Preparation for Settling in Sanya

Chapter 1: Employment Procedures

According to the "Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China" and "Regulations of the People’s Republic of China on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners," foreigners intending to work in China must obtain the required work permits and residence documents. For readers’ reference, this chapter provides detailed information covering the procedures of applying for work permits, visas, residence permits, invitation letters, accommodation registration certificates, physical examinations, and other essential requirements.

I.Visa Types and Hainan Visa-Free Entry Policy

(I)Visa’s Categories

Entry visas, transit visas, and exit visas are three standard visa types in the world. China and most states employ entry visas and transit visas, while some countries employ all three visas listed above.

1.Visa Exemption Criteria

As stipulated in Article 22 of the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China, foreigners who meet any of the following criteria are exempt from visa requirements:

(1) Individuals covered by reciprocal visa exemption agreements signed between the Chinese government and other countries;

(2) Those holding a valid residence permit for foreigners;

(3) Travelers in transit through China en route to a third country or region, provided they possess confirmed connecting tickets for international flights, ships, or trains. Such individuals are exempt when their stay within China does not exceed 24 hours and they remain within the port area, or when they stay in specific areas approved by the State Council for a specified period;

(4) Other circumstances where visa exemption is specified by the State Council. (For detailed regulations regarding visa exemptions, kindly scan the QR code below. This will direct you to the article titled "Do I Need A Visa?" on the official website of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, where you can access comprehensive information on the subject.)

(II)Visa’s Categories

Chinese visas fall into the types of diplomatic visas, courtesy visas, public service visas and ordinary visas. An ordinary visa is officially issued by a state's relevant authority to individuals who lawfully enter or transit the country for personal affairs. This type of visa is primarily granted to those holding ordinary (private) passports or other valid international travel documents, serving as the standard authorization for personal-purpose international travel. After that, ordinary visas can be further classified as the following categories:

1.C visa: Issued to foreign crew members of means of international transportation, including aircraft, trains and ships, or motor vehicle drivers engaged in cross-border transport activities, or to the accompanying family members of the crew members of the above-mentioned ships.

2.D visa: Issued to those who intend to reside in China permanently.

3.F visa: Issued to those who intend to go to China for exchanges, visits, study tours and other activities.

4.G visa: Issued to those who intend to transit through China.

5.J1 visa: Issued to resident foreign journalists of foreign news organizations stationed in China. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days.

6.J2 visa: Issued to foreign journalists who intend to go to China for short-term news coverage. The intended duration of stay in China is no more than 180 days.

7.L visa: Issued to those who intend to go to China as a tourist.

8.M visas: Issued to those who intend to go to China for commercial and trade activities.

“Family members” refers to spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandsons, granddaughters and parents-in-law.

9.Q1 visa: Issued to those who are family members of Chinese citizens or of foreigners with Chinese permanent residence and intend to go to China for family reunion, or to those who intend to go to China for the purpose of foster care. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days.

10.Q2 visa: Issued to those who intend to visit their relatives who are Chinese citizens residing in China or foreigners with permanent residence in China. The intended duration of stay in China is no more than 180 days.

11.R visa: Issued to those who are high-level talents or whose skills are urgently needed in China.

12.S1 visa: Issued to those who intend to go to China to visit the foreigners working or studying in China to whom they are spouses, parents, sons or daughters under the age of 18 or parents-in-law, or to those who intend to go to China for other private affairs. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days.

13.S2 visa: Issued to those who intend to visit their family members who are foreigners working or studying in China, or to those who intend to go to China for other private matters. The intended duration of stay in China is no more than 180 days.

14.X1 visa: Issued to those who intend to study in China for a period of more than 180 days.

15.X2 visa: Issued to those who intend to study in China for a period of no more than 180 days.

16.Z visa: Issued to those who intend to work in China.

(III)Validity Period, Number of Entries and Duration of Each Stay of Chinese Visa

1.The validity period of a visa (“Enter Before”) refers to the valid time length of the visa itself. A visa is valid for the visa holder to enter the Chinese border from the date the visa is issued to the expiry date (as of Beijing Time). If a visa has unused entries, the holder can still use it before the expiry date (inclusive).

2.The term “Entries” of a visa refers to the number of times the visa holder is permitted to enter the Chinese border within the validity period of the visa. A visa becomes invalid if all the entries are used up or if the visa has expired even though there are entries unused. In this case, you will have to submit a new visa application if you wish to visit China. Holders of an invalid visa will be refused entry to China at the border.

3.The “Duration of Each Stay” refers to the maximum number of days a visa holder is permitted to stay in China after each entry, namely, the maximum number of days a visa holder can stay in China from the day of entry.

