Students Beware: New Visa Rules in China

Recently the Chinese government has been busy changing visa rules for foreigners in China. This was a long time coming since the last change to China’s immigration rules was in 1986, and since then the number of foreigners entering China has increased dramatically. There are two things to be aware of: the Exit-Entry Administration Law which came into effect on July 1st, and a new entry-exit regulation (promulgated yesterday) which will come into effect on September 1st. I will concentrate on what changes are relevant to international students in China.

Student Visas

Effective from: September 1st 2013

There will now be two types of student visas – the X1 Visa (for long-term students) and the X2 Visa (for short-term students). Apart from the change in visa name there should be no change in how to apply for a residence permit – with exception being you may have to give fingerprints (this was supposedly introduced from July 1st, however I applied for a residence permit after that time and no fingerprints were taken).

Visitors

Effective from: September 1st 2013

Some of you may have family or friends visiting you in China, fortunately the tourist visa (L-visa) remains largely unchanged. The only thing to bear in mind is now the tourist China Visa can only be extended on once for 30 days, as opposed to twice.

Students working in China

Effective from: July 1st 2013

Whereas previously it was illegal for international students to work in China (albeit widespread), it is now legal to work providing you get permission. The new regulations stipulate that international students who wish to undertake part-time jobs should first seek permission from their school, and they will then give you the correct documentation to hand in at the exit-entry bureau so such information can be recorded in your residence permit.

 

Crackdown on foreigners: Illegal entry, illegal residence, illegally working

I know that the majority of students will continue to work regardless, but whereas previously there was little chance of getting caught, now with the introduction of the new rules there are more surprise checks in the workplace and some employers do not take on those in China on an X-visa. Also, Chinese citizens are encouraged to report any foreigner they believe is illegal working or living in China, as the above picture demonstrates. I suggest getting the permission needed; it’s not worth the risk.

Fines

Effective from: July 1st 2013

International students in China are most likely to get fined for illegally working, not applying for the residence permit in time, or overstaying their residence permit. As well as fines, all offences carry the risk of deportation.

Illegally working: You could be fined anywhere from 5,000 to 20-000RMB. The employer would also be fined a hefty sum.

Failing to apply for a residence permit in time: Same as below – fined by the day.

Overstay: You can be fined up to 500RMB a day, with an overall limit of 10,000RMB. Make sure you book your flight home before your visa expires. You might think a few days won’t.

[Source: http://studyinchina.universiablogs.net/2013/07/23/students-beware-new-visa-rules-in-china/]