Introduction
Planning a medical trip to China requires more than just choosing the right hospital and treatment. One of the most important steps is obtaining the correct visa. China offers specific visa categories for medical travelers, and understanding the requirements, application process, and timeline is essential for a smooth journey.
This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a medical visa for China — from visa types and application procedures to required documents, processing times, and expert tips.
Understanding China’s Medical Visa Categories
China’s visa system includes two main categories for medical travelers:
S1 Visa (Long-Term Medical Visa)
- For medical treatment exceeding 180 days
- Requires a hospital invitation letter
- Allows multiple entries
- Valid for up to 1 year (renewable)
- Suitable for long-term cancer treatment, rehabilitation, or complex procedures
S2 Visa (Short-Term Medical Visa)
- For medical treatment under 180 days
- Requires a hospital invitation letter
- Usually single or double entry
- Valid for 30-90 days initially
- Suitable for most medical tourists (dental, surgery, IVF, etc.)
Tourist Visa (L Visa) for Medical Purposes
- Can be used for short medical visits (check-ups, minor procedures)
- No medical invitation letter required
- Maximum stay typically 30-60 days
- Best for routine check-ups and consultations
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Hospital and Get an Invitation Letter
Before applying for a medical visa, you need a formal invitation letter from a Chinese hospital. Most JCI-accredited hospitals in China have dedicated international patient departments that can provide this.
What the invitation letter should include:
- Patient’s full name and passport number
- Diagnosis and recommended treatment
- Treatment duration and estimated dates
- Hospital name, address, and official seal
- Contact information for the international department
Hospitals that provide invitation letters:
- Peking University Third Hospital
- Beijing United Family Hospital
- Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital
- Shanghai United Family Hospital
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center
- MedChinaGo partner hospitals
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Standard documents for S1/S2 visa:
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months with 2+ blank pages |
| Visa application form | Online form from ceac.china.com |
| Passport photo | 48mm x 33mm, white background, recent |
| Hospital invitation letter | Original or scanned from accredited hospital |
| Proof of medical treatment | Doctor’s referral or diagnosis documentation |
| Flight itinerary | Round-trip booking or itinerary |
| Hotel reservation | Confirmed accommodation for treatment period |
| Travel insurance | Recommended (medical coverage) |
| Financial proof | Bank statements showing ability to pay for treatment |
Additional documents may include:
- Previous medical records and test results
- Hospital correspondence or treatment plan
- Letter from your home-country doctor
- Proof of employment or ties to home country
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Where to apply:
- Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country
- Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) — authorized service centers in most countries
How to apply:
- Complete the online visa application form
- Print and sign the form
- Schedule an appointment at the embassy/CVASC
- Submit documents in person or through a visa agent
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait for processing
Step 4: Wait for Processing
| Visa Type | Processing Time | Express Service |
|---|---|---|
| S1 visa | 5-10 business days | 2-4 business days (extra fee) |
| S2 visa | 4-7 business days | 2-3 business days (extra fee) |
| L visa | 4-6 business days | 2-3 business days (extra fee) |
Tips to avoid delays:
- Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your planned travel
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
- Use a reputable visa service for complex cases
- Double-check your invitation letter details match your passport
Step 5: Enter China and Register
Upon arrival in China:
- Present your visa and invitation letter at immigration
- Receive your entry stamp (check the duration of stay)
- Within 24 hours of arrival, register your address with local police (if staying outside a hotel)
- Visit the hospital for your scheduled appointment
Visa Fee Schedule (2026)
| Country | S1 Visa | S2 Visa | L Visa | Express Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $140 | $140 | $140 | +$25-$40 |
| United Kingdom | £120 | £120 | £120 | +£20-£35 |
| Canada | CAD $130 | CAD $130 | CAD $130 | +CAD $30-$45 |
| Australia | AUD $145 | AUD $145 | AUD $145 | +AUD $30-$40 |
| Most EU countries | €80 | €80 | €80 | +€20-€35 |
Fees are subject to change. Check your local Chinese embassy for current rates.
