Welcome to Shanghai!
Whether you’re here to study, work, or just explore, there’s one important thing you must do within 24 hours of arrival — register your place of residence with the local police (unless you’re staying in a hotel, which does it for you automatically).
Why does it matter?
It’s required by law.
It’s needed for your Residence Permit application later.
Skipping it may lead to fines.
Where can you register?
You have three convenient options:
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Police service windows at local substations or community service centers
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Overseas Personnel Service Stations or Immigration Integration Service Stations
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Online self-registration via the Self-help Declaration System for Overseas Personnel’s Accommodation Registration
What to prepare before registering?
1. A Chinese SIM card
2. A valid email address
3. Passport photos: one clear scan of your info page, and one photo of you holding your open passport
4. Your exact residential address in Shanghai
How to register online in 6 steps
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Scan the QR code for the Self-help Declaration System.
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Choose a language → create an account.
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Log in and upload passport info (the system reads it automatically, but double-check carefully).
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Confirm details → click “Agree” → submit.
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Wait for approval by the police online.
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If approved, you’ll receive a download link via email/phone for the “Registration Form of Residence for Visitors From Overseas” (Temporary Residence Certificate). Print and keep this document!
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If rejected: Review your information and try again. If it still fails, visit your nearest police station to register on-site.
Every time you move to a new address, you must repeat this registration within 24 hours. Staying compliant will make your stay smooth and stress-free!
Remember, police registration is just one of the many procedures you’ll need to handle in China.
Being able to communicate in Mandarin not only speeds things up but also helps you avoid misunderstandings.
If you’d like to understand these processes in Chinese and feel more confident in Shanghai, our Mandarin courses are here to help!
If you’re interested, we’d love to welcome you.