Foreign citizens who stay in China longer than permitted by the visa without applying for an extension of stay will be considered as violating the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Control of the Entry and Exit of Aliens and Rules Governing the Implementation of the Law of the PRC on the Entry and Exit of Aliens, and as a result will face prosecution of fines or other penalties. Therefore, the visa holder must apply for an extension of stay at local public security authorities above county level (detailed requirements are available on the websites of local public security authorities) should it be foreseeable that an overstay would happen. (However, approval of the application cannot be guaranteed.) Chinese embassies and consulates in foreign countries do not accept applications for visa extension.

Holder of D visa, J1 visa, Q1 visa, S1 visa, X1 visa, Z visa must register with local public security authorities for residential formalities within 30 days of entry. Resident members of diplomatic and consular missions must complete residential formalities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or local foreign affairs departments within 30 days of entry.

(IV)China’s Visa Authorities

1. Chinese diplomatic missions, consular posts, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Macao Special Administrative Region, and other resident organizations abroad authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are responsible for handling visa applications by foreign citizens for entry into and transit through Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.

2.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the local foreign affairs offices authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are responsible for issuance, change and extension of diplomatic and service visas and for issuance of residence permit to holders of diplomatic and service visas.

3.The Ministry of Public Security and the local public security authorities authorized by the Ministry of Public Security are responsible for inspection on entry and exit of foreigners, issuance of visas at the port of entry, extension and change of ordinary visas, and issuance of residence permit to holders of ordinary visas, who are already in China.

4.The Immigration Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is responsible for matters relating to foreigners’ entry into and exit from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Its Website address: http://www.immd.gov.hk

5.Macao Public Security Police Force Immigration Service. Unless visa exempted according to bilateral agreements, a foreigner may apply for a visa to enter Macao upon arrival at the Port of Entry. Website address of the Macao public security police force: http://www.fsm.gov.mo/psp/cht/main.html

(V)Local Authorities and Departments Providing Visa Services

Foreign nationals living or staying in Hainan Province can submit different visa applications at the public security exit-entry administration authorities in Haikou and Sanya. These local authorities are responsible for handling visa applications and serving as a convenient service point for residents. In cases of urgency, such as attending important meetings, signing contracts, seeking immediate medical treatment, or visiting seriously ill relatives, foreign nationals can request expedited visa processing. The public security exit-entry administration authorities in Haikou and Sanya that can process visas are equipped to offer this express service, ensuring that urgent travel needs are met promptly.

Responsible Departments:

1.Hainan Provincial Government Service Center

Office Address: Exit-Entry  Administration  Window,  1st Floor, No. 3 Wuzhishan  South Road, Meilan District, Haikou City

Number: 0898-65312031

2.Sanya’s Government Service Center (Service Zone for Foreigners)    (The zone offers services in English, Russian and Korean）

Office Address: Cheng Yun Building, No. 352 Yingbin Road, Jiyang District, Sanya

Number: 0898- 38221960

3.Entry and Exit Administration Detachment of Sanya Public Security Bureau

Office Address: No.156 Fenghuang Road, Sanya

Number: 0898-88869150

4.Landing Visa office at Sanya Phoenix International Airport

Number: 0898-88289566

(VI)Visa-Free Entry Policy

Tourists from 59 designated countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Hainan for purposes such as tourism, business activities, trade, visiting, cultural exchanges, family reunions, medical treatment, attending exhibitions, participating in sports events, and other short-term activities (excluding long-term work or study). The maximum permitted stay is 30 days. These visitors can enter Hainan without a visa through multiple channels. They may arrange their visit via travel agencies, accept invitations, or be received by organizations (including government agencies, groups, and employers). Alternatively, individuals can self-declare their visit intentions and provide the required information upon arrival at Hainan's airports or entry ports. All activities must be conducted within the province of Hainan. Entry and exit are restricted to all open ports in Hainan, and the stay must not exceed 30 days.

For more information about Hainan's Visa-Free Entry Policies, please visit:

1.https://www.visitsanya.com/en/display.php?id=3167

2.https://www.visitsanya.com/en/display.php?id=2956

II.Consular Affairs “One-Stop” Online Service

Users seeking consular certification, invitations for foreigners to China, or APEC Business Travel Card can access these services through the Foreign Affairs Service Zone on the Haiyiban APP or the Haiyiban WeChat Mini Program.Specifically, Foreign Affairs Service Zone includes two sections: “  Service  Processing” and “Progress  Inquiry.” Each page provides detailed application guidelines to ensure a smooth process. In the "Service Processing" section, users can submit applications for APEC Business Travel Cards, invitations for foreigners to enter China, and consular certification. On the other hand, the "Progress Inquiry" section enables users to conveniently track the status of their submitted applications. For instance, when applying for consular certification, users can start by logging into the Haiyiban platform, accessing the Foreign Affairs Service Zone, selecting "Consular Certification Application," reviewing and accepting the relevant instructions, completing the application form, and checking the progress of the requested service. 

