Source: OT-Team(G), 中国新闻网
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) of China has responded to suggestions from foreign netizens advocating for the digitalization and simplification of accommodation registration and entry card submission processes for foreigners in China.
Calls for Simplified Digital Services
A netizen from Austria, identified as As, proposed simplifying the temporary residence registration required within 24 hours of arrival for foreigners in China. He noted that the current WeChat mini-program lacks comprehensive features and does not offer sufficient English-language support. As suggested that all services—from accommodation registration to visa application—should be accessible through the NIA's official website, and that immigration, visa, customs clearance, and application procedures should be further modernized and digitalized.
Similarly, a netizen from the Netherlands, "L**o", recommended that foreigners be allowed to complete accommodation registration online, whether staying at a private residence or with friends, rather than having to visit a local police station in person.
NIA's Response
In response, the NIA issued the following clarifications and updates:
1.Service Platform Accessibility:
The NIA's online service platform is accessible via four channels: the web portal, a mobile app, and WeChat and Alipay mini-programs. The system supports both Chinese and English, with a toggle option on the homepage. Additionally, a direct link to the online service platform has been added to the homepage of the English version of the NIA's official website, improving accessibility for international users.
2.Accommodation Registration Regulations and Improvements:
According to Article 39 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China, hotels must register foreign guests' accommodation and submit this information to local public security authorities. Foreigners staying at non-hotel residences are required to register within 24 hours of arrival at the local police station, either by themselves or by their host.
To enhance convenience for foreigners traveling, working, studying, or living in China, the NIA has directed local exit-entry departments to simplify accommodation registration requirements, expand methods for information submission, and offer translation support. In addition to police stations, foreigners can now register at community police service centers or foreigner service stations. Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hainan, and Chongqing have already launched online self-service platforms for foreign nationals to register their accommodation electronically. Furthermore, a nationwide online accommodation registration platform is currently under development to streamline the process and improve convenience for foreigners living in China.
The NIA expressed gratitude for the public's interest in immigration services and encouraged anyone with questions to contact the 12367 service hotline or email [email protected].
Suggestion on Digital Entry Card Submission
In a further suggestion, "L**o" also called for the digitalization of the foreign entry card submission process. He proposed that foreign travelers should be able to complete and submit the card online prior to arrival. This would not only reduce paper usage but also lower submission costs and improve customs clearance efficiency.
The NIA responded by stating that it has been actively working to facilitate international travel and improve the experience of foreigners visiting China. Recent initiatives include the 240-hour visa-free transit policy and the implementation of 24-hour direct transit procedures at nine major airports, including Beijing.
Looking ahead, the NIA affirmed that it will carefully study the feasibility of implementing an online entry card system for foreign nationals. The administration plans to leverage technological advancements to further improve efficiency at border checkpoints and enhance service quality.
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