Foreigners often require specific documents for various official processes. Here, we provide an overview of some of the most commonly needed documents, along with their application materials and procedures.
1. Academic Credential Authentication for Foreigners
There are several official channels to authenticate your academic credentials. Here are three main methods for your reference, depending on your situation: You can submit an application for authentication through Chinese embassies or consulates abroad, or through the embassies and consulates of the country where you obtained your academic degree in China.② Chinese Academic Certification Authorities: The China (Ministry of Education) Service Center for Scholarly Exchange accepts applications for the authentication of academic degrees or higher education diplomas obtained outside of China.③ Local Notary Authorities: You can also notarize your academic credentials through a notary office in the country where the degree was obtained.The requirements for academic credential authentication may vary depending on the purpose, such as studying abroad or employment. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines provided by the relevant authorities and confirm the required materials in advance.(2)Required Application Materials: The basic documents for academic credential authentication include:① Original and copy of the degree or diploma to be authenticated.② Original and copy of a valid passport or other identification document.③ If an agent is applying on your behalf, a copy of the agent's and your valid ID, along with a power of attorney.④ A fully completed authentication application form (some channels may offer online forms).2. Criminal Record Certificate(1)Applying for a Criminal Record Certificate Outside of China A.Obtain a criminal record certificate from the police, security, or judicial departments in your home country or the country where you have resided for over a year (excluding China). Ensure the certificate is accompanied by a Chinese translation. B.Submit the certificate to a Chinese embassy or consulate for authentication. If the certificate is issued in Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan, it must be notarized by a local notary authority. The rules for authentication vary by country and region. It’s best to consult the Chinese embassy or consulate, or the local notary office for specific guidelines. Non-sworn criminal record certificates issued by foreign diplomatic authorities (including foreign embassies in China) may be accepted without additional authentication. Generally, criminal record certificates are valid for six months from the date of issue. ② Required Application Materials: A.The basic documents for authenticating a criminal record certificate include:B.Original and copy of the document to be authenticated.C.A valid identification document.D.If someone is applying on your behalf, you must also provide a valid ID and power of attorney for the agent.E.A fully completed authentication application form.(2)Applying for a Criminal Record Certificate Within China While the specific requirements for obtaining a criminal record certificate vary by city in China, the general application process is similar. Here, we use Shanghai as an example of the procedure for foreigners: ① Eligibility Requirements: Foreign nationals must have a residence permit issued by Shanghai and must have resided in Shanghai for 180 days or more. ② Required Application Materials: C.Temporary accommodation registration form for foreigners (optional). D.If applying through a third party, an authorization letter is required.A.Bring the necessary materials to the exit and entry administration office of the public security bureau in the area where you reside to apply for a criminal record certificate.B.After receiving the criminal record certificate, visit a local notary office to notarize and translate the document for use during your stay in China. If you have lived in multiple cities in China, you will need to apply for a criminal record certificate in each city where you resided.This guide provides an overview of the basic processes and materials required for foreigners to apply for key documents. Be sure to consult the relevant authorities for detailed and specific instructions based on your personal situation.Source: OneTubeDaily, 国家留学基金管理委员会