Register where you live within 24 hours
Every foreigner must register their address with the local police within 24 hours of arriving. Universities and hotels usually do it for you; if you rent off campus or move, you must register yourself.
Study guide
Laws and rules to know
Most trouble students get into in China comes from not knowing a rule, not from breaking one on purpose. These are the ones that matter.
BeijingThe rules every international student must know
These are not formalities. Missing one can mean a fine, a cancelled residence permit or being asked to leave the country.
Apply for your residence permit within 30 days
An X1 study visa is only for entering. Within 30 days of arrival you must apply for a residence permit, normally with your university's help. Staying past your permit's expiry is overstaying.
Carry your passport or residence permit
Police can ask for identification, and hotels, trains, flights, banks and phone shops all require your passport.
Do not work without permission
A study residence permit does not allow work. Part-time work or internships need approval from your university and the immigration authority, noted on your permit. Unauthorised work can lead to fines, detention and deportation.
Zero tolerance for drugs
Drug offences are punished very severely, including detention and deportation, and a positive drug test in China can be enough. There is no "small amount" exception.
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Requirements vary between universities, provinces, and Chinese embassies, and they change from year to year. Treat this as a starting point and confirm the details against your own admission letter and the embassy you will apply through.