Registering your address in Guangzhou: the 24-hour rule
Guangzhou runs an online accommodation declaration system for foreign residents, and 12 smart exit-entry halls across the city — one of which stays open until 21:30.
Hotels register guests automatically. In a rented flat or any private accommodation in Guangzhou, registration is on you — within 24 hours of moving in.
The rule
Foreign nationals staying in accommodation other than a hotel must register with the local public security organs within 24 hours of moving in. The property owner may file it on your behalf. Failing to register carries a warning and a fine of up to CNY 2,000, and gaps in your registration history surface later when you apply for a visa extension or residence permit.
What to bring
- Your passport, with the current visa or entry stamp
- The rental contract or property ownership certificate
- Your landlord’s ID — the most common reason people are turned away is that this was not arranged in advance
Address registration happens at the police station covering your address. Visa and residence permit business is separate, and is handled at the exit-entry office below.
Guangzhou lets you declare online
The Guangzhou Public Security Bureau runs an online service system for foreign nationals that includes personal accommodation declaration. If you can complete it online, do — it saves a trip and sidesteps the counter language barrier.
Guangzhou has also built 12 smart exit-entry service halls covering every district. The Huangpu district hall extends service to 21:30, which is unusual and useful if you cannot take time off work.
Exit-entry office
General enquiries: 96110110.
| Office | Address | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Entry & Exit Administration, Guangzhou Municipal PSBYuexiu 96110110 | 6/F, No. 155 South Jiefang Road | Not published — call ahead |
No office matches that filter.
Verified 2026-09-01 · Source: official listing
Only the main municipal office is listed here. District halls also handle exit-entry business; we publish locations only once verified against an official listing, so this list will grow rather than be padded out.
Sources
- Guangzhou International — Entry, Exit and Residence Procedures
- Guangzhou PSB — Online accommodation declaration for foreign nationals
- National Immigration Administration — Entry-Exit and Stay (Residence) of Foreigners
Rules and office hours change. This page records what the official sources said on the verification date shown above; confirm anything time-critical directly with the office before you travel.