Home Return Permit - Rights and Responsibilities

Rights and Responsibilities

Holders of the Home Return Permit are able to freely enter Mainland China for tourism or business purposes (except purposes of employment) within the validity of their travel document, regardless of the point of origin whether it is from Hong Kong/Macau or from overseas. However, they must register with the local police (Public Security Bureau) within 24 hours - or within 72 hours in the countryside - if they are staying overnight for a short trip in a friend or relative's home.

If holders of the Home Return Permit intend to reside in the Mainland on a long term basis, they are required to first obtain permission from the local prefecture/municipality police (Public Security Bureau), from whom they will obtain a special long-term residence permit if their application is accepted.