Issued to foreign nationals joining a spouse or immediate family member who holds a valid Chinese residence permit or is a Chinese citizen. Common for retirees returning to live near adult children or a spouse remaining in China.
Validity: 1–3 years, renewable
Best for
- ✓ Spouse or parent joining a Chinese national
- ✓ Retirees relocating near adult children
- ✓ Foreign nationals with a close-family sponsor in China
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave China while my application is being processed?
No. Your passport is retained by the PSB during processing. You may travel within mainland China, but you cannot exit and re-enter until your permit is issued and your passport is returned to you.
How long does processing take?
A minimum of 14 business days; 4–6 weeks is common depending on the city and the time of year. Plan any international travel around this window — your passport will be with the PSB for the duration.