According to the Service Guide for Issuing Residence Certificates for Foreigners published on the Chinese government website, foreigners applying for residence certificates, as well as extending, renewing and reissuing them, should, in principle, go through the relevant procedures at the exit and entry administration of the public security organ in person. However, for high-level talents and specialized talents urgently needed by the country, as well as those who are under 16 years old or over 60 years old and have difficulty moving due to illness or other reasons, the inviting unit or individual, the applicant’s relatives, and relevant specialized service agencies can apply on their behalf. Therefore, if foreigners do not belong to the above special circumstances, they usually need to apply for residence permits in person.
