In recent years, Shenzhen has become one of the easiest cities for international students to obtain household registration, as there is no requirement for social insurance and no physical examination is required for the application process.
Eligibility for international students to obtain household registration in Shenzhen is dependent on certain conditions. The process generally takes 1-2 months and is currently free of charge. However, if an applicant chooses to engage an agency for assistance, a fee of around 1800-2000 RMB may apply.
The following conditions must be met to qualify for household registration:
1. Individuals who have completed their undergraduate studies or above overseas and have obtained a degree (this includes individuals who have obtained permanent residency in their country of study or have been granted re-entry permission to that country).
2. Visiting scholars or post-doctoral students who have studied or worked in a university or scientific research institution overseas for more than one year and have achieved certain academic achievements.
Under the latest policy, eligibility criteria for international students obtaining household registration in Shenzhen is consistent with domestic standards. That is, individuals who have obtained a bachelor's degree must be under the age of 35, those who have a master's degree must be under 40, and those who have a Ph.D. must be under 45 years old.
International students seeking household registration in Shenzhen can select from the following three types of residences:
1. Residence under a family’s property: suitable for individuals who own property in Shenzhen themselves, or whose family members or friends own property in the city.
2. Company collective residence: suitable for individuals whose employer has a company collective household registration. Such applicants should consult the company’s human resources department for information.
3. Police station talent residence: suitable for most working individuals, as it is stable and convenient, and permanent residence is free.
Applicants without a job or accommodation in Shenzhen may still apply for household registration by registering at the local police station and providing relevant residence proof documents, such as rental contracts or proof of accommodation, from their landlord.
In order to apply for household registration in Shenzhen, applicants must also provide specific documents, such as overseas degree certificates, ID cards, marriage certificates (if applicable), household registration books (including personal and household pages), birth certificates (if the applicant has a child), and graduation certificates.
To clarify, for individuals who married in China, they should provide their marriage certificate; for those who married overseas, they should provide a marriage certificate authenticated by the Chinese embassy or consulate. Divorced individuals should also provide a divorce certificate, a divorce agreement, a divorce judgment, or a divorce mediation agreement.
Under current policies, there is no subsidy for international students with a degree below a Ph.D. who obtain household registration in Shenzhen. However, the city is working on a subsidy policy for individuals below the age of 35 who hold a Ph.D.
In conclusion, with the correct documentation and qualifications, international students can easily obtain household registration in Shenzhen, which is an excellent opportunity for those seeking to establish their future lives and careers in China.