Foreign nationals who have resided in China for at least 180 days may apply for a criminal record check through the exit-entry administration department of the public security authority at or above the county level in their place of residence.

To apply for a Certificate of No Criminal Record for Foreigners in Shanghai, please note the following information:

1. Foreign nationals in China must submit their applications at the exit-entry administration department of the public security authority at or above the county level in their place of residence. Online applications are not available.

2. If you apply in person, you must provide the following materials:

• Original passport(s) and residence permit(s) valid during the period covered by the certificate;
• A copy of the Accommodation Registration Form for Overseas Personnel in Shanghai;
• A completed criminal record check application form specifying the start and end dates of the period to be checked.

3. You may authorize another person with full capacity for civil conduct to apply on your behalf. The authorized representative must submit your valid identification document, a completed criminal record check application form specifying the start and end dates of the period to be checked, a letter of authorization, and the representative's valid identification document to the exit-entry administration department of the public security authority at or above the county level in your place of residence in Shanghai.

4. If the application cannot be processed on the spot, the public security authority will issue an acceptance receipt.

5. All submitted materials are subject to on-site verification. Additional supporting documents may be required if the materials are unclear or insufficient. Applicants who request a criminal record check more than three times in a calendar year must also provide documents showing a legitimate purpose, such as employment, study, or immigration.

Updated Oct 9, 2026

Source: Exit-Entry Administration of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Public Security