Coming to China for Care: Hospital Invitation Letters & Visa Categories

China does not issue a single nationwide “medical visa” product identical to some other countries’ schemes. In practice, foreigners seeking treatment usually apply under an ordinary visa category that matches consular guidance—commonly short-term private-affairs (S2) for medical stays in some posts, or other categories depending on nationality and itinerary—supported by hospital documents.

A hospital invitation / admission letter remains the critical supporting file: patient passport name must match exactly; intended department, approximate dates, and companion details should be clear. Keep diagnosis summaries concise with certified translation when required. Consulate rules, appointment lead times, and visa-free options (for example selected Hainan policies) change by location—always follow the local Chinese embassy/consulate checklist rather than generic blogs.