Depending on the status and type of passport held by a foreign national, a diplomatic, courtesy, business or ordinary visa may be issued. These are designated by identification letters that correspond to the purposes of the individual visit.

Visa Type - Details, Information and Documentation Required

D Issued to a person who plans to reside permanently in China A residence confirmation form applied for by the applicant or an entrusted relative in China at the entry-exit control department of the municipal or county public security bureau where the applicant intends to reside

Z Issued to a person who enters China to take up employment and to that person's accompanying family An "Employment Approval Letter" and "Employment Visa Notification Letter" issued by an authorized unit

F Issued to a person who has been invited to visit China for no longer than six months for business, seminars and fact-finding purposes; for scientific, technical or cultural exchanges; for short-term continuing or practical training; or for any other such activities An invitation extended by an authorized unit

X Issued to a person who enters China for study, further education or practical training for six months or longer A certificate issued by the receiving unit or the relevant department in charge

G Issued to a person who passes through China in transit A valid visa for the country (region) to which the applicant intends to travel next or, in the absence of such a visa, an onward ticket.