How to calculate visa days in China?

Calculating Your Visa Duration for China

When applying for a Chinese visa, it’s crucial to understand how the duration of your stay is calculated. The “Duration of Each Stay” field on your visa specifies the maximum number of days you are permitted to remain in China.

Understanding the Calculation

The duration of your stay begins the day after your arrival and ends at midnight (Beijing time) on the final allowed day. This differs from the common practice in many other countries where the visa duration starts from the day of arrival and ends at the same time of day.

Example:

• If your visa specifies a “Duration of Each Stay” of 30 days and you arrive in China on January 1st, your visa validity period will be from January 2nd to January 31st at midnight (Beijing time).

Important Note:

• The duration of your stay is independent of the date of issue or the date of entry.
• Overstaying your visa is a serious offense that can lead to fines, deportation, and future travel restrictions.
• Always check your visa carefully to confirm the exact duration of your stay.

Additional Considerations:

• Some types of visas, such as business and student visas, may have multiple entries, which allow you to enter and exit China multiple times during the validity period. However, the duration of each stay remains the same.
• If you plan to stay in China for a longer period than permitted by your visa, you must apply for a visa extension well before your visa expires.
• You can check the remaining days of your visa validity by visiting the Chinese Immigration Administration website and entering your passport number.

By understanding how your visa duration is calculated, you can ensure a smooth and compliant stay in China. Remember to always refer to your actual visa for the most accurate information.