China Opens Online Accommodation Registration Portal for Foreigners: 24-Hour Rule Now Digital
Updated: 2 hours ago
BEIJING, September 21, 2026 — China has launched a nationwide online portal allowing foreign nationals staying in private residences, homestays, and other non-hotel accommodations to complete their legally required registration digitally within 24 hours of arrival.
The National Immigration Administration (NIA) confirmed the nationwide rollout effective September 21, 2026, following a pilot programme in seven provincial-level regions launched in March 2026. Online registration now carries the same legal effect as registering in person at a local public security bureau.
Why This Matters
Under Article 39 of China's Exit and Entry Administration Law, foreigners staying in hotels are registered by the hotel. Those staying in private homes, homestays, rural villas, short-term rentals, inns, or roadside lodgings must register within 24 hours of moving in — either themselves or through their host.
Previously, this required a trip to a local police station. The new system eliminates that step for most travellers.
Aspect | Details |
Effective Date | September 21, 2026 (nationwide) |
Registration Deadline | Within 24 hours of arrival |
Legal Effect | Same as in-person registration |
Offline Channel | Still available at police stations |
Applies To | Foreigners in non-hotel accommodations |
How to Register Online
Registration is available through four official channels:
Channel | Access |
NIA Government Service Website | |
"NIA 12367" App | Android, iOS, HarmonyOS app stores |
WeChat Mini Program | Search "移民局12367" |
Alipay Mini Program | Search "移民局12367" |
After identity verification, users follow prompts in the Accommodation Registration module under Foreigner Service. Completed registrations can be viewed via Registration Record Inquiry.
Who Can Register
Either the foreigner or their host may complete the registration. However:
First-time registration should generally be completed with host assistance for accuracy
Independent registration is permitted if the foreigner has previously registered the same residence through the NIA platform, or is staying in a self-owned residence
When Re-Registration Is Not Required
Situation | Condition |
Self-Owned Residence | Foreigner returns to their own property after travel |
Habitual Residence | Permit holder returns to the same residence during the permit's validity |
Definitions: Self-owned residence means property owned by the foreigner or spouse in China. Habitual residence means a home where the foreigner resides or plans to reside for more than 180 days.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violation | Consequence |
Foreigner or host fails to register | Warning; may also face a fine |
Fine for individuals | Up to CNY 2,000 |
Hotel fails to submit information | Warning; serious cases: CNY 1,000–5,000 fine |
Hotels Unaffected
Hotels continue to register foreign guests under existing procedures. The online portal is specifically for non-hotel accommodations.
Quick Reference Summary
Aspect | Details |
System | Online Accommodation Registration |
Effective | September 21, 2026 |
Window | Within 24 hours of arrival |
Channels | Website, App, WeChat, Alipay |
Who Registers | Foreigner or host |
First-Time Rule | Host assistance generally required |
Exemptions | Self-owned / habitual residence after travel |
Penalty | Warning and/or fine up to CNY 2,000 |
Offline Option | Still available |
Read Also
Official Resources
Resource | Link |
NIA Official Announcement (English) | |
NIA Government Service Platform | |
Policy Interpretation (English) |
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