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The UK remains one of the top destinations for Chinese citizens. Over 700,000 people of Chinese descent currently live in the UK, contributing significantly to business, academia, science, and cultural life.

Reasons people move from China to the UK include:

• International career opportunities

• Access to world-class education

• A multicultural environment

• High living standards

• English-language proficiency development

• Potential for permanent residency and citizenship

However, moving to the UK from China requires careful planning due to complex immigration rules, visa fees, and living costs. Understanding the latest UK immigration policies is crucial for a smooth transition.

Yes. Chinese citizens cannot travel to the UK visa-free. Even for tourism or business visits, you must apply for a UK visa in advance.

The UK government treats all non-UK nationals under its points-based immigration system, introduced post-Brexit. This means Chinese nationals have the same visa rules as other non-European migrants.

Several visa categories allow Chinese nationals to live, work, study, or join family members in the UK. Below are the main options for moving to the UK from China in 2025.

The Skilled Worker visa is the most common pathway for Chinese professionals planning to live and work in the UK.

Who can apply?

• Individuals with a confirmed job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor workers

• The job must meet the minimum skill level (RQF3 or above)

• The salary must meet the minimum threshold:

  • £38,700/year (as of 2025)

  • Or the “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher

• You must demonstrate English proficiency (CEFR level B1)

Visa length: Up to 5 years, renewable. You may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.

Allowed activities:

✅ Work in your sponsored job
✅ Bring family members
✅ Access NHS healthcare

A specialist route under the Skilled Worker visa, ideal for Chinese professionals in healthcare sectors (e.g. doctors, nurses, lab technicians).

Benefits:

• Lower salary threshold than the standard Skilled Worker route

• Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Faster processing times

If you complete a degree in the UK, you can remain under the Graduate Visa:

• 2 years after a bachelor’s or master’s degree

• 3 years after a PhD

No sponsorship is required, and you may work in any job, full-time or part-time.

This visa is popular among Chinese students moving to the UK who wish to gain work experience after studying.

The Student Visa allows Chinese nationals to study in the UK at accredited institutions.

Requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK institution

• Proof of English language ability (e.g. IELTS)

• Evidence of funds:

  • Tuition fees

  • £1,334/month for living costs in London

  • £1,023/month elsewhere (2025 rates)

Visa length: Covers the duration of your course plus extra time for travel or switching visas.

Chinese entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas can apply for the Innovator Founder Visa.

Requirements:

• Business idea that is innovative, viable, and scalable

• Endorsement from an approved endorsing body

• No strict minimum investment requirement, but you must show funds to support yourself and your business

This route offers fast-track settlement eligibility after 3 years if your business meets certain success criteria.

Designed for Chinese nationals working for multinational companies, the Global Business Mobility Visas cover:

• Senior or Specialist Worker

• Graduate Trainee

• Secondment Worker

• UK Expansion Worker

These visas allow intra-company transfers but are not direct routes to permanent settlement.

Moving to the UK from China to join family is possible through family visas. You can apply if:

• Your spouse/partner is British or settled in the UK

• You’re joining a parent or child

• You’re a dependent adult requiring long-term care

Spouse/Partner Visa income threshold (2025):

• £29,000/year for the sponsor

• Higher if bringing children

Family visas often lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years.

Chinese citizens visiting the UK for tourism, family visits, or short business trips need a Standard Visitor Visa, allowing stays up to 6 months.

Important: You cannot work or study long-term on a visitor visa.

While each visa has unique criteria, some requirements are consistent across nearly all applications.

English Language Proficiency

Most long-term UK visas require proof of English skills (speaking, reading, writing, listening). Common accepted tests include:

• IELTS

• PTE Academic

• TOEFL iBT

Minimum level: CEFR B1 for many visas.

Tuberculosis (TB) Test

Chinese nationals must take a tuberculosis test if staying in the UK longer than 6 months. Tests are available at clinics approved by the UK Home Office in cities like:

• Beijing

• Shanghai

• Guangzhou

Financial Requirements

Applicants often must prove they can support themselves in the UK:

• Work visas: Either a minimum salary or personal savings if your employer won’t certify maintenance.

• Student visas: Proof of funds for tuition plus living costs.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Most long-term UK visas require payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge:

• £1,035/year (2025 rate)

• Grants access to the National Health Service (NHS)

Health professionals under the Health and Care Worker Visa are exempt.

Applying for a UK visa from China involves several steps. Here’s how to start your journey in 2025:

Step 1: Choose the Right Visa

Visit gov.uk and confirm which visa suits your purpose (work, study, family, business).

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

• Create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

• Fill in your application form accurately.

Step 3: Pay Application Fees

Costs vary by visa type. Additional charges may include:

• Immigration Health Surcharge

• Priority service fees (optional)

Step 4: Book an Appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)

VAC locations in China include:

• Beijing

• Shanghai

• Guangzhou

• Chengdu

• Shenyang

At your appointment, you’ll:

• Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo)

• Provide supporting documents

Step 5: Submit Required Documents

Documents often required include:

• Valid passport

• TB test results

• Financial documents

• English test certificate

• CAS letter for students

• Job offer for workers

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Processing times vary:

• Standard service: ~3 weeks

• Priority service: ~5 working days (extra fee)

Budgeting for your move is crucial. Costs vary based on visa type, lifestyle, and location.

Additional Costs

• IHS surcharge: £1,035/year

• TB test in China: ~1,000–1,500 RMB

• IELTS test fee: ~1,500 RMB

• One-way flight to UK: £400–£900

• Accommodation deposit: Typically 4–6 weeks’ rent

• Shipping belongings: £1,500–£4,000 depending on volume