How to Register Accommodations in China: A Must-Read Guide for Foreign Visitors
Under Chinese law, all foreign passport holders staying in China must complete accommodation registration. This requirement facilitates management and ensures the safety of all individuals in China.
Please be sure to understand and comply with the following requirements:
Who needs to register?
All foreign nationals (including naturalized Chinese citizens) staying in China must register.
When to Register?
Complete registration within 24 hours of check-in.
How to Register?
Registration methods vary by accommodation type:
1. Staying at a Hotel or Licensed Foreign-Friendly Homestay
- Present your passport during check-in; the hotel will complete registration for you.
- We recommend verifying the hotel’s qualifications for foreign guests before booking.
2. Staying at a relative/friend’s residence or rented property
- In-person registration: Please bring the required documents to the local police station or immigration office in your area of residence.
- Online registration: Some major cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen) offer online reporting via local public security bureau immigration websites or WeChat official accounts. Check local regulations beforehand.
Required Documents
- Original passport (including copies of the personal information page, valid visa pages, and most recent entry stamp page)
- Accommodation proof:
Rental property: Original and copy of the lease agreement
Staying with relatives/friends: Host’s ID and property ownership proof, or a written accommodation statement from the property owner
- One 2-inch blue-background ID photo (may be required at some locations)
Consequences of Non-Registration
Failure to register as required may result in warnings, fines (amount determined by circumstances), and may affect future visa applications, extensions, or entry/exit records. Please complete registration on time to avoid unnecessary complications.
Important Reminders
- Registration is free of charge.
- Update your registration details within 10 days if your accommodation address or contact information changes.
- Safely store the“Temporary Accommodation Registration Form for Foreign Nationals” received upon completion alongside your passport for verification purposes.
- If facing language barriers, utilize translation software or request assistance from staff.
We wish you a pleasant journey in China and thank you for complying with local regulations.
