The 22nd International Conference on the Physics of Highly Charged Ions (HCI2026)

Visa information

Visa Information for HCI2026 Attendees (China)

 

To ensure a smooth entry into China for HCI2026, please note the following updated visa policies and application guidelines, based on China’s latest immigration regulations (as of 2026):

1. Visa-Exemption Eligibility (Priority Check)

China currently offers 30-day visa exemption for citizens of 48 countries traveling for academic exchange, tourism, business, or family visits (including conference participation like HCI2026). This policy covers most major economies, such as:

 

• European Union: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, etc.
• Asia: Japan, the Republic of Korea, Brunei, etc.
• Others: Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Brazil, Argentina, etc.Key Notes on Visa Exemption:

 

• Validity Period:
  • Brunei: No expiration date for visa exemption.
  • Russia: Valid until September 14, 2026.
  • All other 46 countries: Valid until December 31, 2026.
   
• Entry Requirements: Even for visa-exempt entry, please carry supporting documents to verify your purpose of travel, including:
  • HCI2026 invitation letter (sent post-registration).
  • Confirmed hotel reservations and return flight tickets.
  • Proof of conference registration (if available).
   
• Exclusion: The visa exemption does not apply if your stay in China exceeds 30 days, or if you plan to engage in work, long-term study, or other non-conference activities.

2. Visa Application for Non-Exempt Attendees

 

If you are not eligible for visa exemption (e.g., citizenship not in the 48 countries, or stay >30 days), please apply for the appropriate visa based on your status:

a. Recommended Visa Type for Conference Attendees

• F 字签证 (F Visa): Designed for foreign nationals entering China for academic exchange, visits, or conference participation (e.g., HCI2026).
  • Application materials (basic requirements):
    1. Valid passport (valid for ≥6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages).
    2. Completed Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China + 1 recent 2-inch color photo (light background, front-facing, no hat).
    3. HCI2026 official invitation letter (provided post-registration).
    4. Proof of legal stay/residence (if applying outside your home country, e.g., a work permit or student visa in the country of application).

b. Special Visa for Young Tech Talents

 

• K 字签证 (K Visa): Newly added in October 2025 for foreign young sci-tech talents. If you qualify (per China’s competent authority standards for young tech professionals), this visa offers streamlined application for academic/conference visits.
  • For details on eligibility and required documents, consult the Chinese consulate/embassy in your country.

3. Invitation Letter & Document Support

 

• Invitation Letter Delivery: After completing HCI2026 registration, an official invitation letter (with conference details and your status) will be sent to your registered email. This letter is a key document for visa applications or visa-exempt entry verification.
• Additional Documents: If you need supplementary materials (e.g., a formal conference registration certificate), please send a request to: hci2026@impcas.ac.cn. We will respond within 3 working days.

4. Application Timeline & Tips

 

• Recommended Preparation Time: Visa processing (including interview waiting periods at consulates) may vary by country/region. To avoid delays, we strongly advise:
  • Initiating visa applications at least 3 months before the conference.
  • Contacting the Chinese consulate/embassy in your home country in advance to confirm:
    • Whether an interview is required (and wait times for appointments).
    • Any country-specific requirements (e.g., local notarization for documents).
     
   
• Online Status Check: China’s visa application is fully processed online. Track your application progress via the China Visa Online System: consular.mfa.gov.cn/VISA/.

 

5. Transit Visa Exemption (If Applicable)

 

If you need to transit through China to reach the HCI2026 venue, you may qualify for the 240-hour (10-day) transit visa exemption (applicable at 55 major airports/ports). For details, visit the National Immigration Administration of China: www.nia.gov.cn.

6. Further Inquiries

 

• For the latest national visa policies: Visit China’s official government website: english.www.gov.cn.
• For consulate-specific guidance: Contact the nearest Chinese Embassy/Consulate-General in your country.

 

We wish you a successful visa application and look forward to welcoming you to HCI2026!