Best Dependent Visa Lawyers in Chengdu

About Dependent Visa Law in Chengdu, China

A dependent visa in China allows eligible family members of a foreign national who is legally present in China to enter and stay in China for the purpose of family reunion, accompanying the principal visa-holder, or joining a relative who lives or works in China. In Chengdu, like elsewhere in China, dependent visa categories most commonly used are S1 and S2 for family members of foreigners who are working, studying, receiving medical treatment, or living long-term in China. Other family-visit categories such as Q1 and Q2 apply to family members of Chinese citizens or foreign permanent residents.

Dependent visa rules are administered by the Exit-Entry Administration of the Chengdu Municipal Public Security Bureau and guided by national immigration rules issued by the National Immigration Administration and the Ministry of Public Security. Applications typically require proof of the relationship between the principal visa-holder and the dependent, valid travel documents, invitation or authorization documents, and in many cases certified translations and authentication of foreign documents. For long-term family stays, dependents may be required to convert an entry visa into a residence permit after arrival.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many dependent visa applications are straightforward and are handled successfully with employer support, university invitation letters, or by following local Exit-Entry Administration instructions. However, a lawyer can be essential in numerous situations where legal complexity, risk, or uncertainty exists.

You may need a lawyer if your case involves complicated or unclear proof of relationship - for example, a marriage or birth certificate issued abroad that requires authentication, translation, or supplementary evidence. Lawyers help with document legalization, notarization and consular procedures, and the preparation of sworn translations.

Other common reasons to seek legal help include visa refusals or appeals, overstays or immigration record problems, criminal records or background checks that may affect admissibility, disputes arising from divorce or custody that affect dependent rights, and issues when the principal visa status changes - for example when an employer-sponsored Z work visa ends or when a foreign national changes visa category. Lawyers can also advise in sensitive situations such as adoption recognition, inheritance or guardianship cases involving minor children, and when a family member has a medical condition requiring special clearance.

Local Laws Overview

China operates a centralized immigration framework with local implementation. Key rules that affect dependent visas in Chengdu include national visa categories and rules set by the National Immigration Administration and implementing regulations issued by the Ministry of Public Security, together with local practice guidelines from the Chengdu Exit-Entry Administration.

Important legal points:

Visa categories - The S1 visa is generally for long-term family members who plan to stay in China for more than 180 days. An S1 visa-holder must apply for a temporary residence permit at the local Exit-Entry Administration within 30 days of entry. The S2 visa is for short-term family visits under 180 days. For family of Chinese citizens or permanent residents, Q1 is for long-term visits and Q2 for short-term visits.

Proof of relationship - Applicants must provide valid and authenticated documents proving the family relationship, such as a marriage certificate for spouses and a birth certificate for children. Documents issued outside China commonly require notarization, legalisation or consular authentication and certified Chinese translations.

Residence permit conversion and registration - Long-term dependents must convert their entry visa into a residence permit and complete local police residence registration. Failure to convert or register can lead to fines or administrative removal.

Work rights - Dependent visas typically do not automatically grant work rights. Spouses on S-type visas normally need to obtain a work permit and appropriate work visa or a separate authorization before working. Local policies and employer practices in Chengdu can vary, and additional permits are usually required.

Health and background checks - For long-term residence permits, authorities may require health checks, medical certificates, and criminal record checks from the home country. Health check requirements depend on the length and purpose of stay.

Recognition of foreign documents - China does not participate in the Hague Apostille Convention. Foreign documents often require notarization and consular legalization by a Chinese embassy or consulate, or other authenticated procedures recognized by Chinese authorities. Local Exit-Entry Administration will advise on acceptable formats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What visa type should my family member apply for if I live and work in Chengdu?

If you hold a work visa or residence permit based on employment, family members typically apply for an S1 visa for stays longer than 180 days or an S2 visa for shorter visits. If you are a Chinese citizen or a foreign permanent resident, the Q1 or Q2 categories may apply. The specific choice depends on the length of intended stay and the principal visa-holder's status, so check with the Chengdu Exit-Entry Administration for the correct category.

What documents are usually required to apply for a dependent visa in Chengdu?

Commonly required documents include the dependent applicant's passport with at least six months validity, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-style photo, proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate), an invitation letter or authorization letter from the principal visa-holder or employer in China, copies of the principal visa-holder's passport and residence permit, and evidence of local address or accommodation. Foreign-issued documents often need notarization, Chinese translation and consular authentication or local legalization.

Do foreign marriage certificates or birth certificates need to be legalized or translated?

Yes. Documents issued abroad normally need to be notarized and legalized or authenticated according to Chinese requirements, and translated into Chinese by a certified translator. Practices can vary depending on the country of origin of the document and recent policy updates, so it is important to confirm the exact authentication steps with the Chengdu Exit-Entry Administration or the Chinese consulate in your home country before applying.

