Certificates Service Center of Ningbo Municipal Public Security Bureau

658 Zhongxing Lu 中兴路658号 Tel: 0574-8775-8210 Website: www.gongan.ningbo.gov.cn Hours: 8:30am - 11:15am, 1:30pm - 5:15pm Print Taxi Directions]

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, properly called a residence permit. The Z visa can only be issued outside of China, and after entry it must be converted into a residence permit within 30 days. 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!