A Comprehensive Guide to the Entire Process of Accommodation Registration for Foreigners in China
All foreigners traveling to China (including those on visa-free or tourist visas) are required to register their accommodation when staying in hotels, homestays, or at friends' and relatives' homes.
Hotels handle the registration for guests; for non-hotel accommodations, you must complete it yourself within 24 hours of check-in.
Situation 1: Staying in a Hotel
Step 1: Present your original passport to the hotel front desk upon check-in.
Step 2: The front desk will automatically complete the registration for you—no action is required from you.
Step 3: Once registration is finished, you can proceed directly to check-in.
Situation 2: Staying in a Homestay, at Friends’ or Relatives’ Homes, or in Rented Accommodation
Step 1: Open the Immigration Bureau’s 12367 app, WeChat, or Alipay mini-program.
Step 2: Locate “Accommodation Registration” and select “Accommodation Other Than Hotels.”
Step 3: Upload the photo page of your passport and accurately enter the full address, including the house number.
Step 4: Fill in the guest information and submit; the registration takes effect immediately. (Alternative: Bring your passport and proof of accommodation address to the local police station to fill out the form.)
1. The 24-hour deadline is strict; failure to register on time may result in a warning or a fine of up to 2,000 yuan.
2. Even visitors entering visa-free must register—there are no exceptions.
3. If you change hotels or addresses, you must re-register.
4. Seven provinces, including Hebei and Zhejiang, have already launched online registration, with nationwide rollout gradually expanding.
5. Ensure that all information matches your passport and actual accommodation address; otherwise, registration will fail.