Full Timeline
The X1 process is longer and more complex than X2. Plan for 3–6 months from university application to residence permit.
Research and apply to university
3–6 months before intake
University reviews application
2–4 weeks
Receive admission letter
1–2 weeks after acceptance
University applies for JW form
4–8 weeks
Receive JW form
Courier: 3–7 days
Book visa appointment
Same day
Attend appointment
30 minutes
Collect X1 visa
4 working days
Fly to China
Before visa expiry
Physical examination
3–5 days
Submit residence permit application
1 day
Collect residence permit
5–10 days
Research and apply to university
3–6 months before intake
University reviews application
2–4 weeks
Receive admission letter
1–2 weeks after acceptance
University applies for JW form
4–8 weeks
Receive JW form
Courier: 3–7 days
Book visa appointment
Same day
Attend appointment
30 minutes
Collect X1 visa
4 working days
Fly to China
Before visa expiry
Physical examination
3–5 days
Submit residence permit application
1 day
Collect residence permit
5–10 days
Semester Intakes
| Intake | Apply by | JW form by | Visa appointment by |
|---|---|---|---|
| September (Fall) | January–March | May–June | July–August |
| February/March (Spring) | August–October | November–December | December–January |
Most degree programs only have a September intake. Language programs are more flexible and may accept students in September, February, or even June.
After Arrival: The First 30 Days
Police registration
Within 24 hours
Physical examination
Days 3–7
Submit residence permit
Days 7–14
Collect residence permit
Days 14–25
Police registration
Within 24 hours
Physical examination
Days 3–7
Submit residence permit
Days 7–14
Collect residence permit
Days 14–25
Do not cut it close
If your 30-day visa expires while your residence permit is processing, you are in legal limbo. Start the health check in your first week. If delays happen, go to the PSB before day 25 with your paperwork to request an extension.
Need a personalized timeline?
Tell us your program start date and nationality. We will build a week-by-week plan.
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