Guide to application for a residence permit for foreigners (work)

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2026-05-26

This guide provides essential information to foreigners and employers in Hainan province on applying for a residence permit for foreigners (work).

Basic requirements
Foreign nationals who need to reside in China for non-diplomatic or official reasons after entering the country may apply to the exit and entry administration departments of public security authorities for the issuance, extension, change, or reissuance of their residence permits in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Foreign nationals who are specialized professionals or investors in accordance with national regulations, or who, for humanitarian or other legitimate reasons, need to change their status from stay to residence, may apply for a residence permit for foreigners, with the approval of the exit and entry administration department of the public security authority of the local people's government at or above the prefecture-level city.

Foreign nationals applying for residence permits, as well as extensions, changes or reissuance, shall appear in person at the exit and entry administration departments of public security authorities to complete the relevant formalities.

If the applicant is: (1) a high-level talent or urgently needed specialized professional; (2) under the age of 16 or over the age of 60; or (3) has limited mobility due to illness or other reasons, the inviting employer or individual, the applicant's relatives, or relevant specialized service agencies may apply on behalf of the applicant.

Required materials
1. One two-inch front-facing photo on a white background;
2. Applicant's valid passport or other international travel documents;
3. Application letter issued by the employer;
4. Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit of the People's Republic of China, or an electronic social security card loaded with work permit information;
5. Physical examination records;
6. Employer-related materials (business licenses of enterprises, legal person certificates of public institutions and service providing permits of tutoring companies);
7. Explanation for failure in applying for a Z visa before arriving in China due to time constraints;
8. Proof of cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit;
9. Application submitted by the employer for cancellation of a work-related residence permit.

Where to submit your application
1. Haikou
Authority: Haikou Municipal Public Security Bureau
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-noon and 2:00 pm-5:30 pm (except public holidays)
Contact: 0898-12367
Click here for more details.

2. Sanya
Authority: Sanya Municipal Public Security Bureau
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm (except public holidays)
Contact: 0898-12367

3. Danzhou
Authority: Danzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am-noon and 2:30 pm-5:30 pm (except public holidays)
Contact: 0898-12367