Usually you cannot simply convert one visa into another inside China. For example, a business (M) visa is generally not converted into a work (Z) visa inside China.
Whether you can apply for a work permit and residence permit without leaving depends on local practice. Some cities decide mainly by your work permit category; others also look at further conditions, such as your nationality. The same person may be able to apply inside China in one city but need to leave in another.
What can usually be done inside China
- Extend or reissue some visas. Business visas can be extended, renewed or reissued at local exit-entry offices under the 2024 facilitation measures, within their rules.
- Move from a visa to a residence permit where local rules allow, such as applying for a work permit and work-type residence permit after entering on a business visa, depending on the city.
- Change a residence permit’s basis, for example when changing employers, by cancelling and applying again with the new employer.
- Transfer across regions without reapplying in some cases, for qualifying managers and professionals moving within the same organisation.
Why the answer differs between cities
Some cities allow in-country applications for certain work permit categories and require others to leave and apply from abroad. Read how the categories work.
Other cities can accept in-country applications more widely, but only when further conditions are met, such as your nationality or current visa.
Local practice is adjusted from time to time. What worked for someone last year may not work for you now.
Tell us your city, nationality, current visa and expected category, and we will tell you whether an in-country application is realistic before you plan around it. Estimate your category first.
When you may need to leave
- Your city does not offer an in-country route for your situation
- You are on a tourist or transit status that cannot be changed locally
- Your current visa or stay is close to expiring before a new application can be accepted
Applying again from abroad, usually for a Z visa with a work permit notice, is the standard route. See the Z visa steps.
Never let your current stay expire while waiting for a new status. Check the timing before you apply.
Related questions
Can I change a tourist visa to a work visa in China?
Often not, but it depends on local practice. Some cities decide by work permit category, others by further conditions such as nationality. Where an in-country route is not available, you apply for a Z visa from abroad. Check before you plan.
Can I change from a student residence permit to a work permit?
Sometimes, after graduation. Some cities have routes for graduates of Chinese universities. Conditions vary, so check before your study permit ends.
Can I change employers without leaving China?
Usually yes, by cancelling or changing your work permit and residence permit with the new employer. Arrange it before you leave the old job. Read about changing jobs.
Can I extend my business visa in China?
Often, yes. Business visas can be extended or reissued at local exit-entry offices in many cases, within the rules for your situation.
This guide explains general practice based on Scott’s experience. Requirements depend on your city, nationality and circumstances, and the authorities make the final decision.