What Changed and Who It Affects
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) has expanded online registration for foreigners staying outside hotels to the whole country. The change took effect on September 21, 2026, and applies to foreign nationals who live or stay in any accommodation other than a hotel, as well as to the person hosting them.
Hotels remain responsible for registering foreign guests and reporting that information to the local public security authority. If you stay in a hotel, you do not need to do anything extra. The new online option is for everyone else: renters, people staying with friends or family, and anyone in private housing.
The announcement was issued as NIA Public Notice No. 7 of 2026, based on Article 39 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China. That article sets out the underlying duty to register accommodation, and the notice changes only how that duty can be fulfilled.
The 24-Hour Rule Still Applies
The legal requirement has not changed. Under Article 39 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law, foreigners staying outside hotels must register with the local public security authority within 24 hours of check-in. The registration can be done by the foreigner or by the host.
The difference is how you register. You can now use the NIA’s online service website, the “12367” mobile app, or the “12367” WeChat or Alipay mini-program. The in-person option at the local public security office is still available. The NIA states that online and in-person registration have the same legal effect.
The table below summarizes the two channels.
| Item | Online registration | In-person registration |
|---|---|---|
| Where | NIA service website, “12367” app, WeChat or Alipay mini-program | Local public security authority |
| Who can register | The foreigner or the host | The foreigner or the host |
| Deadline | Within 24 hours of check-in | Within 24 hours of check-in |
| Legal effect | Same as in-person | Same as online |
| Applies to hotel stays | No | No (hotel registers guests) |
What HR Teams Should Know
For HR and relocation teams, the practical impact is simpler logistics for assignees in serviced apartments, company-leased housing, or homestays. Instead of arranging a trip to a police station within 24 hours of arrival, the employee or the host can register online. That can reduce friction for late arrivals and weekend check-ins.
However, the announcement leaves some details open. It does not list which documents must be uploaded or whether supporting files are required. It also does not define who counts as a “host” or explain what happens if the 24-hour window is missed. Companies should keep a record of each registration and encourage employees to complete it as soon as possible after check-in. For broader onboarding, see our China arrival guide and visa overview.
If an employee is moving to China for work, the accommodation registration is separate from the work permit process. Our China work permit page covers the main steps for employers. Employees who later change address should also check whether their residence permit details need updating.
If you need the current document list checked, OTGEO can confirm it.