How long does it take to process a dependent visa application in Chengdu?

Processing time can vary. Standard visa applications are often processed in a few working days to two weeks, but legalization and document authentication steps add time before application submission. If a residence permit must be issued after entry for long-term stays, conversion usually must be done within 30 days of arrival, and the residence permit issuance can take additional time. Delays may occur due to incomplete documentation or additional checks.

Can a dependent on an S1 or S2 visa work in China?

Generally, S-type visas do not automatically grant work authorization. A dependent who wishes to work must obtain the proper work permit and typically convert to a work-based residence permit or acquire separate authorization in accordance with local regulations. Employers will usually handle work permit applications, and the local Exit-Entry Administration will advise on the required steps.

What should I do if my dependent visa application is refused?

If an application is refused, the refusal notice will usually state the reason. Common issues include incomplete documents, inadequate proof of relationship, or inconsistencies in the application. You can correct the deficiencies and reapply, or in more complex cases consult a lawyer to assess whether an administrative review or appeal is available under Chinese immigration law. Legal help is especially important if a refusal is linked to criminal records, previous overstays, or allegations of document fraud.

How do I extend or renew a dependent's stay in Chengdu?

Short-term S2 or Q2 visas can sometimes be extended for legitimate reasons by applying to the local Exit-Entry Administration before the current visa expires. For long-term stays, dependents on S1 or Q1 visas must apply to convert the entry visa into a residence permit within the prescribed timeframe and then apply for renewals of that residence permit before it expires. Requirements for renewals generally mirror initial application requirements and may require updated proof of relationship, continued eligibility of the principal visa-holder, and current medical or background checks in some cases.

Is same-sex marriage recognized for dependent visa purposes in China?

As of the current legal framework, China does not recognize same-sex marriage. This affects eligibility for family-based dependent visas that rely on a legally recognized marriage. Individuals in same-sex partnerships should seek legal advice about available alternatives and the practical approach in Chengdu, as local procedures and discretionary practices may differ and complex cases may require specialized legal assistance.

What happens if a dependent overstays a visa in Chengdu?

Overstaying may lead to fines, administrative detention, deportation and restrictions on future entry to China. The Exit-Entry Administration enforces immigration rules, and penalties depend on the length and circumstances of the overstay. If an overstay has occurred, consult an immigration lawyer promptly to understand possible remedies, voluntary departure options, or ways to mitigate penalties.

How much will a lawyer cost to help with a dependent visa in Chengdu?

Legal fees vary depending on the lawyer experience, the complexity of the case, and the services required. Simple document reviews or standard application assistance will cost less than services involving appeals, litigation, or complex legalization procedures. Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation or a fixed-fee package for standard visa work, while complex matters may be billed hourly. Ask for a clear fee estimate, a scope of services, and an engagement letter before hiring a lawyer.

Additional Resources

Useful resources and institutions to consult when dealing with dependent visas in Chengdu include the Exit-Entry Administration of the Chengdu Municipal Public Security Bureau, the Sichuan Provincial Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration, and the National Immigration Administration which issues national guidance on visa categories and procedures. Your country’s embassy or consulate in China can advise on document legalization and consular services. Local public notary offices and certified translation services provide document certification and translation.

For legal support, consider the Sichuan Provincial Lawyers Association or well-established immigration and family law firms in Chengdu with experience in foreigner-related cases. University international offices and employer human resources departments commonly help with invitation letters and procedural guidance for dependents of students and employees. Community organizations and expat groups in Chengdu may also offer practical, experience-based advice.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a dependent visa in Chengdu, start with these practical steps. First, gather your core documents - passports, proof of relationship, the principal visa-holder’s residence permit or employment documents, and any existing invitation letters. Second, check whether your foreign certificates need notarization and consular authentication and arrange certified Chinese translations where required.

Third, contact the Chengdu Exit-Entry Administration or your country’s consulate for the most current application requirements, forms and processing times. Fourth, if your case is straightforward and you only need help preparing documents, consider a licensed translation and notarization service or a reputable visa agent. If your situation involves refusals, overstays, criminal records, disputed family relationships, same-sex partnership issues, or appeals, schedule a consultation with an immigration lawyer experienced in Chinese visa and family law.

When choosing a lawyer, verify relevant qualifications, ask about specific experience with dependent visas in Chengdu, request references, confirm fee arrangements in writing, and ensure clear communication about timelines and likely outcomes. Keep copies of all submitted documents and correspondence, maintain a timeline of key dates such as visa expiry and residence permit deadlines, and secure appropriate health insurance for family members during their stay.

Taking these steps early reduces the risk of delays and refusals and helps ensure compliance with Chinese immigration rules while you live and work in Chengdu.