III.Working in China: Work、Residence Permits for Foreign Employees and Policy for International Graduate Entrepreneurship Residence Permits

As stipulated in the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China and the Regulations on the Administration of Employment of Foreigners in China, foreigners who wish to work in China are required to obtain both a work permit and a work - related residence permit. 

(I)Obtaining the Permits for Employees: What’s the First Step for Employers?

Employers are required to access the "Service System for Foreigners Working in China" via https://fuwu.most.gov.cn/html/fwsx/wgrlhzq/. Firstly, corporate users, as legal entities, are required to complete the registration process on this platform. After successful registration, within the system interface, employers need to select and fill out the joint immigration and entry-exit business applications. Once employers submit the application materials for employees' work permits and residence permits through the system, they will proceed to the interview stage. Depending on the specific circumstances, there are two types of interviews available: an online interview conducted by the relevant foreign affairs department, or a face-to-face interview at the exit-entry administration windows of the local public security bureau, which requires the submission of original paper materials. Finally, employers or applicants must bring the original paper materials used in the work permit and residence permit applications to the "Work and Residence Permit Acceptance Windows" to receive the permits.

(II)Requirements for Foreigners Applying for A Work Permit in China

1.Basic Requirements for Employers

(1)Entities shall be legally incorporated and have no significant history of illegal activities or unethical conduct. The employment of foreigners should be justified by specific operational needs, where suitable domestic candidates are currently unavailable, and must adhere to all relevant national regulations. Additionally, the remuneration provided to foreign employees must be equal to or higher than the local minimum wage standards.

(2)Positions subject to pre-approval by industry regulatory authorities as mandated by laws and regulations must obtain the requisite approvals.

2.Basic Requirements for Applicants (Employees)

(1)Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, with no criminal records, and have a confirmed employer within China. They should possess the necessary professional skills or knowledge suitable for their work;

(2)The  work  they  engage  in  must  align  with  China’s economic and social development needs and involve professions urgently needed domestically;

(3)Specific provisions in laws and regulations governing foreigners working in China shall apply accordingly.

(III)Classification Standards for Foreign Talents Working in China

Please scan the QR code attached below for more information about this topic.

(IV)Required Documents for Foreigners Applying for a Work Permit in China

1.Employer’s Account Registration

(1)Information Registration Form (sealed with the company’s official stamp);

(2)Proof of legal registration;

(3)Identification documents of the responsible person and the handling personnel;

(4)Industry license or approval documents (if required by industry regulatory authorities, as stipulated by laws and regulations, submission of approval documents from the industry regulatory authority is necessary).

(V)Work Permit Application Procedures for Foreigners Based Abroad and in China

For foreign applicants, the application process varies depending on their locations. Those outside China must first obtain the "Notification of Foreigner’s Work Permit in the People’s Republic of China." Following entry into China, they can then apply for the "Work Permit for Foreigners in the People’s Republic of China." In contrast, foreign applicants already in China can directly apply for the "Work Permit for Foreigners in the People’s Republic of China" without the need to first obtain the notification document.

For detailed information on applying for a Work Permit for Foreigners working in China for more than 90 days or an invitation letter for foreign experts to work in China for 90 days or less, please scan the QR code below.

For inquiries regarding the guidelines on applying for other types of foreigner work permits in China, please scan this QR code:

(VI)Required Documents for Work-Based Residence Permits

Please scan the QR code to access the complete list of required documents. Note that this list is for reference only; specific requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances.

If you have further questions, please contact:

Sanya’s Government Service Center (Service Zone for Foreigners)    (The zone offers services in English, Russian and Korean）

Office Address: Cheng Yun Building, No. 352 Yingbin Road, Jiyang District, Sanya

Number: 0898- 38221960

For your convenience, scan the QR code below to access a sample list of forms you may need when applying for visas and permits.

(VII)Policy for International Graduate Entrepreneurship Residence Permits

1.International graduates who have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher from recognized Chinese universities and engage in innovation and entrepreneurship in China upon graduation may apply for an entrepreneurial residence permit valid for 2 to 5 years, using their university diploma and entrepreneurship-related credentials as proof. Those employed in Hainan Province can apply for a work residence permit per the relevant regulations.

2.International students with a master’s degree or higher from Chinese universities, as recommended by their institutions, may apply for a two-year permit of private affairs residence in Hainan Province. During the validity period, they can apply for a work residence permit if they secure employment in the province.

3.International students graduating from renowned global universities who engage in innovation and entrepreneurship in China may apply for an entrepreneurial residence permit within two years of graduation, with a validity of up to two years, using their degree certificate as proof. During the permit’s validity period, they can apply for a work residence permit if they secure employment in Hainan Province.

