658 Zhongxing Lu
中兴路658号
Phone: 0574-8775-8210
Website: www.gongan.ningbo.gov.cn
Hours: 8:30am - 11:15am, 1:30pm - 5:15pm
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This is the office where visas are issued and renewed. An important place for local foreigners. You can change a tourist visa into a working visa, extend a business or tourist visa, or get a residence permit. The cost depends on your visa class and length of stay. It takes about a week to process your passport. For all visa classes, you will need:

• A photocopy of the front page of your passport. A copy machine is available at the visa office.
• A photocopy of your current visa and entry stamp.
• A passport photo. A photographer is available at the visa office.
• A completed application form. Forms are available at the visa office.
• A temporary residence registration. If you stay at a hotel, the hotel will provide this. Otherwise, you need to visit your local police station and register. All foreigners must have this residence certificate.
• Other documents may be required according to your visa class. Click the items below to see official requirements.

Class L - Tourist visa. Length of stay is 30 days. It can be extended once.

Class F - Business visa. For people employed by foreign companies. Length of stay can be 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, 1 year, or two years. You can get 0, 1, 2, or multiple entries. You will need an invitation letter from an authorized Chinese company, and a copy of their business license. View a sample invitation letter.

Class X - Student visa. You will need documentation from your school.

Class Z - Work visa. For people employed by Chinese companies. You will need a foreign experts certificate, health examination, an extra passport photo, and other documentation from your employer. Typically, you will give your passport to your employer, and they will give you the visa. It is illegal to work for a Chinese company without this visa! Don't let your school tell you otherwise!

There are other visa types not listed here. If you need help with your visa, contact Reindeer Station, Ningbo's expat assistant.