(1)Application Channels:

There are several official channels to authenticate your academic credentials. Here are three main methods for your reference, depending on your situation:

①Embassies/Consulates:

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.

②Chinese 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.

③Local Notary Authorities:

You can also notarize your academic credentials through a notary office in the country where the degree was obtained.

Important Note: 

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:

①Original and copy of the degree or diploma to be authenticated.

②Original and copy of a valid passport or other identification document.

③If an agent is applying on your behalf, a copy of the agent's and your valid ID, along with a power of attorney.

④A fully completed authentication application form (some channels may offer online forms).

(1)Applying for a Criminal Record Certificate Outside of China

①Steps for Application:

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.

Important Note:  

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.

②Required 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:

①Eligibility Requirements:

Foreign nationals must have a residence permit issued by Shanghai and must have resided in Shanghai for 180 days or more.

②Required Application Materials:

A.Valid passport.

B.Residence permit.

C.Temporary accommodation registration form for foreigners (optional).

D.If applying through a third party, an authorization letter is required.

③Application Process:

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.

Important Note:  

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.