Company形態の選択 | 国家移民管理局 Official Information

Company-Related Residence Permits in China: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Overview

A company-related residence permit is a critical legal document issued by Chinese immigration authorities that allows foreign employees to reside in China for work purposes. It is typically linked to a specific employer and job position, serving as the primary long-term stay document for expatriates working in Chinese companies, joint ventures, or foreign-invested enterprises. This permit is distinct from a work visa (Z Visa), which is used for entry, and is essential for lawful residence, daily life activities (such as opening bank accounts), and exit/re-entry during its validity period. Compliance with the regulations governing this permit is fundamental for both the employing company and the foreign employee.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This guide applies to:

Foreign professionals hired by legally registered companies, enterprises, or representative offices in China.
Foreign employees transferred to a branch, subsidiary, or headquarters of a multinational company within China.
Foreign investors or legal representatives of foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) who will be managing the company in China.
Scenarios: When a foreign national has entered China with a Z Visa (work visa) and needs to convert it to a residence permit for long-term stay; when renewing an existing residence permit due to continued employment; or when changing a residence permit due to a change of employer within China.

3. Core Conclusions

The application must be sponsored by a legally operating company in China, which is responsible for initiating and supporting the process.
The permit's duration is generally tied to the employment contract, the company's business license validity, and the applicant's passport validity.
Applicants must enter China with a valid Z Visa before applying for the residence permit (with specific exceptions for certain high-level talents or under certain policies).
Strict compliance with application timelines and documentation is required to avoid penalties or unlawful status.
The specific requirements, processing times, and supporting documents can vary slightly between cities and provinces in China.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation (by Company and Employee)

Company's Role: The employing company must ensure its business license is valid and complete necessary pre-registrations or filings with local human resources and social security bureaus, as well as the tax bureau. It must prepare an official invitation letter and supporting company documents.
Employee's Role: The foreign employee must obtain a Z Visa from a Chinese embassy/consulate abroad, enter China, and complete a temporary residence registration with the local police station within 24 hours of arrival. A health examination at a designated Chinese hospital is also required.
Document Assembly: Gather all required documents, which typically include:
- Valid passport and original Z Visa.
- Temporary Residence Registration Form.
- Health Examination Report.
- Company's Business License副本 (copy).
- Official Employment License or Work Permit notification letter.
- Application Form for Visa/Residence Permit (filled and stamped by the company).
- Recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Employment contract.

Step 2: Application & Submission

The company's appointed staff or the applicant submits the complete application dossier in person to the Exit-Entry Administration of the local Public Security Bureau (PSB).
Some major cities may allow online pre-filing or appointment booking through their official immigration service websites or apps.
Application fees must be paid as required. The exact fee varies by permit duration and should be verified with the local authority.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

The immigration authorities will review the application materials. This may involve verification with other government departments.
If approved, the applicant will be notified to collect the passport with the new residence permit affixed inside.
The standard processing time is approximately 7 to 15 working days, but expedited service may be available for an additional fee in some cases.
Upon receipt, carefully check all details on the permit (name, passport number, employer, validity period) for accuracy.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I start working as soon as I enter China with a Z Visa? A: No. The Z Visa is only for entry. You must obtain the work-related residence permit before legally commencing employment. Working while only holding a Z Visa is a violation.

Q2: What happens if I change jobs while my residence permit is still valid? A: You must first cancel your current residence permit linked to the old employer. Your new employer must apply for a new work permit and residence permit for you. You cannot legally work for the new company under the old permit.

Q3: Can my family come with me? A: Yes. Once you obtain a work-related residence permit valid for at least one year, your spouse and minor children may apply for S1/S2 visas or family reunion residence permits. They will need to provide proof of relationship and your supporting documents.

Q4: How long can the residence permit be issued for? A: It can be issued for a minimum of 90 days up to a maximum of 5 years, depending on the duration of your employment contract, your work permit category, and the company's license validity.

Q5: What should I do if my passport is lost with the residence permit inside? A: Immediately report the loss to the local police station and obtain a loss report. Then, apply for a new passport at your embassy/consulate. Finally, take the new passport, police report, and other required documents to the Exit-Entry Administration to apply for a replacement residence permit.

Q6: Do I need to apply in the city where my company is registered? A: Generally, yes. The application is submitted to the immigration authorities in the city where the company's legal registration address is located and where you will be residing.

6. Risks & Compliance

Overstaying is Illegal: Allowing your residence permit to expire without renewal or change of status is a serious offense, leading to fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.
Work Restrictions: The residence permit is tied to your specific employer and job. Engaging in paid work for any other organization is illegal.
Address Registration: Any change in your residential address must be reported to the local police station for registration update within 24 hours.
Document Validity: Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages and validity (usually more than 6 months beyond the intended residence period).
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Policies and requirements are subject to change by Chinese authorities. Always consult the official immigration bureau for the most current and location-specific guidance before proceeding.

7. References & Sources

National Immigration Administration (NIA): https://www.nia.gov.cn/ - The primary national authority.
State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA) / Ministry of Science and Technology: https://fuwu.most.gov.cn/ - For work permit-related policies.
Local Exit-Entry Administration Bureaus: e.g., Beijing: https://gaj.beijing.gov.cn/crj/; Shanghai: https://gaj.sh.gov.cn/crj/. Always search for the official website of the PSB in your specific city.
Regulations on the Administration of Entry and Exit of Foreigners: The foundational national regulation.

8. Related Topics

Z Visa (Work Visa) Application: The prerequisite visa for entry to apply for this residence permit.
Foreigner's Work Permit: The mandatory work authorization process managed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS) and SAFEA.
Temporary Residence Registration: The mandatory registration required within 24 hours of arriving at any accommodation in China.
Residence Permit for Family Reunion (S1): For family members of work permit holders.
Permanent Residence (Green Card) in China: For those who may qualify after long-term residence and contribution.