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Life in China
Housing registration, insurance, health checks and campus rules that apply to international students once they arrive.
Short answers
Do I have to register my address with the police?
If you stay anywhere other than a hotel, you or your host must register with the public security organ within 24 hours of arrival. The National Immigration Administration now offers this online, with the same legal effect as registering in person.
Law, Article 39Exit and Entry Administration Law of the PRC (English text, National Immigration Administration)National Immigration Administration — policy interpretation, online accommodation registration (21 September 2026)
Can I live off campus?
The rules provide for it: a student who lives outside the school dormitory must promptly register with the public security office where they live. Whether your university allows off-campus housing is in its own rules.
Order No. 42, Article 24Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)
What happens if I do not register where I live?
The law provides for a warning, and a fine of up to RMB 2,000 may also be imposed.
Law, Article 76Exit and Entry Administration Law of the PRC (English text, National Immigration Administration)
Is there a medical check when I arrive?
Yes. On enrolment, international students confirm their Foreigner Physical Examination Record with the Chinese health quarantine department, or take the examination.
Order No. 42, Article 39Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)
Can I practise my religion on campus?
Universities must respect students' customs and religious beliefs, but they do not provide venues for religious activities, and religious gatherings and preaching are not allowed on campus.
Order No. 42, Article 29Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)
Who helps international students at a Chinese university?
Each university must name an office responsible for international students and must appoint counsellors for them, who handle information, advice and student activities.
Order No. 42, Articles 22 and 25Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)
Official sources
- Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students (Order No. 42, Chinese)www.moe.gov.cn
- National Immigration Administration — online accommodation registration, policy interpretationen.nia.gov.cn
- National Immigration Administration — Exit and Entry Administration Law (English)en.nia.gov.cn