Foreigners who are living and working in China, because of not familiar with local laws and regulations, they often make mistakes inadvertently but they don’t know. In view of this, the Chinese police issued the following friendly reminders. 

Let’s take a look at it!

1

A foreigner is obligated to report to the local police concerning his or her temporary residence within 24 hours of their arrival in an urban area. The length of time is 72 hours in rural areas. 

The same requirement also applies to those who are living in a rented or purchased apartment. Failure to register within the proper time to can result in a warning from the police and a fine not exceeding 2,000 yuan.

   The 1st Thing You Need To Do In China

2

In case of any change to the information associated with foreigner’s work permit — for example a change in the informations as below, please report these changes to the local police within ten days. 

 

• Name, 

• Occupation, 

• Identity, 

• Passport number, 

• Work unit,

• Address 

Failure to do so can result in a warning from the police and a fine not exceeding 2,000 yuan.

3

Do remember your visa expiration date in your passport. Any overstay is regarded as an illegal presence, and will face warnings from the police. In serious instances, each day of overstay will result in: 

• A fine of 500 yuan per day, totaling no more than 10,000 yuan, 

• Or detainment between 5 and 15 days.

4

A foreigner in China must always abide by Chinese law. Those who violate the law will be asked to leave the country earlier than the expiration date of their visa, or be disqualified from staying in China.

5

A foreigner working in China should have a work permit or work certification. Any work unit or private sector employer must not employ a foreigner without a proper work permit or certification. 

 

Any of the following cases is considered illegal employment:

1. Working in China without a legal work permit or certification.

2. Working in China beyond the expiration date of a legal work permit or certification.

3. Foreign students working in China beyond the scope of their work-study program in terms of position and time limitations.

Those found to be working illegally will be fined between 5,000 and 20,000 yuan, and for serious instances detention of 5 to 15 days in addition to the fine.

6

Prostitution, whoring, gambling, taking drugs and drug trafficking are illegal in China. Offenders will be asked to report to the relevant police station and participate in an investigation.

7

Gang-fighting, instigating quarrels, sexual harassment and assault, as well as damaging of public or private facilities are all illegal offenses punishable based on the severity of the act.

8

Article Number 15 of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Administrative Penalties for Public Security states than an intoxicated person who violates the regulations concerning public security shall be penalized. An intoxicated person who poses a danger to himself/herself, or to others, will be restrained until they return to sobriety.

9

Article Number 58 of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Administrative Penalties for Public Security regulates excessive noise and its affects on the normal lives of others. Offenders can face police warnings or fines between 200 and 500 yuan.

10

When leaving their place of residence, everyone should make sure their doors and windows are closed and utilities such as water, electricity, and gas are turned off to avoid any accidents.

11

Keep a close eye on your passport, ID card, student card, or driver’s license when visiting supermarkets, going shopping or when in any crowded place. Always take care with your personal belongings.

12

Always remember these important telephone numbers in case of emergency:

• Police: 110

• Fire department: 119

• Medical aid: 120

• Traffic accidents: 122

• Phone number directory: 114

Useful Numbers You Must Know! Take A Note!