As an increasing number of overseas patients travel to China for cancer treatment, organ transplantation, precision medicine, rare disease management, and advanced specialty care, medical visas have become an essential part of cross-border healthcare access.

As a professional platform connecting international patients with high-quality medical resources in China, DengYueMed is committed to assisting overseas patients in accessing leading Chinese hospitals, international medical departments, and cross-border healthcare services, while also providing consultation and coordination support for medical visa applications.

This guide will help international patients understand the scope, required documents, application procedures, and regulatory considerations related to China’s S1 and S2 medical visas.

What Types of Visas Are Available for International Patients Seeking Medical Treatment in China?

Depending on the treatment duration, complexity of the medical condition, and whether long-term treatment is required, international patients generally use the following visa categories:

1. L Visa (Tourist Visa) or Visa-Free Policies

Suitable for:

● Short-term health check-ups

● Medical aesthetics procedures

● Minor medical treatments

● Outpatient or minimally invasive procedures lasting less than 30 days

Certain countries may also qualify for China’s visa-free entry policies or transit visa exemptions.

2. S1 / S2 Medical Visas

Suitable for:

● Moderate to severe disease treatment

● Long-term rehabilitation

● Cancer treatment

● Organ transplantation

● Long-term hospitalization

● Medical situations requiring accompanying family members

This article focuses primarily on S1 and S2 medical visa categories.

China Medical Visa: Differences Between S1 and S2

Procedures for Obtaining Medical Documentation from Chinese Hospitals

When applying for a medical visa, international patients are generally required to obtain official documents issued by accredited Chinese hospitals, including:

● Medical acceptance letter

● Diagnostic opinion

● Treatment plan

● Hospital invitation letter

These documents are usually issued by the international medical departments of Chinese Class A tertiary hospitals.

As international patients increasingly seek treatment in China, choosing the right hospital is also an important part of medical planning. You may also read our guide: Top 10 Hospitals in China for International Patients.

Process for Obtaining Medical Documentation

1. Remote Medical Record Evaluation

Patients submit previous medical records, examination reports, imaging materials, and pathology reports.

2. Review by the Hospital International Department

The international medical department of the Chinese hospital evaluates whether the patient is suitable for treatment in China.

3. Online Remote Consultation

Some hospitals may arrange:

● Video consultations

● MDT (Multidisciplinary Team) consultations

● International specialist evaluations

4. Issuance of Official Medical Documents

After approval, the hospital may issue:

● Medical invitation letter

● Treatment plan

● Medical acceptance letter

● Visa support documents

5. Visa Application Submission

Patients may use the above documents to apply for a medical visa through Chinese embassies or consulates abroad.

China Medical Visa Application Process

Step 1: Confirm the Appropriate Visa Category

Determine the visa type based on the expected treatment duration:

● ≤180 days: S2 Visa

● ＞180 days: S1 Visa

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Required documents generally include:

1. Basic Documents

● Valid passport

● Visa application form

● Passport-sized photo with white background

2. Medical-Related Documents

● Diagnosis certificate from the patient’s local hospital

● Invitation letter from a Chinese hospital

● Medical acceptance letter

● Treatment plan

3. Financial Proof

Applicants are advised to demonstrate sufficient funds covering:

● Medical expenses

● Accommodation expenses

● Expenses for accompanying family members

It is generally recommended to provide proof of funds equivalent to at least 120% of the estimated treatment costs.

4. Additional Supporting Documents

Hotel reservation

Flight itinerary

Insurance documents

Proof of family relationship

Step 3: Submit the Application

Applicants may submit materials through:

● Chinese embassies abroad

● Chinese consulates

● Chinese visa application service centers

Some countries also support:

● Online appointment systems

● Mail-in applications

● Visa center agency services

Step 4: Await Approval

After approval:

● Verify visa information

● Confirm the permitted duration of stay

● Check the number of entries allowed

International patients are advised to keep copies of all submitted documents and electronic versions of medical records.

Medical Visa Extension Information

If additional treatment time is required, applicants should:

● Apply for an extension at least 7 days in advance

● Visit the local Exit-Entry Administration Office of the Public Security Bureau

Required documents may include:

● Hospital-issued treatment extension certificate

● Updated treatment plan

● Financial proof

Final approval is subject to review by local immigration authorities.

Recommendations for International Patients

To improve the likelihood of visa approval, applicants are advised to:

1.  Plan treatment schedules in advance and avoid last-minute applications.

2.  Ensure consistency across all documents, including names, passport numbers, and medical records.

3.  Use official documentation issued by accredited Chinese tertiary hospitals and their international medical departments.

4.  Prepare certified translations for all non-Chinese documents, including notarized versions if required.

5.  Stay informed about policy updates, as additional requirements may vary by country or region.

DengYueMed Cross-Border Medical Support Services

DengYueMed is dedicated to connecting international patients with high-quality medical resources in China and providing cross-border medical coordination and consultation services, including:

● Chinese hospital resource coordination

● Communication with international medical departments

● Medical invitation letter assistance

● Medical visa consultation

● Remote consultation coordination

● Medical travel arrangement support

● Medical interpretation services

● Patient accompaniment and cross-border support

Through systematic cross-border healthcare coordination, DengYueMed helps international patients access China’s healthcare system more efficiently and receive appropriate medical resources and support.