What is the difference between a stay permit and a residence permit?
A stay permit is a short-term authorization — typically 30 days, non-extendable — granted in specific transitional circumstances such as changing jobs or waiting for a new visa. A residence permit is the standard multi-year credential for anyone living in China long-term. If you plan to remain beyond your entry visa window, you need a residence permit.
How long do I have to apply after arriving in China?
30 days from the date you enter on your visa. This window is fixed and cannot be extended. Do not treat it as free time — health checks, document preparation, and PSB appointment wait times all eat into it. Aim to submit before Day 20 where possible.
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.
Can I work on a stay permit?
No. A stay permit does not confer any right to work. If you are employed in China, you need a residence permit issued on the basis of a Z (work) visa. Working on a stay permit is a violation.
How do I renew my residence permit?
The renewal process mirrors the original application. Begin at least 30 days before your permit expires. If your address, employment, or marital status has changed, you will need to update your registration and may need to reapply rather than simply renew.
What happens if I overstay my permit?
Fines start at ¥500 per day for overstays of 1–10 days (capped at ¥5,000). Overstays of 11–30 days carry fines of ¥500–¥2,000 and possible administrative detention. Beyond 30 days: fines up to ¥10,000, deportation, and a 1–5 year entry ban. Beyond one year: a 5–10 year ban and possible criminal referral. Penalties compound daily and must be paid in full before any new permit can be issued.
Does my residence permit count toward permanent residence eligibility?
It depends on the permit category. Work and family-category residence permit years count fully toward the 5-year continuous residence requirement for PR. Short Stay permits (30 days) and Private Affairs permits do not. See the "Aiming for permanent residence?" section on this page for the full pathway.
What can I do with a residence permit that I cannot do on a visa?
A residence permit allows you to open a Chinese bank account, access the public healthcare system, rent an apartment or purchase property, register a vehicle, obtain a driver's license, enroll children in local schools, apply for a marriage license, and receive overseas income into a Chinese bank account.
What is the temporary residence registration requirement?
Separate from the permit itself, every foreign national must register their address with local police. Hotels do this automatically. If you stay in private accommodation — rented or with family — you must register in person at the local police station within 24 hours (urban areas) or 72 hours (rural areas). This applies every time you change address, not only on initial arrival.
Do I need a health examination?
Yes, for permits with a duration exceeding 180 days. The examination must be conducted at an NIA-authorized health facility. Fast for 12 hours beforehand. Results typically take 3–5 business days — book early, as this step alone can consume a significant portion of your 30-day application window.
I'm retiring in China. Which permit is right for me?
It depends on how much of the year you plan to spend in China. If you intend to settle long-term, a Retirement Residence Permit requires proof of pension income and is assessed city by city. If you plan to split your time between China and abroad — under 180 days per year in China — a Private Affairs Permit is a simpler, lower-threshold option. We assess your specific situation.