Residence Permit

Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China
2024-04-24

Foreigners who, after entering China, need to reside within the territory of the country due to reasons other than diplomatic or official matters shall apply for a residence permit and its extension, change or re-issuance in person at the exit and entry administration authority of China's public security organs to complete relevant formalities. For a foreigner who is a high-level talent or urgently-needed professional, or is under 16 years old or over 60 years old, or with disabilities due to illness or other reasons, the inviting entity/individual, families or relatives of the applicant or a specialized service agency may file the application on behalf of the applicant. Documents required for residence permit application are as follows:

(I) Valid passports or other international travel documents;

(II) A completed Foreigner Visa Application Form, and a 33×48mm bareheaded color ID photo taken recently against a white background (free on-site photography is available);

(III) Supporting documents concerning the reason for the residence permit application;

(IV) Supporting documents concerning other relevant procedures.

For the application materials and requirements, the basic process and method of handling, the time limit and other specific details about residence permit application, foreigners can visit the official website of China's National Immigration Administration and refer to the Service Guide on Issuance of Residence Permit for Foreigners under "Services", the requirements for the photos for travel documents can be found in the Guidelines for Travel Documents Photographs in the "Services" section. Additionally, you can find the office address and contact information of local exit-entry reception halls in "Office Enquiries" under "Services". You can also dial 12367 for further information.

Address of the official website of the National Immigration Administration: https://www.nia.gov.cn