What is a Temporary Residence Permit in China?
A Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) is a permit issued by the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) that is necessary for any foreigner who intends to stay in China for more than the allowed Visitor’s Visa period. The Temporary Residence Permit is issued for a set period of time and includes the holder’s particulars, its intended purpose, and valid until the expiration of the given period. Along with the Temporary Residence Permit, one is also required to obtain a visa for China.
What Visas does a Temporary Residence Permit apply to?
A Temporary Residence Permit can be obtained for the following visas:
- Residency Visa (Z)
- Employment Visa (X)
- Study Visa (X)
- Visit Visa (F)
- Business Visa (F)
- Journalism Visa (J)
How do I apply for a Temporary Residence Permit in China?
In order to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit in China, one must first obtain the appropriate visa. An applicant must then submit the following documents to the local Public Security Bureau (PSB):
- A valid passport
- Visa application form (available from the local PSB)
- A valid certificate of residence issued by the local police station
- Recent passport-size photographs of the applicant
- Employment information from the host institution in China (for certain visas)
- Proof of financial stability
- Rental Agreement (if applicable)
- Proof of medical insurance
The application process can take up to one month, depending on the visa. Additionally, an applicant may be required to undertake a medical examination before a Temporary Residence Permit can be issued.
What is the Cost of Obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit in China?
The cost of obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit in China depends on the type of visa that is being applied for and may vary between different locations. Generally, the cost of obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit is between ¥80-200.
What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit in China?
Obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit in China has numerous benefits. These include:
- Validity of up to one year
- Multiple entry and exits to and from China for the duration of permit
- Permits the holder to work in China, open bank accounts and deal with other financial matters
- Paves the way for a longer stay in China
- Permits the holder to study, attend conferences, etc
- Permits the holder to obtain a PRC Driver’s License
FAQs
How is a Temporary Residence Permit different from a Visa?
A Temporary Residence Permit is different from a Visa in that a visa permits a foreign national to enter China while a Temporary Residence Permit is a permit issued by the local Public Security Bureau that enables one to stay in the country for a certain period of time.
Are there any requirements to obtain a Temporary Residence Permit in China?
Yes, there are certain requirements that must be met before a Temporary Residence Permit in China can be issued. These include a valid passport, a valid certificate of residence issued by the local police station, recent passport-size photographs of the applicant, employment information from the host institution in China, proof of financial stability, rental agreement (if applicable), and proof of medical insurance.
What happens if I overstay my Temporary Residence Permit?
If you overstay your Temporary Residence Permit, you may be subject to fines, detention, or even deportation. It is therefore important to ensure that your Temporary Residence Permit does not expire before you leave China.
Conclusion
The Temporary Residence Permit is an important document for any foreign national wishing to stay in China for more than the allowed visa period. It is necessary to obtain the appropriate visa, as well as fulfill certain requirements before the Temporary Residence Permit can be issued. It is important to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted in time as overlaps may lead to fines, detention, or even deportation.
