Foreigners need to extend their stay in China in different ways according to the type of visa they hold. Generally, they should apply to the exit and entry administration of the public security organ of the local people’s government at or above the county level 7 days before the expiration of the visa stay. There are the following situations:
1. Holding a C visa: A proof letter issued by the transportation company should be submitted, and the stay period can be extended for no more than 30 days.
2. Holding an F visa: A letter of proof issued by the inviting or receiving unit should be submitted. Units that have not been registered should also submit a registration certificate, which can extend the stay period by no more than 180 days.
3. Holding a G-visa: A letter of proof from the receiving unit and a confirmed date and seat ticket for the destination country should be submitted, and the stay period can be extended for no more than 30 days.
4. Holding a J2 visa: A proof letter should be submitted, and the stay period can be extended for no more than 30 days.
5. Holding an L visa: A travel plan and itinerary should be submitted, and for group travel, a travel agency certification letter should also be submitted, which can extend the stay period by no more than 30 days.
6. Holding an M-shaped visa: A proof letter issued by the local inviting or receiving unit or individual should be submitted. The unit that has not filed a record shall also submit the registration certificate. If the partner is an individual, the letter issued shall be signed and submitted with the certificate of local permanent registered residence registration or the certificate of actual residence. The duration of stay may be extended for no more than 180 days.
7. Holding a Q2 visa: A letter, identity certificate, and proof of family relationship issued by the visited person should be submitted, and the stay period can be extended for no more than 180 days.
8. Holding an R visa: Invitation and reception unit certification letters should be submitted, and unregistered units should also submit registration certificates, which can extend the stay period by no more than 180 days.
9. Holding Visa S2: The family visitor shall submit the letter issued by the visited person, the alien’s residence certificate and the proof of family relationship. Other personnel shall submit relevant certificates for handling personal affairs or humanitarian reasons. For visiting relatives, the stay period may be extended for no more than 180 days, and for other personnel, the stay period may be extended for no more than 90 days.
10. Holding a T-visa: Residence permits and relevant supporting documents should be submitted, and a stay permit with a stay period not exceeding 30 days can be issued.
In addition, aliens residing in China who apply for an extension of their residence period shall submit an application to the exit and entry administration of the public security organ of the local people’s government at or above the county level 30 days before the expiry of their residence certificates.
