Explainer | Want to work in China? The government has a guide – and we’ve summarised it

China’s Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with other state agencies, has updated the 2025 edition of its “Guide to Working and Living in China as Business Expatriates”, which addresses many of the questions foreign nationals have about how to travel to or work in the country legally.

How can expatriates register as residents?

Those who come to China for reasons other than official or diplomatic matters must apply for a residence permit within 30 days of their entry.

These visa holders can, with a valid passport and international travel documents, register for their residence permits at a hotel or at their residence’s local police station. Registration at a police station also requires rental contracts and property ownership certificates.

Extension of the residence permit requires a new application, made at least 30 days before expiration. The length of a permit’s validity can vary depending on a variety of factors.

If information on an existing residence permit changes – a new job or passport, for instance – the holder must inform their local exit and entry administration of the change within 10 days.