To apply for an appropriate visa will make a foreigner's life and work in China much easer. The Chinese visa authorities will issue a relevant visa according to the purpose of the entry. To apply for a Chinese visa, an applicant needs to provide a valid passport and, when necessary, relevant certificates.

The authorities of the Chinese government abroad for handling foreigner's application for entry or transit visa are Chinese diplomatic missions abroad, consular offices and other overseas agencies authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of China. The authorities of the Chinese government in Beijing for handling foreigners' application for entry, transit, residence and travel visas are Division of visa for Foreigners of the Department; MFA; the Foreign Affairs Office of the People's Government of Beijing Municipality; Division of Entry and Exit Administration of Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau.

(english.gov.cn October 20, 2006)