For international patients considering healthcare in China, understanding the visa process is one of the most critical steps. With China’s medical system increasingly attracting global attention — the country’s key foreign-facing hospitals received 1.28 million international patient visits in 2025, up 73.6% from three years ago — getting these fundamentals right can make all the difference.
The most common visa for international patients is the S2 visa (Short-term Private Affairs Visa) , designed for those requiring routine surgeries, short-term targeted therapies, or phased rehabilitation. It permits a single stay of up to 180 days. For longer or more complex treatment exceeding six months, the S1 visa (Long-term Private Affairs Visa) is required, which involves applying for a residence permit after arrival.
The cornerstone of any medical visa application is the Medical Invitation Letter from a recognized Chinese hospital — typically a public 3A institution such as Peking Union Medical College Hospital. This document must detail the patient‘s full name, passport number, diagnosis, treatment plan, expected duration, and bear the hospital’s official seal. Additional requirements include a passport valid for at least six months, recent photos, a completed visa application form, proof of funds (typically bank statements covering at least 120% of estimated treatment costs), and travel insurance. Processing usually takes 4 to 7 business days, with expedited options available.
For shorter visits — such as initial consultations, routine checkups, or wellness tourism — patients from 55 eligible countries may take advantage of China‘s 240-hour visa-free transit policy (as of June 2025). This allows a stay of up to 10 days across 24 designated provinces. It is worth noting that major surgeries or hospitalization are not permitted under this policy.