- Validity Duration: Varies depending on the purpose and duration of stay
- Required Documents: Includes a valid passport, completed application form, recent photo, and proof of funds
2. Xinjiang Travel Permit
Required for travel to Ürümqi and other parts of Xinjiang due to regional security measures.
- Application Process: Can be arranged through a local travel agency or tour guide
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a specific duration and area within Xinjiang
- Restrictions: May restrict travel to certain areas or require an escorted tour
3. Foreigner's Work Permit
Required for foreigners intending to work in Ürümqi. It should be obtained prior to arrival.
- Employment Requirement: Must have a job offer from a local employer
- Application Process: Involves both the employer and the foreigner, with documents submitted to the Bureau of Exit-Entry Administration
- Renewal: Must be renewed annually and requires submission of updated documents
4. Foreigner's Residence Permit
Required for foreigners staying in Ürümqi for more than 6 months. It serves as a proof of legal residency.
- Application Process: Involves submission of various documents at the local Public Security Bureau
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a year and can be renewed annually
- Renewal Requirements: Includes proof of employment, accommodation, and sufficient funds
5. Xinjiang Border Pass
Required for travel to certain border areas of Ürümqi due to regional security measures.
- Application Process: Can be arranged through a local travel agency or tour guide
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a specific duration and area within the border region
- Restrictions: May restrict travel to certain areas or require an escorted tour
6. China Group Tourist Visa
For groups of tourists traveling together. It allows multiple entries into China within a specific period.
- Application Process: Can be done online or in-person at the Chinese embassy
- Validity Duration: Varies depending on the purpose and duration of stay
- Group Size: Minimum of 5 people required to apply for a group tourist visa
7. Xinjiang Travel Guide Service
Required when traveling independently in Ürümqi and other parts of Xinjiang due to regional security measures.
- Arranging a Guide: Can be arranged through a local travel agency or online
- Cost: Typically includes the guide's fee, accommodation, transportation, and meals
- Flexibility: Allows for customization of itinerary within certain boundaries
8. China Transit Visa
Required for travelers passing through Ürümqi en route to another destination. It allows a stay of up to 72 hours.
- Application Process: Can be done online or in-person at the Chinese embassy
- Validity Duration: Lasts for a specific duration, typically up to 72 hours
- Transit Conditions: Traveler must provide evidence of onward travel and accommodation booking at destination
9. Xinjiang Police Registration
Required for foreigners living in Ürümqi. It helps police maintain contact with foreign residents.
- Registration Location: Must be done at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival
- Renewal: Must be renewed annually and requires submission of updated documents
- Importance: Failure to register can lead to fines or deportation
10. Ürümqi Individual Visit Scheme (IVS)
Allows independent travelers from certain countries to visit Ürümqi without a tour guide or group.
- Eligible Countries: Limited to specific countries with good relations with China
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a specific duration and area within Ürümqi
- Restrictions: May restrict travel to certain areas or require an itinerary submission
11. Ürümqi Border Crossing Permit
Required for crossing the border from Ürümqi to Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan.
- Application Process: Can be arranged through a local travel agency or tour guide
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a specific duration and area within the border region
- Restrictions: May require an escorted tour or specific vehicle
12. Ürümqi Public Transport Card
Required for using public transportation in Ürümqi. It can be purchased at ticket offices or convenience stores.
- Cost: Affordable and comes in various credit amounts
- Refundable: Can be refunded at the end of stay, with a small fee deducted
- Convenience: Enables contactless payment for buses, metro, and taxis
13. Ürümqi Sim Card Registration
Required for buying a local SIM card in Ürümqi. It helps police maintain contact with foreign residents.
- Registration Location: Must be done at the local police station within 24 hours of activation
- Renewal: Must be renewed annually and requires submission of updated documents
- Importance: Failure to register can lead to fines or service suspension
14. Ürümqi Hotel Registration
Required for foreigners staying in hotels in Ürümqi. It helps police maintain contact with foreign guests.
- Registration Location: Hotel staff will handle registration upon check-in
- Renewal: May require renewal if staying for an extended period
- Importance: Failure to register can lead to fines or deportation
15. Ürümqi Health Check
Required for some foreigners entering Ürümqi due to health screening measures.
- Application Process: Can be arranged through a local travel agency or tour guide
- Validity Duration: Usually valid for a specific duration and area within Ürümqi
- Restrictions: May require quarantine or isolation upon arrival