New in Shanghai? Learn how to register with the police online or in person with Here Real Estate Agency. We guide foreigners and expats step-by-step through the the process with key documents, deadlines, and tips to avoid fines.

If you're a foreigner living or staying in Shanghai, one of the first legal requirements you must complete is the Temporary Residence Registration (临时住宿登记) within 24 hours. You must do this every time you arrive in China or change your address within the country.

Here’s everything you need to know to stay compliant and stress-free.

🏨 Do I Need to Register If I Stay in a Hotel?

No registration is needed if you’re staying in a hotel. The hotel will automatically report your stay to the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) upon check-in.

However, if you move from a hotel to an apartment, or stay with a friend or Airbnb, you must register your new address within 24 hours.

🔍 Two Ways to Register in Shanghai

You can register your address through one of the following methods:

Option 1: Online Registration (Most Convenient)
Option 2: In-Person Registration at the Local Police Station (派出所)

Both methods are free. Let’s explore each in detail.

🌐 Option 1: How to Register Online in Shanghai

If you’re staying at a private address in Shanghai (apartment, Airbnb, with a friend), you can use the city’s official police registration portal.

shanghai Online registration

🔗 Visit the Shanghai Online Registration System

🧾 What You’ll Need:

Full address of your current residence
Arrival date & intended departure date (when you plan to leave China)
Chinese mobile phone number
Passport information (clear image of your ID page)
Selfie holding your passport (face and document must be visible)

🖥️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

Create an account on the website using your email address.
Log in and select the “Registration” option.
Fill in your details, including address, phone number, and arrival/departure dates.
Upload your documents:

Clear photo of your passport’s ID page
Selfie holding your passport next to your face

Submit your application and wait for confirmation.

⏱️ Processing Time:

Usually approved within 5–10 minutes
In some cases, it may take 1–3 business days

📧 An email will notify you once accepted (check your spam folder!)

📥 How to Download Your Registration Form:

Log back into the website.
Go to the "History" section.
Look for the registration marked “Pass” with a QR code.
Download your Temporary Residence Registration Form (临时住宿登记表). You can also send it by email or share the link.

🛡️ Important: Keep both a printed and digital copy, you may need it when extending your visa or visiting a government office.

🏢 Option 2: How to Register In Person at the Police Station

If you're unable to register online, you must visit your local police station (派出所) in the district where you live.

🧭 How to Find the Nearest Station:

Ask your landlord or roommate for the name of the assigned 派出所
Have them write it in Chinese or pin it on your map app
Use Didi or public transport to get there

📑 Documents You Need:

Original passport and valid visa/residence permit
Two printed copies of your passport ID + visa pages
Your rental agreement (signed by the landlord)
If staying with someone: their Chinese ID or household registration book (户口簿)

🗣️ What to Say at the Station:

Go to the front desk and say: “登记” (Dēng jì) which means “register.” A staff member will direct you to the correct window.

The process typically takes 10–15 minutes. Once approved, you will receive your printed Temporary Residence Registration Form.

💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Registration

📸 Take passport-style photos and document scans before you travel
🗂 Keep multiple copies (digital + paper) of your registration form
📆 Set calendar reminders to re-register after each move or re-entry
🔁 Register again every time you re-enter China—even if you're returning to the same address
🧭 Bookmark the online registration site for easy access

🧳 Need Help Navigating Your First Days in China?

At HERE Real Estate Agency, we do more than help you find the perfect apartment in Shanghai. Our bilingual team guides you through all essential expat procedures.

Whether you're a student, professional, or family, we ensure your move to China is smooth, legal, and stress-free.

📩 Need assistance registering? Contact us, we’re happy to help.

GET STARTED

En Chine, tous les étrangers doivent s’enregistrer auprès du poste de police local dans les 24 heures suivant leur arrivée ou tout changement de logement. Cette obligation s’applique aussi bien aux étudiants, aux professionnels qu’aux touristes de courte et longue durée. À Shanghai, l’enregistrement peut se faire en ligne ou en personne selon votre cas. Ne pas respecter cette formalité peut entraîner des amendes allant jusqu’à 2 000 RMB et compliquer vos démarches administratives (visa, banque, logement).

Police Registration in Shanghai