When you need an exit-entry service in mainland China, start with the matter you need handled. The office that accepts a residence-permit application is a public-security exit-entry authority; 12367 is the NIA's official service hotline for questions and routing.
Find the responsible office
- Write down your current city and place of residence, the type of visa or permit you hold, and whether you need issuance, extension, alteration or reissuance.
- Read the NIA residence-permit service guide for the national accepting-authority rule. It says prefecture-level city public-security exit-entry departments normally accept residence-permit applications; some county-level authorities may also be authorized.
- Use the local public-security exit-entry authority's published contact information, or call 12367 to ask which office accepts your specific application and what current local channel to use. Confirm the address and appointment requirement before traveling.
- Ask the receiving office for its current document list and whether a sponsor needs to supply anything. Keep a note of the office, date and response.
Using 12367
The NIA's December 2025 notice says callers can dial +86-12367, select a language through the voice menu, and obtain an immediate English voice response. It also describes the NIA 12367 app and mini-programs. Availability can change; the hotline gives guidance, while the receiving exit-entry office examines and decides an application.
If you get conflicting directions
Tell 12367 the city, permit type and exact issue, then ask it to identify the responsible office. If a local office gives different filing instructions, ask that office to clarify its current procedure and any applicable written rule. A directory result, a sponsor's advice or a hotline conversation does not itself extend a permit or prove that an application was accepted.
This guide does not assert current office hours, appointment slots, fees or city-specific paperwork. Confirm those directly with the responsible office before you act.