Q2 is for a short-term visit to family in China, not for tourism. Sightseeing is usually L. Long-term family is Q1.
24 Hour Passport & Visas is a private expediter. We are not the Chinese consulate and not a U.S. Passport Agency. Drop at Beverly Boulevard. We hand-carry to the Chinese Consulate General at 500 Shatto Place. Call 310-913-7804.
Q2 vs L vs Q1
Source: Los Angeles consulate ordinary visas
- L — tourism. Extra invitation documents have not been required for L since 1 January 2024.
- Q2 — short-term family visit to a Chinese citizen in China or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence in China. Consulate heading: no more than 180 days. Do not treat that as a promised stay length; the officer prints it.
- Q1 — longer family reunion (consulate heading more than 180 days), with extra kinship originals.
Business travel is M, not F.
Invitation
Host: a Chinese citizen living in China, or a foreigner with Chinese permanent residence living in China. Upload the host’s Chinese ID, or foreign passport plus Chinese PR permit.
Annex 1 letter must include: host name, gender, date of birth, ID or passport plus PR number, address in China, phone, email; invitee and relationship; planned date and days; signature and date.
How to apply in Los Angeles
Apply in the Los Angeles consulate jurisdiction only (Southern California, AZ, NM, UT, CO, HI, Pacific Islands). Complete COVA and select Los Angeles. When status reads Passport to be submitted, drop at Beverly. See China visa drop-off in Los Angeles. You do not need a consulate appointment. Fingerprints are not currently required. 30-day window.
FAQs
What is a China Q2 visa?
A short-term family visit visa, not a tourist L. You need a host invitation.
Do I need an invitation letter for Q2?
Yes. The host in China provides the letter (Annex 1) plus ID or passport and PR proof.
Can I drop a Q2 file at Beverly Boulevard?
Yes. Drop at our Los Angeles office. We hand-carry to the Chinese Consulate General. See China visa drop-off in Los Angeles.