What paperwork do you need after moving to China in 2026?

Register your temporary address within 24 hours if you are not in a hotel that files for you: Register address. For sponsored work, finish the Foreigner's Work Permit with your employer, then convert to a work-type residence permit at Exit-Entry Administration within 30 days of entry: Get a work permit and Apply for a residence permit. Study (X) and family (Q/S) routes still need matching residence filings when you stay long term. Diary renewals early: Renew a residence permit.

Many cities now push “one-stop” work and social-security steps, yet you still collect the residence sticker in person unless your local window says otherwise. Keep the temporary residence registration form for every later desk.

Employer social insurance enrolment, including medical insurance, usually starts through payroll within local deadlines after the work permit path: Enrol public health / social insurance, Get a social security number or card, and Choose health insurance. Open a mainland bank account, then bind WeChat Pay and Alipay: Open a bank account, Set up WeChat Pay, and Get a mobile phone.

Register on the State Taxation Administration Individual Income Tax app when your employer or tax hall requires it: Get a tax number. Exchange or convert a driving licence only if you will drive: Convert a driving licence. Pets follow Customs rules, not Exit-Entry favours: Bring pets. Families adding municipal school seats have a separate enrolment file: Enrol in public school.