Registration guide for international students in China

english.shanghai.gov.cn| September 10, 2025
Registration guide for international students in China-1.jpeg
​[Photo/IC]

Dear students,

Welcome to the start of your academic journey in China! Upon arrival at your university, your first task is to complete the enrollment and begin adapting to campus life.

This guide outlines the registration process and highlights key requirements to help you have a smooth and efficient start to your studies in China.

Registration basics

After arriving in China, you must register at your university within the specified period. Read your admission letter carefully for the exact registration date, location, and any other requirements.

The overall process usually includes accommodation check-in, fee payment, student status registration, a health check, and a residence permit application.

Required documents

  • Original and photocopy of your valid passport and visa (X1 or X2)
  • Original and photocopy of the admission letter
  • Original Visa Application for Study in China Form (JW201/JW202 Form for X1 visas, DQ Form for X2 visas)
  • Recent passport-sized photos
  • Required fees, including registration, tuition, medical insurance, and accommodation
  • The original Certificate of Verification for Physical Examination Record for Foreigners and blood test results (required for programs longer than six months)

Note: Requirements may vary by university. Please refer to your school's official instructions.

Registration guide for international students in China-2.jpeg
​[Photo/IC]

Main steps in registration

1. Accommodation check-in

Complete accommodation procedures and move into the dormitory.

2. Fee payment

Pay tuition, registration fees, and other relevant charges.

3. Medical insurance purchase

Present your passport and admission letter to purchase the required medical insurance in China.

4. Student status registration

Fill out the necessary forms to complete your student registration.

5. Health check

The university will arrange a collective physical examination for new students.

6. Residence permit application

After passing the health check, apply for your residence permit.

Note: Procedures may differ by university. Please follow your school's specific instructions.

Registration guide for international students in China-3.jpeg
​[Photo/IC]

Frequently asked questions

1.What if I cannot arrive and register on time?

If you are unable to register on time due to special circumstances, please inform your university’s international student office in advance to explain your situation and inquire about whether you can delay registration or follow alternative arrangements.

2. Is the health check mandatory?

Yes. According to Chinese regulations, students entering with an X1 visa must undergo a health check. You can complete it either before or after arriving in China:

Pre-arrival check:

Complete the physical examination in your home country and provide the original bilingual Physical Examination Record for Foreigners upon registration. A recheck may be required in China.

Post-arrival check:

If you did not undergo a check before entering China, or if your documents are incomplete, you must take the examination at the local entry-exit inspection and quarantine bureau. The health center will issue a certificate of physical examination, which is required for the residence permit application.

Documents to bring for the health check:

  • Passport
  • Pre-departure health documents (if applicable)
  • Two-inch bareheaded ID photos (available on-site)
  • Copy of admission letter or university certification

Most universities will organize a collective health check for freshmen after the enrollment session. If you miss it, you may be required to take the check at the local entry-exit inspection and quarantine bureau. Please pay attention to your school's notification.

Note: X1 visa holders must apply for a residence permit at the local entry-exit administration of the public security bureau within 30 days of arriving in China, so it is important to complete the health check promptly. X2 visa holders are exempt from the health check.

3.Is medical insurance mandatory?

Yes. According to national regulations, international students studying in China for more than six months must purchase medical insurance. Your university will provide guidance.

For insurance purchase guides:

https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-FAQs-StudyinShanghai/20250825/1c41f83569884262af2d8f0f24756e16.html

For insurance coverage details:

http://lxbx.net/tbzn/coverage2.1-c.html

For claims instructions:

http://lxbx.net/lpsm/claims2.1-c.html

 

We wish you a smooth and enjoyable study experience in Shanghai!

 

Source: campuschina.org