Designed for shorter visits to see family — typically under 180 days. Less paperwork than a full residence permit, but more limited. Commonly used by retirees who spend part of the year in China and part abroad.
Best for
- ✓ Retirees splitting time between China and home country
- ✓ Extended family visits under 180 days per year
- ✓ Those who do not intend to work in China
Frequently Asked Questions
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?
Generally, yes. The permanent residence rules count years of residence in China rather than a particular permit category, so what matters is whether your years fit a route. The employment route asks for at least three years of cumulative residence within four consecutive years in a qualifying position, and the family and over-60 routes ask for five consecutive years at no less than nine months a year. A 30-day stay permit is not a residence permit and does not build that record. See the "Aiming for permanent residence?" section on this page for the full pathway.