The Short Answer
For family visits, China uses Q visas when the relative you visit is a Chinese citizen (or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence) and S visas when the relative is a foreigner working or studying in China. The "1" types (Q1, S1) are for stays over 180 days; the "2" types (Q2, S2) are for visits of 180 days or less. Every type needs an invitation letter from your relative.
| Visa | Who you are visiting | Length of stay |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Family member who is a Chinese citizen or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence (family reunion or foster care) | Over 180 days |
| Q2 | Relative who is a Chinese citizen living in China, or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence | 180 days or less |
| S1 | Family member who is a foreigner working or studying in China | Over 180 days |
| S2 | Family member who is a foreigner working or studying in China | 180 days or less |
The requirements below are from the San Francisco Consulate's official list (updated September 2025). The Los Angeles and New York Consulates and the Washington DC Embassy publish similar lists; Mandy checks yours against your office's current list.
Q2 Visa Documents (Short Family Visit)
- Invitation letter from your relative in China
- Copy of the inviter's Chinese ID card, or, for a foreign inviter with permanent residence, their passport photo page and permanent residence permit
Q1 Visa Documents (Family Reunion, Over 180 Days)
- Invitation letter from the family member in China
- Copy of the inviter's Chinese ID card, or foreign passport photo page and permanent residence permit
- Proof of the family relationship (for example a marriage or birth certificate): a copy is uploaded online and the original is shown at submission
S2 Visa Documents (Short Visit to a Foreign Family Member)
- Invitation letter from the family member in China
- Copy of the inviter's passport photo page and Chinese residence permit or visa
- Copy of a document proving the relationship
S1 Visa Documents (Over 180 Days)
- Invitation letter from the family member in China
- Copy of the inviter's passport photo page and Chinese residence permit
- Original relationship certificate (for example a marriage or birth certificate)
What the Invitation Letter Must Include
- The inviter's name, gender, date of birth, ID or passport number, address in China, phone number and email
- Your name, gender, date of birth, nationality, passport number and relationship to the inviter
- Planned travel dates and length of stay
- The inviter's signature and date
The San Francisco Consulate's list counts spouses, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren and parents-in-law, among others, as family members.
Q, S or a Tourist Visa?
If your relative is inviting you and you have their letter and ID copies, the Q or S visa is the family-visit category. If you are unsure which type fits your trip, tell Mandy your situation before you submit COVA. The visa type you choose on COVA is the one you apply for.
Applying Through ChinaVisaMail
ChinaVisaMail handles Q1, Q2, S1 and S2 applications in all 39 states, Washington DC and Puerto Rico we serve, at the same prices as other visa types: $449 Standard or $494 Express per person, total (pricing). Mandy reviews your invitation letter and documents before your passport goes to the visa office.
Let Us Handle the Visa Office for You
Apply online. Mandy replies within 1–2 hours with your mailing instructions, payment options and a document checklist.
Apply Now →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Q2 and an S2 visa?
Both are for family visits of 180 days or less. Q2 is for visiting a relative who is a Chinese citizen or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence. S2 is for visiting a family member who is a foreigner working or studying in China.
Do I need an invitation letter for a China family visit visa?
Yes. Q1, Q2, S1 and S2 applications all need an invitation letter from your relative in China, with copies of the inviter's ID, passport or residence documents.
Do I need proof of relationship for a Q2 visa?
The San Francisco Consulate's current list does not include relationship proof for Q2. It is required for Q1, S1 and S2. Requirements can change, so check your office's current list.