China launches Nationwide Online Accommodation Registration Service For Foreigners
A Quick Guide for Foreigners Applying for Accommodation Registration Form
The good news: Since September 21, 2026, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) has rolled out nationwide online registration for foreigners staying outside hotels, no longer need to visit a police station in person.
If you are a foreign national planning to apply for a Chinese residence permit (居住证/居留许可) or a work permit (工作证/工作许可), completing your accommodation registration is not just a legal formality—it is a critical prerequisite. Chinese public security authorities will check your accommodation registration record when processing your residence or work permit application. Failure to register or delayed registration may cause unnecessary delays or even rejection of your application.
This guide is designed specifically for foreigners who need to obtain or renew a residence permit or work permit in China and are staying in a private home, rented apartment, or any non-hotel residence. It walks you through the official online registration process using the National Immigration Administration (NIA) 12367 service, so you can complete the requirement quickly and securely—without visiting a police station in person.
1. Who Must Register
You must register if you stay in:
A friend’s or relative’s home
A rented apartment or room
A company dorm, talent apartment, or any non-hotel residence
Hotels handle registration for you automatically.
⏱ Deadline: Within 24 hours of check-in.
Online registration has the same legal effect as in-person registration.
Under Article 39 of China's Exit and Entry Administration Law, foreigners staying outside hotels must register with local public security authorities within 24 hours of arrival, either by themselves or through their hosts. Hotels are required to register foreign guests and report their accommodation information to local public security authorities.
2. Why It Matters for Permit Applicants
Exit-entry authorities will check your accommodation registration record when you apply for a visa, residence permit, or work permit. A clean, up-to-date registration:
Proves your legal stay at a verifiable address
Prevents delays or rejections in your permit process
Can be reused for bank accounts, SIM cards, and other setup steps
3. Official Channels (NIA 12367)
Register through any official platform:
WeChat: “移民局12367” mini-program
Alipay: “移民局12367” mini-program
App: NIA 12367 mobile app
Web: https://s.nia.gov.cn
4. Step-by-Step for Online Registration
Step 1 — Open Foreigner Service
In the mini-program or app, go to Foreigner Service → Accommodation Registration.
Step 2 — Verify Identity
Log in, select passport as document type, upload the data page, and complete face recognition.
Step 3 — Choose Registration Mode
Host-assisted (recommended for first-time registration)
Self-registration (if you’ve registered the same address before, or it’s your own property)
Step 4 — Fill in Stay Details
Full address (province → city → district → street → room)
Check-in date
Length of stay (under 1 month / 1–6 months / over 6 months)
Housing type (staying with host / renting)
Step 5 — Host Verification
The host receives an SMS code; enter it to confirm.
Step 6 — Submit & Save
Submit, then screenshot the success screen. The electronic record is valid proof — no paper form required.
5. When You Don’t Need to Re-Register
You can skip re-registration if:
You return to the same registered address
You return to your own residence in China after travel
You hold a residence/permanent residence permit and return to your habitual residence during the same permit validity
(“Habitual residence” = where you live or plan to live over 180 days.)
6. Key Reminders
Register within 24 hours — late or missing registration may lead to a warning or fine
Address on the registration must match the address used in your permit application
Either you or your host can complete the filing
Need help? Call 12367 or visit a local exit-entry window
Quick Checklist for Accommodation Registration
Passport data page photo ready
Full local address prepared
Check-in date confirmed
Host name + phone available
Registered within 24 hours
Success screenshot saved for permit application
Complete this in a few minutes on your phone — and you’re ready for the next step in your residence or work permit process.
Download the PDF guide
Let ExpertinChina Handle the Next Steps
Accommodation registration is just the first step. If you're applying for a Chinese work permit, Z visa, or residence permit, ExpertinChina can take care of the rest — from work permit notifications and residence permit filings to payroll, tax, and relocation compliance, so you don't miss a deadline or a document. Contact us today!
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