Common paths
- Work visa (Z): employer-sponsored; most common for professionals.
- Study visa (X): for degree or language programs.
- Family / dependent: tied to a sponsor's valid residence permit.
- Talent / permanent residency: for qualified long-stay applicants.
Accommodation registration (24-hour rule)
Under Article 39 of China’s Exit-Entry Administration Law, any foreigner staying in a non-hotel residence must register with the local public security authorities within 24 hours of moving in. Either you or the landlord can complete the registration.
- Where: local police station (派出所) or neighborhood office where the property is located.
- Bring: passport, lease agreement, landlord ID, and property ownership certificate (房产证).
- Tip: Old buildings and communities without property management often skip this step. Confirm it was done and keep the receipt.
Why it matters: Failure to register can result in a warning or fine, and missing records may complicate visa renewals or residence-permit applications.
中文参考：「外国人在旅馆以外的其他住所居住或者住宿的，应当在入住后24小时内由本人或者留宿人，向居住地的公安机关办理登记。」
Read the full Rental Survival Guide →
Visa-free entry (50 countries + 240-hour transit)
Ordinary passport holders of 50 countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits or exchange. A separate 240-hour transit exemption is available for travelers passing through to a third destination. Visa-free entry removes the pre-departure visa step, but you still need an onward ticket, accommodation details and 24-hour police registration.
Read the Visa-Free Entry Guide →
Family visit visas (Q & S)
Bringing family to China? Whether you need a Q visa (inviter is a Chinese citizen or permanent resident) or an S visa (inviter is a foreigner on a work/study permit) depends on the inviter's status. Stays over 180 days need Q1/S1 with a residence permit; shorter stays use Q2/S2.
Read the Family Visit Visa Guide (Q vs S) →
After arrival
Residence permit, bank account, phone number and insurance are the usual next steps — see Settlement services.