International scholars visiting or working in China must hold an ordinary passport with either Visa F, Visa Z, or Visa R. Chinese visa authorities abroad include Chinese embassies, consulates, visa offices, and the consular departments of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.

Visa F: (also known as the Visit Visa or Business Visa) is issued by the Chinese government for individuals visiting China for non-commercial purposes, such as short-term business activities, cultural exchanges, or academic research. F visas generally require an invitation letter from the inviting institute or inviter at Tsinghua SIGS and other relevant documents. Please refer to the specific requirements on the website of the Chinese Embassy in your country or region. While on an F Visa, individuals are not permitted to engage in work or employment in China. If you intend to work, you would need to apply for a Z Visa (Work Visa).

Visa Z: (Work Visa) is a type of visa issued by the Chinese government for foreign nationals who intend to work in China. This visa is required for individuals who have secured employment with a Chinese employer and plan to engage in full-time paid work during their stay. International scholars employed by Tsinghua SIGS should follow the procedures to obtain a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit from the Shenzhen Foreign Expert Affairs Bureau. After receiving the e-copy of the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit, the applicant can apply for the Z Visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country or a country of residence. Upon arriving in China, Z Visa holders must apply for a Residence Permit for Work within 30 days of arrival. This permit allows the holder to stay in China for the duration of their work contract.

Visa R: (Talent Visa) is a special type of Chinese visa designed for high-level foreign talents and urgently needed professionals, whose expertise is essential for China’s economic and social development. This visa is intended for individuals who meet the criteria of Category A talents according to the Foreigners’ Work Classification Standards. The R Visa is valid for 5 to 10 years, allowing multiple entries and allows the holder to stay in China for up to 180 days per entry. After entering China with an R Visa, individuals planning to work in China long-term should apply for the Foreign Work Permit and Residence Permit for work. The R Visa offers a convenient pathway for high-level foreign talent, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional activities in China.