This guide highlights crucial tips for foreigners in China, including registering your residence, keeping your documents up-to-date, and accessing emergency contacts. We'll help you navigate these necessities efficiently to ensure a trouble-free stay.

I. Residence registration needs to be completed after entry into China as soon as possible

(I) For foreigners staying in a hotel, residence registration can be handled by the hotel. 

Foreigners can register residence by presenting a valid passport or other international travel documents at the hotel reception.

(II) Foreigners, who stay elsewhere, need to  register residence at the local police station within 24 hours after arrival. 

Foreigners can register your residence at the local police station by presenting a valid passport or other international travel documents, along with the rental contract or immovable property rights certificate.

II. Matters requiring special attention when foreigners work and live in China

(I) Validity period of visa. 

Foreigners, who enter China with a visa and plan to work and live in China, need to apply for a residence permit within 30 days from the date of entry according to relevant requirements. If an extension of the duration of stay specified in the visa is required, the application should be submitted to the exit and entry administration authority of the public security organ of the local people's government at or above the county level in the place of residence, at least 7 days before the expiration of the duration of stay specified in the visa, with the relevant materials relating to the purpose of the application.

(II) Validity period of residence permit.

Foreigners, who need to stay in China after the expiration of residence permits, shall apply for an extension 30 days before the expiration. Foreigners, who hold a valid residence permit and have changed passport or had other items on the residence permit changed, shall apply to the exit and entry administration authority of the public security organ for information change within 10 days from the date the changes occur.

(III) Validity period of work permit.

1. Foreigners working within China should obtain a work permit. Those who work in China for no more than 90 days shall apply for a Z visa from the Chinese embassy (consulate) with the Notification Letter for Foreigner's Work Permit, and work in China within the time indicated on the visa. Those who work in China more than 90 days shall apply for a Z visa from the Chinese embassy (consulate) with the Notification Letter for Foreigner's Work Permit, and apply to the administration department of foreigners working in China where the employer is located for a Foreigner's Work Permit within 30 days from the date of entry, and work in China within the validity period of the work permit.

2. An application for extension shall be submitted to the administration department of foreigners working in China where the employer is located 30 days before the expiration of the Foreigner's Work Permit.

3. In case of any change in personal information (name, passport number, and position), an application for change shall be submitted to the administration department of foreigners working in China where the employer is located within 10 working days from the date the changes occur.

(IV) Others.

1. Foreigners must abide by the laws and regulations of China when writing comments on social media in China.

2. Foreigners must comply with relevant regulations when keeping dogs, cats, and other pets.

3. Foreigners are not allowed to photograph military installations, including buildings, sites, and facilities directly used by China for military purposes.

III. How to get help in case of emergencies

In case of personal assault or property crimes, please call 110.

In case of fire, please call 119.

In case of first aid, please call 120.

In case of passport loss, please report it to the local police station immediately.

Source: National Immigration Administration

This article is updated on April 22, 2024.