Visa Information

Before You Apply

Practical guidance for journalists preparing to work, report and remain in China.

Visa Categories

Understand visa categories, application steps and supporting documents.

Official Requirements

Check current requirements with the relevant Chinese embassy or consulate.

Member Support

Members can contact the Club for signposting and professional support.

J1 Visa

J2 Visa

The J1 category is intended for resident foreign journalists working for foreign news organisations stationed in China. It applies where the intended period of stay exceeds 180 days.

Source: Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America

The J2 category is intended for foreign journalists travelling to China for short-term news coverage, with an intended stay of no more than 180 days.

Source: Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America

After entering China with a J1 visa

The J2 category is intended for foreign journalists travelling to China for short-term news coverage, with an intended stay of no more than 180 days.

Source: Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America

Before applying

Applicants should confirm:The correct visa category for the planned assignment.The supporting documents required from the employing news organisation.Any invitation, notification or approval documents required by the relevant authorities.The process applicable at the Chinese embassy, consulate or visa centre serving the applicant’s place of residence.Post-arrival registration and residence-permit requirements.

Official guidance

Current visa applications should be completed through the official Chinese visa application system and the appropriate embassy, consulate or authorised visa centre.

Club disclaimer

The Club cannot sponsor visas, issue press credentials or guarantee the approval of an application. Members may contact the Club for general community guidance, but all formal matters must be handled through the applicant’s employer and the relevant authorities.