Foreign nationals who enter China and need to reside in the country for reasons other than diplomatic or official purposes must apply for a residence permit, where required, with the exit-entry administration authorities at their intended place of residence within 30 days after entry.

Documents to prepare

• A valid passport or other international travel documents.
• A completed Visa/Stay Permit/Residence Permit Application Form and a photo that complies with the Guidelines for Exit-Entry Documents Photographs.
• Supporting materials relevant to the purpose of the application.
• Any other required supporting documents and formalities.

If a foreign national's visa indicates that a residence permit must be obtained after entry, the application must be submitted to the exit-entry administration authorities at the intended place of residence within 30 days of arrival in China.

Applicants seeking a residence permit valid for more than one year must submit a valid health certificate confirming that they do not have a serious mental disorder, tuberculosis, or other infectious diseases that may pose a significant threat to public health. In Shanghai, health examinations may be completed at the Shanghai International Travel Healthcare Center. Health certificates issued by international travel healthcare centers in other provinces and cities in China are also accepted.

Residence permits are issued for different purposes, including work, student, journalism, family reunion, and private affairs. Information on application materials, eligibility requirements, procedures, processing times, and other details is available on the official website of the Exit-Entry Administration Corps of Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau.

How to apply

Applications for the issuance, extension, change, or reissuance of a residence permit must be submitted in person. Where applicable, certain services are also available through the foreign nationals' online application platform.

Under the following circumstances, an application may be submitted on the applicant's behalf by the inviting entity or individual, the applicant's family members or relatives, or a professional service agency:

• Individuals recognized as high-level talent or urgently needed professionals.
• Individuals under the age of 16 or over the age of 60, as well as those with mobility limitations due to illness or other reasons.

Extension, change, or reissuance of a residence permit

Applications for an extension should be submitted 30 days before the residence permit expires. If any registered information changes, the holder should apply for an update without delay. If a residence permit is lost, damaged, or stolen, the holder should apply for reissuance promptly.

Processing fees

For a residence permit valid for no more than 1 year: 400 yuan

For a residence permit valid for 1 to 3 years: 800 yuan

For a residence permit valid for 3 to 5 years: 1,000 yuan

Where to apply

Exit-Entry Administration Corps of Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau

Address: No 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm (except for statutory holidays; Saturdays for document acceptance only)

Related: Shanghai exit-entry bureau locations, business hours

Additionally, applicants may inquire through the 12367 immigration service platform for further assistance.

Updated June 9, 2026

Sources: National Immigration Administration, Exit-Entry Administration Corps of Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau