Reunite with Family in China—Legally and Long-Term
The Q1 Visa is China’s long-term family reunification visa, designed for foreign nationals joining immediate family members who are Chinese citizens or permanent residents. Whether you’re a spouse, child, or parent, the Q1 Visa enables you to live in China legally—and, in most cases, apply for a residence permit and eventual permanent residency.
At Borderless Lawyers, we provide complete legal support for family-based immigration to China, guiding you through every step—from document legalization to post-arrival registration.
👨👩👧👦 What Is the Q1 Visa?
The Q1 Visa is a long-term family visa for foreign nationals joining:
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Chinese citizens residing in China
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Foreigners who have permanent residence (PRC Green Card)
🔁 The Q1 is a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days upon arrival, after which you must apply for a residence permit (typically valid for 1–5 years depending on your relationship and local authority discretion).
✅ Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for a Q1 Visa if you are:
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A spouse of a Chinese citizen or PRC permanent resident
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A child under 18 or dependent joining a parent in China
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A parent or parent-in-law of a Chinese citizen (in select cases for elderly dependents)
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A foreign adoptee or close relative seeking family reunification
📝 For visits of less than 180 days, see the Q2 Visa (short-term family visit).
📄 Required Documents
From the Applicant:
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Passport (valid 6+ months)
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Completed Visa Application Form (V.2013)
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Passport-sized photo (white background)
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Proof of kinship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption certificate)
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Medical examination report (for residence permit)
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Invitation letter from your Chinese family member
From the Inviting Relative in China:
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Chinese national ID or PRC Permanent Residence Card
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Local hukou (household registration, if applicable)
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Proof of residence (housing lease or ownership)
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Relationship affidavit (if required by consulate)
📑 Foreign documents must be notarized, translated into Chinese, and legalized by a Chinese embassy or consulate.
🛠 How We Help
1️⃣ Eligibility Review & Visa Selection
We assess your family situation and determine whether a Q1 (long-term) or Q2 (short-term) visa is most appropriate.
2️⃣ Document Preparation & Legalization
We manage notarizations, translations, and consulate legalization for your marriage or birth certificates and relationship proof.
3️⃣ Visa Application Support
We help you prepare and submit your Q1 visa application at the Chinese Visa Application Center (CVASC) or appropriate embassy.
4️⃣ Post-Arrival Registration
We assist with police registration, residence permit application, and guidance on renewal or PR eligibility.
🔁 Q1 vs. Q2 Family Visa Comparison
| Feature | Q1 Visa (Long-Term) | Q2 Visa (Short-Term) |
|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration | Over 180 days | Up to 180 days |
| Entry Type | Single-entry (convertible) | Multiple-entry possible |
| Residence Permit | ✅ Required after entry | ❌ Not required |
| Employment Allowed? | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Best For | Spouses, dependents, adoptees | Family visits and short reunions |
🔐 Benefits of the Q1 Visa
✅ Stay with your Chinese spouse or children long-term
✅ Apply for a renewable residence permit
✅ Opportunity to seek permanent residence in China
✅ Access to education for children and healthcare benefits (via sponsor)
✅ Legal family-based relocation under China’s immigration system
⚠️ Legal Considerations
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Work is not permitted on a Q1 visa—separate authorization is required
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Entry is single-use only; you must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival
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Local Entry-Exit Bureaus have discretion on residence permit duration and renewal
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Q1 does not automatically lead to PR, but may support future eligibility
📞 Reunite With Your Family—The Legal Way
At Borderless Lawyers, we specialize in cross-border family immigration. From confirming your eligibility to handling consular procedures and helping you settle legally in China, we support every step of your family’s transition.
Let us handle the paperwork—so you can focus on what matters most: being together.