After entering the country, foreigners who need to reside in China for reasons other than diplomatic or official matters may apply to the exit-entry administration authorities of the public security organ for the issuance, extension, renewal or reissuance of residence permits in accordance with relevant regulations.

Foreigners who meet state criteria as specialized talents or investors, or who need to change their stay to residence for humanitarian reasons, may apply for a foreigner's residence permit with the approval of the exit-entry administration authorities of the public security organ of municipal-level or higher local people's governments.

Foreigners applying for residence permits, as well as the extension, renewal or reissuance of the permits, shall go to the exit-entry administration authorities of the public security organ to go through the relevant procedures in person. Foreigners who are high-level talents needed by the state, urgently needed specialized talents, those who are under 16 years of age or over 60 years of age, or those who are unable to move due to illness or other reasons, may apply through the inviting entity or individual, the applicant's relatives, or relevant specialized service agencies.