Campus Life · Visa Services
Visa & Residence Permit Guide
Everything international students need to know about entry visas, police registration, and residence permits at NPU.
Apply NowEntry Visas
Visa Types for International Students
NPU international students typically enter China on an X-category student visa. The type depends on the length of your program.
X1 Visa — Long-Term Study (180+ days)
For students enrolled in programs longer than 180 days (degree students, full-year Chinese language students). Must be converted to a Residence Permit within 30 days of arrival.
X2 Visa — Short-Term Study (≤180 days)
For exchange students, summer/winter school participants, and short-term visiting students. No conversion required; X2 serves as your stay permit.
How to Obtain Your Visa
Once admitted, NPU will issue a JW202 scholarship form and the Admission Notice. Take these to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for your X1/X2 visa.
Passport Validity Requirement
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Ensure your passport does not expire during the academic year; renew before applying.
Required Within 24 Hours
Police Registration on Arrival
All foreign nationals in China must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. For students staying in NPU dormitories, the university handles this on your behalf.
- Arrive at NPU DormitoryCheck in to your assigned dormitory on Youyi Campus. The dormitory management office will collect your passport details and file your registration with the local police station on your behalf.
- Off-Campus Students — Register IndependentlyIf you live off campus, visit the nearest local police station (派出所) within 24 hours with your passport and rental agreement. NPU International Students Office can advise on the nearest station.
- Receive Temporary Residence RegistrationKeep the Temporary Residence Registration Form (临时住宿登记表). X1 visa holders will need it when converting to a Residence Permit.
X1 Holders Only · Within 30 Days
Converting Your Visa to a Residence Permit
X1 visa holders must convert to a Residence Permit for Study within 30 days of arrival at the Entry-Exit Administration Bureau of Xi'an Public Security Bureau.
- Valid passport with X1 entry visa
- Admission Notice (录取通知书)
- JW202 Scholarship Form (奖学金来华留学资格证书)
- Physical examination report (体格检查表) — from a designated hospital
- 2 × passport-size photos (white background)
- Temporary Residence Registration Form from police
- Completed residence permit application form
- Application fee (approx. ¥400–800 depending on duration)
The International Students Office at NPU organises group residence permit application trips at the start of each semester. Watch the WeChat group (studyatnpu) for the scheduled date and document checklist specific to your situation.
Need Help?
Visa Support Contacts
The International Students Office handles all visa, residence permit, and police registration support for NPU international students.
Room 718, Yizi Building, 127 Youyi Xilu, Beilin, Xi'an 710072
Mon–Fri 08:30–17:30 (Beijing Time)