Updated Aug 25, 2025
If you’ve lived in China and are planning to work, study, or immigrate to another country, obtaining a China Police Clearance Certificate (also known as a Non-Criminal Record Certificate or 无犯罪记录证明) is often a crucial requirement.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting this important document.
What is a China Police Clearance Certificate?
A China Police Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by Chinese authorities that confirms whether you have a criminal record during your time in China.
It’s also known by several names:
- Non-Criminal Record Certificate
- Chinese Police Certificate
- China Police Check
- Certificate of No Criminal Record
Important Note: The certificate only covers the time you were living in China during the period when your passport or permanent residence permit was valid. It doesn’t cover activities outside China or before your documents were issued.
When Do You Need This Certificate?
You’ll typically need a China Police Clearance Certificate for:
For Use Within China
- Employment applications with Chinese companies
- University applications
- Marriage registration procedures
- Chinese permanent residency applications
For Use Outside China
- Visa applications for work, study, or immigration to another country
- Permanent residency applications abroad
- Employment background checks for international positions
- Immigration processes requiring proof of clean criminal record
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a China Police Clearance Certificate, you must meet these criteria:
- Minimum Stay: At least 180 days in China since your first arrival
- Valid Documentation: Hold either a residence permit or permanent residence ID
- Legal Status: Your stay must have been legally documented
Note: Employers can also request criminal record checks for current or potential foreign employees, following relevant employment laws.
Where to Apply
Primary Application Location
Each district has its own Exit-Entry Bureau (a department of the Public Security Bureau).
You can apply at any district’s Exit-Entry Bureau office – you don’t need to go to the main Pudong office in Shanghai.
Finding Your Local Office
- Visit the official website: s.nia.gov.cn/mps/main-en.html
- Click on “Issuing Authorities”
- Type in your district name and press search
- Get the address and contact information for your local office
Required Documents
For Individual Applications
- Valid Passport: Original and copies of all relevant pages
- Chinese Residence Permit or Visa: Proof of your legal stay in China
- Proof of Residence: Rental agreements, utility bills, or registration documents
- Passport-sized Photos: Recent photos meeting application requirements
- Completed Application Form: Available from Exit-Entry Bureau or their website
For Company-Sponsored Applications
Companies applying on behalf of foreign employees must provide:
- Employee’s passport and residence permit copies
- Company business license
- Official company letter explaining the purpose
- Authorization from the employee
For Representative Applications
If someone else applies on your behalf:
- Power of Attorney (POA): Properly notarized and legalized
- Representative’s ID: Valid identification document
- Your passport copy: All relevant pages
- Photo requirement: Picture of you holding the signed authorization letter and passport
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Confirm the Requirement
Check with immigration or visa authorities in your destination country to confirm specific requirements for the China Police Clearance Certificate.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Collect all required documents based on your application type (individual, company-sponsored, or through representative).
Step 3: Submit Application
- If in China: Visit your local Exit-Entry Bureau directly
- If abroad: Have your authorized representative submit the application
Step 4: Pay Fees
- Application fees: Typically 100-300 RMB (some cities like Shanghai may provide it free)
- Keep payment receipts for your records
Step 5: Processing Time
- Standard processing: 3 working days
- Complex cases: May require additional investigation time (not counted toward official processing time)
- Plan ahead: Apply well in advance of deadlines
Step 6: Collect Certificate
Verify all details on the certificate including name, passport number, and residence dates for accuracy.
Important Limitations and Restrictions
Application Frequency
- Annual limit: Maximum 3 applications per year
- Additional applications: After 3 times in one year, you must provide documentation proving legitimate purpose
- Valid reasons include: Employment, study abroad, immigration
Certificate Validity
- Expiration: Typically 3 months from issue date (may vary by region)
- No extensions: Must apply for new certificate after expiration
- Original only: Copies are not legally valid – only original stamped documents are accepted
For Use Outside China: Additional Steps
If you plan to use the certificate abroad, you’ll need additional processing:
Step 1: Notarization
- Location: Any notary office in China
- Cost: Around 200-500 RMB
- Find offices: Use the Government Online-Offline Shanghai app and search for “notary office”
Step 2: Legalization
- Location: Local Foreign Affairs Office (FAO)
- Cost: Around 200-500 RMB
- Purpose: Makes the document legally valid for international use
Special Procedures for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan Residents
Online Application Available
Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan residents can apply online through:
- Government Online-Offline Shanghai mini program (WeChat/Alipay)
- Official Shanghai app
Processing Time
- Standard cases: 1 working day
- Complex cases: Up to 3 working days
Required Documents
For Hong Kong/Macau residents:
- Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents
- Proof of residence in China
For Taiwan residents:
- Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents
- Proof of residence in China
Urgent Cases Without Residence Permit
Can apply in person at local police stations on a case-by-case basis.
Cost Breakdown
Total Cost Estimate
- Application fee: 100-300 RMB (varies by city)
- Notarization: 200-500 RMB
- Legalization: 200-500 RMB
- Total for international use: 500-1,300 RMB
Note: Some cities like Shanghai may provide the certificate free of charge.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Applying from Abroad
- Ensure your representative has properly notarized and legalized Power of Attorney
- Provide clear contact information for follow-up questions
- Allow extra time for coordination with your representative
Regional Variations
- Requirements and fees differ between cities
- Contact your specific city’s Exit-Entry Bureau for exact details
- Processing times may vary by location
Lost Documents
- Contact former employer for assistance with lost residence permits
- Reach out to local authorities where you previously lived
- Keep digital copies of all important documents
Translation Requirements
- Have certificates translated by certified translators if not in English
- Some countries require specific translation formats
- Check destination country requirements
Expert Tips for Success
- Start Early: Begin the process 2-3 months before you need the certificate
- Double-Check Details: Verify all information on application forms
- Keep Records: Save copies of all documents and receipts
- Follow Up: Contact offices if processing exceeds estimated timeframes
- Professional Help: Consider hiring immigration consultants for complex cases
- Digital Copies: Scan all documents before submitting originals
Conclusion
Obtaining a China Police Clearance Certificate requires careful preparation and attention to detail, but following this comprehensive guide will help ensure a smooth process.
Whether you’re applying from within China or abroad, understanding the requirements, limitations, and proper procedures will save you time and prevent common mistakes.
Remember that this certificate is only valid for a limited time, so coordinate your application timing with your visa or immigration timeline.
With proper planning and the right documentation, you’ll have this crucial document ready for your next life adventure.
For more information on living and working in China, check out our other guides on Ikky in China.
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