Prepare
Visa & Pre-Departure
Everything you need to prepare for your move to China
Complete Your Profile
Complete your student profile to get nationality-specific visa guidance.
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Obtain JW202/JW201 Form
Your university will issue this official visa application form after you receive admission. This is required for all student visas. Keep the original safe - you'll need it multiple times.
Timeline: After admission
Admission Letter
Official admission letter from your Chinese university. Make several copies - you'll need them for visa, residence permit, and banking.
Timeline: After admission
Valid Passport
Passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank visa pages. Consider renewing if close to expiration.
Timeline: Before application
Physical Examination Record
Complete the official "Foreigner Physical Examination Form" at designated hospitals. Valid for 6 months. Required for residence permit.
Timeline: 1-2 months before departure
Blood Test Certificate
HIV/AIDS test results (usually included in physical exam). Must be recent and from approved facility.
Timeline: 1-2 months before departure
Passport Photos
Bring at least 20 passport-sized photos with white background. You'll need them for various registrations.
Timeline: Before departure
Financial Proof
Bank statements or sponsorship letters showing ability to cover expenses. Some consulates require specific amounts.
Timeline: Before visa application
Travel Insurance
Consider comprehensive health insurance for first few months until you can enroll in Chinese system.
Timeline: Before departure
Arrange Initial Accommodation
Book dormitory through university OR arrange temporary hotel for first week while apartment hunting. University dorms fill quickly.
Timeline: 1-2 months before
Plan for Police Registration
Within 24 hours of arrival, register at local police station. Your hotel/dorm will do this, but if staying with friends, you must go yourself. Crucial for residence permit.
Timeline: Within 24hrs of arrival
Research Phone & Internet
Major carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom. Student plans around ¥50-100/month. Bring unlocked phone.
Timeline: First week
Set Up Payment Apps
WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential. Link to international card initially, then add Chinese bank account. Cash is rarely used.
Timeline: First week
Open Chinese Bank Account
Bring passport, admission letter, and registration form from university. Bank of China, ICBC, or China Construction Bank recommended for international services.
Timeline: First 2 weeks
Apply for Residence Permit
Must be done within 30 days of arrival. University international office will guide you. Costs around ¥400-800. Takes 7-10 working days.
Timeline: Within 30 days
Set Up VPN (if needed)
For accessing blocked websites/apps. Set up before arrival as VPN websites are blocked in China. Check your country's regulations.
Timeline: Before departure
Prepare Document Copies
Make multiple copies of passport, visa, admission letter, JW202. Also keep digital copies in cloud storage.
Timeline: Before departure
Bring Necessary Medications
Bring prescription meds with doctor's note (in English and Chinese if possible). Stock up on any specific medicines hard to find in China.
Timeline: Before departure
Power Adapters
China uses Type A, C, and I plugs (220V). Bring universal adapter or buy locally.
Timeline: Before departure
Important Reminders
- Visa requirements and procedures can change. Always verify with official sources.
- Start your visa application at least 1 month before departure to allow for delays.
- Your university's international student office is your best resource for guidance.
- Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents in multiple locations.