Hotels in China: what foreign visitors need to know

Updated 9 November 2026

Hongyadong, Chongqing — Photo: Youyiy33 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Hotels in China must register foreign guests with the police. Most mid-range and international hotels do this routinely at check-in — but some budget hotels and many homestays still can't. Choose carefully and you'll never notice.

How to book the right hotel

Book on a site that shows whether a hotel accepts foreign guests — Trip.com lets you filter for it.
International chains and most 3★+ hotels in big cities accept foreigners.
If unsure, message the hotel before booking: "Can you accept foreign passport holders?"
Save the hotel's address in Chinese characters to show taxi drivers.

At check-in

Hand over your passport. The front desk scans it and your visa or entry stamp — this is your police registration.
Pay a deposit. Usually by Alipay, WeChat Pay or card; refunded at checkout.
Keep your passport with you afterwards — you need it for trains, museums and many attractions.

Homestays and Airbnb-style rentals

Many private rentals cannot register foreign guests. If you book one, ask the host to confirm they can register you — otherwise you must register yourself (below).

Staying with friends or family

If you stay anywhere other than a hotel, you must register with the local police station within 24 hours of arrival in cities (72 hours in rural areas). Your host should go with you, bringing their ID or lease and your passport. In some cities this can be done online.

Where to stay

Pick a hotel near a metro station — it makes everything easier. See each city guide for the best neighbourhoods.

FAQ

Can foreigners stay in any hotel in China?

Not all. Hotels need to be able to register foreign guests with the police. Most mid-range and international hotels can; some budget hotels and many homestays cannot. Filter for hotels that accept foreigners when booking.

Do I need to register with the police in China?

Hotels do it for you at check-in. If you stay in a private home, you need to register at the local police station within 24 hours (72 hours in rural areas).