Last updated: March 2025
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, regulations may change. Always verify current requirements with official sources or your local police station.
Foreign nationals in China are legally required to register their temporary residence with the local police station within 24 hours of arrival in urban areas (or 72 hours in rural areas).
This registration is mandated under Article 39 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China and is essential for maintaining legal status while in the country.
This guide provides up-to-date information on the registration process, required documents, and practical advice to help you navigate this important administrative procedure.
Why Registration is Important
Registration with local authorities is not just a legal formality—it serves several practical purposes:
- Avoids fines of up to 2,000 yuan for non-compliance
- Provides necessary documentation for visa renewals and residence permit applications
- Serves as proof of address for various administrative procedures
- Required to be carried with your passport at all times
- May be requested during routine identity checks by authorities
Registration Methods
Option 1: Hotel Registration
If you’re staying at a hotel, the registration process varies depending on the establishment:
| Hotel Type | Registration Process |
|---|---|
| International chains and star-rated hotels | Staff automatically handle registration during check-in |
| Mid-range hotels | Usually handle registration but may require your presence |
| Budget accommodations and hostels | May require you to register yourself at the local police station |
| Unlicensed accommodations | Cannot register foreigners; you must register yourself |
Note: Not all accommodations in China are licensed to host foreign guests. Always confirm this before booking, especially with budget options.
Option 2: Self-Registration
If you’re staying in a private residence (your own apartment, or with friends), you must register yourself at the local police station that has jurisdiction over your address.
Required Documents
The following table outlines documents typically required for registration. Requirements may vary by location, so it’s advisable to call ahead or check the local Public Security Bureau website.
| Document | Details | Required For |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Original passport with valid visa and most recent entry stamp | All registrations |
| Passport photocopies | Copies of information page, visa page, and most recent entry stamp | All registrations |
| Rental agreement | Signed copy of your lease agreement | When registering a rented residence |
| Landlord’s ID | Copy of landlord’s Chinese ID card (身份证) | When registering a rented residence |
| Landlord’s contact information | Phone number and WeChat (if available) | When registering a rented residence |
| Property ownership certificate | Copy of the property deed (房产证) | Sometimes required for rented residences |
| Host’s registration form | If staying with a friend, their temporary residence registration form | When staying with others |
| Previous registration form | If you’re re-registering after travel abroad | For returning residents |
| Local phone number | A Chinese mobile number registered in your name | All registrations |
| Residence permit | If you have one | For long-term residents |
Regional Variations
Registration requirements can vary significantly between cities and even between districts within the same city:
| City | Notable Variations |
|---|---|
| Beijing | Some districts require landlord to be present; stricter document verification |
| Shanghai | Some areas offer online pre-registration through the “Jing’an Police” WeChat mini-program |
| Guangzhou | May require additional proof of relationship if staying with family/friends |
| Shenzhen | Some police stations offer English-speaking staff; digital registration options |
| Smaller cities | May have less experience with foreigners; process might take longer |
Step-by-Step Registration Process
- Locate your local police station
- Use map apps like Baidu Maps or Amap to search for “派出所” (police station)
- Ask your landlord, hotel staff, or community management office
- Check the official website of your city’s Public Security Bureau
- Prepare all required documents
- Make copies of all documents in advance
- Have digital copies on your phone as backup
- Visit the police station
- Best times: Weekday mornings (9-11am) typically have shorter wait times
- Avoid holidays and the beginning/end of each month when stations are busiest
- Bring a Chinese-speaking friend if possible, as English services are limited
- Complete the registration
- Look for the foreigner registration window (外国人登记)
- Fill out the registration form (may be available in English in major cities)
- Submit all required documents
- Answer any questions from the officer
- Receive your “Registration Form of Temporary Residence” (临时住宿登记表)
- Keep your registration form safe
- Make copies and take photos of the form
- Keep the original with your passport at all times
Digital Registration Options
Some cities now offer digital registration options:
| City | Digital Platform | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | “Shanghai Police” WeChat mini-program | Pre-registration and appointment booking |
| Beijing | “Beijing Public Security” (北京公安) app | Registration for some districts |
| Guangzhou | “Guangzhou Public Security” WeChat account | Information and pre-registration |
| Shenzhen | “i深圳” (i-Shenzhen) app | Digital registration in some areas |
Re-registration Requirements
You must obtain a new registration form within 24 hours when:
- Moving to a new address
- Receiving a new passport
- Getting a new visa or residence permit
- Returning to China after traveling abroad (policies vary by location)
Consequences of Late Registration
According to Article 76 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law:
| Violation | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|
| Late registration (within a few days) | Verbal warning |
| Late registration (extended period) | Fine up to 2,000 yuan (approximately $300 USD) |
| Repeated violations | Potential impact on future visa applications |
If you’ve missed the deadline, it’s still better to register late than not at all. Bring a polite explanation for the delay and any supporting documentation.
Practical Tips
- Language barrier: Bring a translation app or Chinese-speaking friend
- Timing: Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Preparation: Have all documents organized and multiple copies ready
- Patience: The process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour
- Local knowledge: Join expat WeChat groups for city-specific advice
- Emergency registration: If arriving on a weekend when some stations are closed, hotels can often register you temporarily
Official Resources
- National Immigration Administration: Official website with regulations and announcements
- China Visa Application Service Center: Information on visa requirements and regulations
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Updates on entry policies and regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to register if I’m just visiting for a few days?
A: Yes, the registration requirement applies regardless of the length of your stay.
Q: What if my landlord refuses to provide the required documents?
A: This is a legal obligation for landlords renting to foreigners. If they refuse, you may need to seek alternative accommodation, as you cannot legally stay without registration.
Q: Can someone register on my behalf?
A: In most cases, you must be present in person. Some exceptions exist for family members or in special circumstances.
Q: What if I’m staying in multiple locations during my visit?
A: You need to register at each location where you stay for 24 hours or more.
Q: How long is the registration valid?
A: The registration is typically valid for the duration of your stay at that specific address, or until your visa/residence permit expires, whichever comes first.