4.International students enrolled at overseas higher education institutions and employed by renowned Chinese enterprises, star-rated hotels in Hainan Province, hospitals, international schools, or other approved employers may apply for a port visa or private affairs visa by submitting their employer’s invitation letter and proof of current enrollment from the overseas institution. International students participating in internships in China under government-approved agreements are eligible to apply for a work residence permit in accordance with relevant regulations.

IV.Physical Examination

According to the "Guidelines for Foreigners Applying to Enter China," foreigners are required to provide a health examination certificate prior to entry, but this certificate can only be obtained from designated institutions within China. Therefore, foreign citizens should adopt a commitment-based system for their pre-entry medical examination certificate, commit to submitting a health examination certificate issued by a designated inspection and quarantine institution in China upon arrival, and assume the associated risks. When applying for the "Foreigner’s Work Permit of the People’s Republic of China" after entering the country, foreigners must additionally submit the health examination certificate issued by a designated inspection and quarantine institution within China.

Upon arrival in China, foreign talents should contact Sanya’s Government Service Center (Service Zone for Foreigners) via 0898- 38221960 or visit the designated medical examination facility directly for consultation and to complete the health check procedures. Required materials may include: the original passport, one photocopy of the passport’s information page, and two 2-inch passport photos (no specific background color required). The examination fee is around 370 RMB per person.

For specific guidelines and additional information, please contact your medical examination facilities directly.

V. Certificate of no criminal record

Foreigners employed in China are required to have an unblemished criminal record and must strictly comply with the laws and regulations of the People's Republic of China. The Certificate of No Criminal Record should be issued by the police, security agencies, courts, notary offices, or other relevant authorities in the applicant's country of nationality or habitual residence (in cases where the applicant has lived continuously outside their country of nationality for over one year). This document must first be notarized locally, then authenticated by the state government or foreign affairs department, and finally, undergo The Hague certification.

For individuals from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Macao Special Administrative Region, and Taiwan Region, certificates of no criminal record should be notarized by the local notary public offices. The issuance date of such certificates should be within the last six months.

Foreign nationals, as well as residents from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, who have been residing in Hainan for more than six months and have obtained a residence permit or a visa valid for 180 days or more, can apply to check their criminal records. They are required to present their passports to the Public Security Bureau's exit and entry administration department for the inquiry process.

Responsible Department:

Sanya’s Government Service Center (Service Zone for Foreigners)    (The zone offers services in English, Russian and Korean）

Office Address: Cheng Yun Building, No. 352 Yingbin Road, Jiyang District, Sanya

Number: 0898- 38221960

VI.Self-Service Registration Procedure of Foreigners' Accommodation in China

Foreign nationals staying in non-hotel accommodations must register with the local public security bureau within 24 hours of arrival, either in person or through their host.

(I). Offline Registration and Required Materials

1. Documents Required for Registration at A Local Police Station (Residence Jurisdiction)

(1) Original Passport;

(2) Original and photocopy of the local host’s ID card.

2. Hotel Registration

The easiest approach is to register at a hotel reception desk with your original passport, streamlining the need to visit the local police station.

(II) Online Registration and Required Materials

Foreign individuals or hosts may complete online accommodation registration by scanning the QR code below.

Foreign citizens and their hosts can download the Haiyi Ban app or access it via WeChat/Alipay, navigate to the "International Services Zone," and submit applications directly. The system auto-locates accommodation addresses during form completion and provides bilingual guidance throughout the process.

(III). Tips

1. Applicants must apply for the accommodation registration certificate in person at a police station, but you can close your accounts on your phone through our website or application.

2. If you change your address and move to a different police station’s jurisdiction, you must re-register your accommodation.

3. When registering online, enable location services and ensure you are staying at your accommodation to complete the process successfully.

Responsible Department:

VII.Professional Qualifications

The recognition of overseas professional qualifications in the Hainan Free Trade Port creates promising conditions for foreign professionals to work and start

businesses. Foreigners holding certificates of professional qualifications listed in the Directory of Recognized Overseas Professional Qualifications for the Hainan Free Trade Port, certified (registered) by the industry authorities of Hainan Province, may provide professional services to enterprises and residents within the designated professional scope and timelines.

(I)Overseas Personnel Professional Qualifications

1.Administrative Measures for Overseas Personnel in the Hainan Free Trade Port to Take Professional Qualification Examinations (Trial)(Chinese and English versions)

2. List of Overseas Professional Qualifications Recognized  by Hainan Free Trade Port (2024 Edition) (Chinese and English versions)

3.Administrative Measures for the Practice of Overseas Personnel in the Hainan Free Trade Port (Trial) (Chinese and English versions)

4.Inquiring Up-to-Date Information from Relevant Departments

For more detailed information, please monitor the annual announcements issued by the relevant regulatory authorities in your industry.