Applying for permanent residence in China requires meeting specific health standards established by Chinese authorities.
This comprehensive guide covers the official health check requirements, designated facilities, testing procedures, and essential preparation tips based on the latest regulations.
Official Health Check Requirements
According to the National Immigration Administration’s guidelines, all permanent residence applicants must submit a health certificate that meets the following criteria:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Must be issued by a domestic Chinese entry-exit inspection facility |
| Validity Period | Must be issued within the last 6 months of application |
| Format | Official health certificate with proper stamps and signatures |
| Language | Chinese (with certified translations if original documents are in other languages) |
Source: National Immigration Administration Guidelines
Designated Medical Facilities
Health examinations must be conducted at officially designated medical facilities. Self-arranged examinations at non-approved facilities will not be accepted.
| City | Major Approved Facilities | Appointment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing | Beijing International Travel Healthcare Center | Online booking or phone |
| Shanghai | Shanghai International Travel Healthcare Center | WeChat mini-program or in-person |
| Guangzhou | Guangzhou International Travel Healthcare Center | Online registration system |
| Shenzhen | Shenzhen International Travel Healthcare Center | Phone appointment |
Note: Always verify the current list of approved facilities through the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau before scheduling your examination.
Required Medical Examinations
The standard health check includes the following examinations:
- Physical Examination
- Height, weight, blood pressure
- General physical condition assessment
- BMI calculation
- Laboratory Tests
- Blood tests (including HIV, hepatitis B/C, syphilis)
- Urinalysis
- Blood type determination
- Imaging Studies
- Chest X-ray (tuberculosis screening)
- Additional imaging as required based on initial findings
- Specialized Assessments
- Vision and hearing tests
- Mental health evaluation
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) for applicants over 40
- Infectious Disease Screening
- COVID-19 related tests (requirements may vary)
- Other communicable disease screening
Potential Disqualifying Conditions
While minor health issues typically don’t affect applications, certain conditions may result in rejection:
- Active infectious diseases (particularly tuberculosis)
- Serious mental disorders
- Drug addiction
- Conditions deemed to pose public health risks
- Inability to live independently due to severe disability (case-by-case basis)
Preparation Tips
Before Your Appointment
- Fast for 8-12 hours before your examination (water is permitted)
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing
- Bring your passport and appointment confirmation
- Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed for examinations
- Bring payment (cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay depending on the facility)
- Schedule your appointment at least 2-3 weeks before your application deadline
Cost Considerations
Health examination fees vary by location and specific tests required:
| City | Basic Package Cost (2025) | Additional Tests |
|---|---|---|
| Tier-1 Cities | ¥800-1,200 | ¥100-500 per test |
| Tier-2 Cities | ¥600-900 | ¥80-400 per test |
| Tier-3 Cities | ¥400-700 | ¥50-300 per test |
Source: Survey of International Medical Facilities in China, 2025
Regional Variations
Health check requirements may vary slightly between regions:
- Shanghai requires additional blood tests for certain applicants
- Beijing has implemented enhanced mental health screening
- Guangdong Province may require additional tests for applicants from specific countries
- Special Economic Zones sometimes have expedited health check processes
After the Health Check
Upon completion of all required examinations:
- Results are typically available within 3-7 working days
- The official health certificate will be issued if all tests are passed
- This certificate must be submitted with your permanent residence application
- Certificates are valid for 6 months from the date of issue
What If You Fail?
If your health check reveals disqualifying conditions:
- You’ll receive detailed information about the specific issue
- Minor conditions may require treatment and re-examination
- For serious conditions, you may need to postpone your application
- Some conditions may qualify for medical waivers (case-by-case basis)
Real-World Experiences
According to a 2024 survey of successful permanent residence applicants:
- 92% completed their health checks without complications
- The average processing time was 5 business days
- 76% recommended scheduling morning appointments to avoid crowds
- 88% found the staff at designated facilities spoke basic English
Additional Resources
- China Visa Application Service Center
- China Foreign Affairs Ministry – Consular Services
- Expatriate Health Insurance Comparison Tool
Conclusion
The health check is a critical component of China’s permanent residence application process.
By understanding the requirements, preparing adequately, and following official guidelines, applicants can navigate this step successfully.
Remember that requirements may change, so always verify the latest information through official channels before proceeding with your application.
About the Author
