Ready to get your residency in China in 2026? Explore this article for information on this topic and then get in touch with our Chinese lawyers for complete legal advice.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Temporary residence permit types |
– Work Visa, – Student Visa, – Long Stay Journalist visas (Z, X, J-1) |
|
Time needed to obtain temporary residence permit (approx.) |
6 weeks |
|
Temporary residence permit validity |
1 year |
| Documents for obtaining temporary residence |
– passport with valid entry visa, – completed visa application form with official stamp, – original registration form of temporary residence, – family member’s passport with a valid residence permit, – two passport photos with white or light blue background |
| Mandatory registrations with state authorities (i.e. with the population/ municipality register) |
Documents submitted to the Immigration Service Center of Exit-Entry Administration Bureau of Shanghai Public Security Bureau |
| Dependents can join the temporary permit holder (Yes/No) |
Yes Our lawyers can offer details about how to immigrate to China. |
| Types of investment available for residency purposes |
– an individual can invest a capital of at least CNY 10 million in China; – make investments in regions prescribed by the government; – establish a high tech or innovative enterprise |
| Temporary or permanent residency for investment purposes |
Yes |
| Minimum investment amount |
CNY 600,000 |
| Minimum temporary residence before applying for permanent residence |
Four years Our team can offer details about how to immigrate to China. |
| Residency for individuals married to a citizen of the country | Permanent residence |
| Documents for obtaining permanent residence |
– complete application form for permanent residence in China, – valid passport and valid visa; – passport photos; – a health certificate; – non-criminal record abroad; – complete resume of the applicant Our lawyers can offer details about how to immigrate to China. |
| Naturalization requirements |
– immediate family with Chinese nationality, – possess permanent residency in mainland China or a special administrative region, – have other “legitimate reasons”. |
| Citizenship after permanent residence |
Yes |
| Dual citizenship permitted (Yes/No) | No |
Table of Contents
Who needs a residence permit in China?
Foreign citizens who want to stay/relocate to China for more than 180 days for:
- family visits,
- work purposes,
- studies,
- medical treatments, etc.
What types of residence permits are available in China?
- Temporary residence permits are required for those who want to stay for more than 6 months in China, but not more than a year. Various visits are allowed with this type of residence permit.
- Permanent residence permits are renewed once every 10 years and are connected to the D visas. China’s permanent residence permits are also called “Green Cards”.
- Foreigner residence permits can be renewed every year and are required for most categories of foreign workers in China, except investors, company directors, etc.
When is it required to apply for a residence permit in China?
Within 30 days of the entry for stays of more than 180 days.
What are the formalities to get a residence permit in China?
- prepare the documents,
- present a valid passport and 2 photos,
- prove the domiciliation in China,
- pay the application fee.
Below is an infographic with information on this topic:
What documents are required to get a Chinese residence permit?
- a health certificate known as a Foreigner’s Physical Examination Certificate, issued by an approved hospital/clinic in China,
- a clear criminal record from the Chinese embassy or consulate in the country of origin,
- complete a standard application form from the Public Security Bureau,
- employment contract in the case of foreign workers relocating to China,
- admission letters in the case of foreign students, etc.
IMPORTANT! Some regions in China impose specific immigration & residency conditions. Make sure you work with a Chinese lawyer at the time of application, and thus avoid possible application rejections.
Where are the documents submitted for a residency permit application in China?
At the Public Security Bureau. Once accepted, applicants will get a receipt serving as a temporary travel document to stay in China.
What other extra requirements are imposed at the time of arrival in China?
You must register your domicile within 24 hours of arrival at the local police station with your foreign passport, regardless of your accommodation (hotel, rented house, etc.).
What is a green card in China, and when is this document needed?
The Chinese green card is the same thing as a permanent residence card in China. This document is issued to certain categories of foreigners who work in China for an indefinite period.
What is the validity of a residence permit in China?
From 90 days to 5 years, depending on the purpose of your relocation to China.
You might also want to watch the following video presentation on this subject:
What happens if I change my address while having the permit issued in China?
You will have to notify the local immigration authority/police station of any modifications and update your new domicile.
What is a J1 visa in China?
A type of residence permit issued for journalists traveling to China, with a validity of one year.
What is an S1 visa in China?
A type of residency permit issued for private affairs like family visits, valid for one year. Applicants must provide a certificate stating the relationship (parents, minors, etc.).
What is the validity of a residence permit in China for a foreign student?
Foreign students in Shanghai can obtain a residence permit with a validity of 2 years. This program is dedicated to this category of students, which will simplify their path to entrepreneurship in China.
Are there any residency requirements to consider for special categories of citizens?
- non-Chinese children less than 18 years of age, parents, or spouses of Chinese citizens or foreigners who have permanent residence status in the People’s Republic of China can apply for a family residence permit;
- overseas Chinese who are above 18 years of age and who come to China to take care of their parents above 60 years of age can apply for a family residence permit in China.
Ready to get your residency permit in China in 2026? Please contact our law firm in China and solicit legal representation and advice.