2025 Guide📋 Residence Permit🏠

Where visas held by foreigners specify that foreigners need to apply for residence permits after entry, such foreigners shall, within 30 days from the date of their entry, apply to the exit-entry administration authority of the public security organ under the local people's government at or above the county level in the proposed places of residence for foreigners' residence permits.

Foreigners shall apply for a residence permit and its extension, change or re-issuance in person at the exit and entry administration authority of the Chinese mainland's public security organs to complete relevant formalities.

For a foreigner who is:

• A high-level talent or urgently-needed professional, or
• Under 16 years old or over 60 years old, or
• With disabilities due to illness or other reasons

The following may file the application on behalf of the applicant:

1. The inviting entity/individual
2. Families or relatives of the applicant
3. A specialized service agency

📄 Documents Required

( 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 residence permit application;

(IV) Supporting documents required for other procedures.

ℹ️ Additional Information

For the application documents and requirements, processing procedures and methods, the time limit and other specific details about residence permit application, they can:

1. Visit the official website of China's National Immigration Administration and refer to:

   • Service Guide on Issuance, Extension, Change and Reissuance of Residence Permit for Foreigners under "Services"
   • Guidelines for Travel Documents Photographs in the "Services" section

2. Find office address and contact information of local exit-entry reception halls in "Office Enquiries" under "Services"

3. Reach out to the 12367 service platform:

   • Via hotline
   • Through online portal