MedChinaGo Visa Support Services
As part of our medical tourism services, MedChinaGo provides:
- Hospital coordination: We work with partner hospitals to issue your invitation letter promptly
- Document verification: We review your application documents before submission
- Visa guidance: Step-by-step instructions based on your nationality and treatment type
- Visa agent referral: We can recommend trusted visa agents in your country
- Travel planning: Coordinate your visa timeline with your treatment schedule
Tips for a Successful Medical Visa Application
Start Early
Begin your visa application process at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date. This gives you ample time for:
- Researching hospitals and obtaining invitation letters (1-2 weeks)
- Gathering documents (1 week)
- Submitting and processing (1-2 weeks)
- Addressing any issues or delays (1 week)
Ensure Document Accuracy
The most common reasons for visa delays are:
- Passport name not matching the invitation letter
- Incomplete application forms
- Missing supporting documents
- Incorrect visa category selection
Double-check every document before submission.
Work with Your Hospital
Your chosen hospital’s international patient department is your best resource. They understand the visa process and can:
- Provide a properly formatted invitation letter
- Confirm treatment details for immigration
- Offer guidance on appropriate visa type
- Sometimes offer visa assistance through their concierge services
Consider a Reputable Visa Agent
For complex cases or if you need expedited processing, a licensed visa agent can:
- Review your documents for completeness
- Submit on your behalf (in some jurisdictions)
- Track the application status
- Provide guidance on interview preparation (if required)
What to Do After Your Visa Is Approved
Before You Travel
- Copy your documents: Make multiple copies of your passport, visa, invitation letter, and insurance
- Share with your hospital: Send your travel details to your international patient coordinator
- Pack accordingly: Bring all original medical documents and medications
- Confirm airport pickup: Most international hospitals offer complimentary airport transfer
- Arrange local currency: Have some Chinese Yuan (RMB) for immediate expenses
At the Airport in China
- Proceed to the “Foreigners” immigration counter
- Present your passport with visa and invitation letter
- You may be asked about your treatment plan — refer to your invitation letter
- Receive your entry stamp and check the duration of stay
During Your Stay
- Keep your passport and visa in a safe place
- Register with local police within 24 hours (if not staying in a hotel)
- Attend all scheduled medical appointments
- If you need to extend your stay, visit the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau before your visa expires
Common Visa Questions
Can I extend my medical visa while in China?
Yes, S1 and S2 visas can be extended at the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau. Apply at least 7 days before your visa expires. You’ll need a letter from your hospital confirming continued treatment.
Do I need a visa for a short medical consultation?
If you’re from a visa-exempt country (e.g., Singapore, Japan, Brunei), you can enter for up to 15-30 days without a visa for consultations. Always check your country’s visa exemption status.
Can my family accompany me on a medical visa?
Yes. Family members (spouse, children, parents) can apply for S2 visas as companions. They will need a statement from the hospital confirming their role as caregivers.
What if my visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections are uncommon with proper documentation from accredited hospitals. If rejected, you can reapply after addressing the reason for rejection. MedChinaGo can assist with reapplication.
Can I use a tourist visa for surgery?
Yes, for minor procedures and short stays. However, for complex surgeries or extended treatment, an S1 or S2 medical visa is recommended to avoid complications at immigration.
As part of our medical tourism services, MedChinaGo provides:
- Hospital coordination: We work with partner hospitals to issue your invitation letter promptly
- Document verification: We review your application documents before submission
- Visa guidance: Step-by-step instructions based on your nationality and treatment type
- Visa agent referral: We can recommend trusted visa agents in your country
- Travel planning: Coordinate your visa timeline with your treatment schedule
Common Visa Questions
Can I extend my medical visa while in China?
Yes, S1 and S2 visas can be extended at the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau. Apply at least 7 days before your visa expires. You’ll need a letter from your hospital confirming continued treatment.
Do I need a visa for a short medical consultation?
If you’re from a visa-exempt country (e.g., Singapore, Japan, Brunei), you can enter for up to 15-30 days without a visa for consultations. Always check your country’s visa exemption status.
Can my family accompany me on a medical visa?
Yes. Family members (spouse, children, parents) can apply for S2 visas as companions. They will need a statement from the hospital confirming their role as caregivers.
What if my visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections are uncommon with proper documentation from accredited hospitals. If rejected, you can reapply after addressing the reason for rejection. MedChinaGo can assist with reapplication.
Can I use a tourist visa for surgery?
Yes, for minor procedures and short stays. However, for complex surgeries or extended treatment, an S1 or S2 medical visa is recommended to avoid complications at immigration.