09/04/2026
Visiting family in China? The right visa may depend on who you’re visiting.
If your family member is a foreign national living in China, the S Visa may apply to your trip.
S1 is generally for longer-term visits, while S2 is generally for shorter-term visits. This is different from the Q Visa, which is typically used for visiting family members who are Chinese citizens or permanent residents.
That Q vs. S distinction is one of the most common sources of confusion for family travelers.
Chicago Passport & Visa helps you confirm the correct China family visit visa category before you apply, so you can avoid preventable delays.
Not sure if you need a Q Visa or S Visa? Let’s clarify it before you apply: https://www.chicagopassport-visa.com/visas/china