China Police Registration: When & How to do it?

If you are staying in China somewhere other than a hotel, such as at a friend’s home, in a rented flat or in a hostel that is not licensed to accommodate foreign visitors, you may need to register with the local police.

Registration must usually be completed within 24 hours of checking in. You can register in person at a police station or online, while failing to register on time could result in a warning or a fine of up to CNY 2,000 (around £220).

Do you need to register if you're staying at a hotel in China?

If you are staying at a hotel in China, the hotel will normally complete your accommodation registration with the local police on your behalf. You do not usually need to visit a police station yourself.

How to register with the police in China in person?

Image source: wikipedia

If you are unable to complete your registration online, the law requires you to visit the police in person. The step-by-step guide below will help you prepare for the process and complete it with as little hassle as possible.

1. Find the right police station

You need to visit the police station responsible for the address where you are actually staying. In Chinese, a local police station is called 派出所 (pàichūsuǒ). It is best to ask your landlord or host in advance which police station covers the property, as the local jurisdiction is important.

2. Prepare the required documents

The documents you need may vary depending on your situation. Bring both the original documents and copies, as you may otherwise need to make another trip to a nearby service centre.

Main documents (for everyone):

• Your passport, with a valid visa and entry stamp.
• Proof of your place of residence:
• • For tenants: your rental agreement.
  • If staying with relatives or friends: a copy of the property ownership certificate or the host's ID.

Additional contact details:

• The landlord or property owner's phone number.

3. Language barrier

One of the key points to consider is the language barrier. If you do not speak Chinese well enough, it is a good idea to bring someone who can translate for you. This could be your landlord, a friend or a colleague. Having someone to help with translation can prevent misunderstandings and make the registration process quicker.

4. Differences between cities

Keep in mind that police procedures can vary significantly between major cities:

• In Beijing, either the person staying at the property or the property owner must complete the accommodation registration within 24 hours of check-in.
• In Shanghai, the process may be simpler. In some cases, you only need to scan a special QR code displayed in the police station lobby or on information boards.

5. What document will you receive?

After completing the registration, you should receive an official document called the Registration Voucher of Residence for Visitors from Overseas. Keep this document safe, as you may need it when extending your visa, registering with your embassy or consulate, or completing other administrative procedures. It is recommended that you keep it until you leave China.

6. Practical tip for tourists

If you are only staying in China for a short time and do not have a permanent place to stay, many travellers choose a simpler option: booking a hotel for the first few days. Hotels normally register their guests automatically, saving you a separate trip to the police station and avoiding the need to collect documents from a private landlord.

Find hotels in popular Chinese cities and choose a convenient place to stay for your trip.

Find hotels in popular Chinese cities and choose a convenient place to stay for your trip.

How to register online as a foreigner in China?

In some parts of China, you can complete the registration process remotely without visiting a police station. However, online registration for foreign nationals staying in non-hotel accommodation is not currently available nationwide. The NIA 12367 app began piloting this service on 20 March 2026 in seven provincial-level regions: Hebei, Liaoning, Zhejiang, Hubei, Guangxi, Chongqing, and Xinjiang.

The following platforms are available in the pilot regions:

NIA (National Immigration Administration) services:

• The official NIA website
• The NIA 12367 mobile app
• NIA 12367 mini programmes available through WeChat and Alipay

Who Can Submit the Application

The registration can be submitted either by the foreign national themselves or by the host, such as the property owner, landlord or friend you are staying with.

Legal Status and Registration Result

Electronic registration is equivalent to registering in person at a police station and has the same legal validity. Once the process is complete, a Registration Voucher of Residence for Visitors from Overseas will be sent to the email address you provided.

The document is issued electronically. It is recommended that you save it on your device and print a copy if necessary. In some situations, such as extending a visa or dealing with government authorities, you may need a paper copy.

How to Register Using a WeChat Mini Programme: Shanghai Example

Scan the QR code

Register

Step-by-Step Registration Guide

After signing in to your chosen service, follow these steps:

Step 1: Enter Your Document Details

Select your identity document type from the list, usually passport, and upload a scan or clear photo of it. The system will try to read the information automatically from the image. Carefully check all the recognised details against your original document. Correct any errors manually before moving on.

Step 2: Accept the Terms and Submit

Once all the information in the form is accurate, read the declaration and consent to the processing of your information. If you agree to the terms, tick the relevant box or tap the confirmation button, then submit your application for review.

Step 3: Wait for the Result and Save the Document

After submission, your application will be marked as under review. Wait for a notification confirming that the check is complete, which usually takes around an hour. If your application is approved, the system will automatically generate an electronic registration form. Download it and keep it somewhere safe, as you may need it for future administrative procedures in China.

Step 4: What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected

If your application is rejected, check every field you entered again. The most common reason is a typing error, such as an incorrect document number, date of birth or address. Correct the details and submit the application again.

If the system continues to reject your application after several attempts, the remaining option is to visit the nearest police station in your area and complete the registration in person with the help of an officer.

What happens if you do not register within 24 hours?

According to Chinese law, foreign nationals must register their temporary residence within 24 hours of entering China or changing their address. Failing to meet this deadline can lead to administrative and bureaucratic consequences.

1. Warning and fine

This is the most common penalty. Under China's Exit and Entry Administration Law, the following penalty may apply for failing to register your accommodation as required:

Failure to register accommodation: A warning may be issued, with a fine of up to CNY 2,000 (around £220).

The accommodation registration must be completed within 24 hours of arrival. For travellers staying somewhere other than a hotel, such as at a friend's home or in a rented property, registration can be completed by the foreign national or their host at the local police station, community police office, or foreigner service centre. Some areas also offer online registration.

2. Problems with visas and residence documents

This can be more serious than the fine itself:

• Visa or residence permit renewal may be refused. When applying for an extension, you will normally need to provide your accommodation registration record. If the document shows a registration date beyond the 24-hour deadline, or you have no registration record, your application may be rejected.
• The violation may be recorded in the immigration system. A late registration can be added to your record and may affect future applications for long-term visas or work permits. In some cases, foreigners who have failed to register on time have received shorter visa validity periods, such as six months instead of one year.

3. What should you do if you miss the deadline?

If you realise that you have not registered on time, act as soon as possible:

• Visit the local police station as soon as you can and register your accommodation. Bring your passport and rental agreement, or the relevant documents from your host.
• Be prepared for a possible fine. The police may issue a warning and, depending on the circumstances, impose a fine. The amount can depend on how many days late you are and the officer's decision.
• Keep your registration document. Even if you receive a warning or pay a fine, you should still receive an accommodation registration document. Keep it safely, as you may need it for future administrative procedures.

Important note

In practice, for a first offence with a short delay of 1–3 days, some police stations may only issue a verbal warning and ask you to complete the registration immediately. However, if you plan to renew your visa or change your immigration status, even a warning may remain on record and could lead to questions later.

In short: registering within 24 hours is a legal requirement with real consequences. It is best to register as soon as possible, even if you are tired after a long flight.

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