Temporary Residence Registration (境外人员住宿登记) Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the mandatory 24-hour police registration when renting an apartment in China.
China Expat Legal & Housing Consultant
What is Temporary Residence Registration?
Under Article 39 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China, foreign visitors staying in places other than hotels must register their residence with the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) or local police station (派出所, Pàichūsuǒ) within 24 hours of check-in.
Can Foreigners Rent Any Apartment?
In theory, any residential property with a legally registered landlord is eligible. However, many domestic landlords are unfamiliar with the foreign registration process or lack the requisite property ownership deed (房产证) documentation, leading to unnecessary check-in friction.
At ChinaStayFinder, every listed property is audited before publication to ensure the host understands the registration procedure and provides verified documentation.
Methods of Registration
1. Online WeChat Mini-Programs: Many Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities (such as Chongqing, Chengdu, Shanghai, and Shenzhen) offer fast online selfie and passport upload mini-programs. 2. In-Person Police Station Walk-in: If online self-service is not available for a specific district, your landlord or building concierge will accompany you to the local station with your original passport and the signed lease agreement.
Documents Required
- Original Passport with valid entry stamp / visa
- Signed Tenancy Agreement (租房合同)
- Landlord's National ID Card (身份证) copy
- Property Deed / Ownership Certificate (房产证) copy
- Host's contact telephone number
Unobstructed Riverfront 4-Bedroom Home in Jiangbeizui
Spacious 133 sqm 4-bedroom residence in premier Jiangbeizui CBD directly beside the river. Unobstructed panoramic river views, 8 min walk to Metro Line 6/9, close to IFS, with direct host police registration guarantee.
Connect Directly with Host David Sterling
Direct Local HostMoving or staying in Chongqing? Scan the QR codes below to chat directly on WhatsApp or WeChat. We provide bilingual housing assistance, verified landlord deeds, and 100% legal foreigner police registration (境外人员住宿登记).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers directly from local host Yuyi and the ChinaStayFinder housing desk.
Q:What happens if I miss the 24-hour deadline?
A friendly warning is typical for minor delays, but PSB regulations allow fines up to 2,000 RMB. Always register within 24 hours or request your ChinaStayFinder host to assist on Day 1.
Q:Does ChinaStayFinder issue the registration certificate?
The certificate is issued officially by the Chinese Public Security Bureau. ChinaStayFinder provides pre-screened landlords who guarantee all required paperwork and instructions are ready upon your arrival.