Hotel staff assisting a foreign guest with digital registration on a tablet
Hotel staff assisting a foreign guest with digital registration on a tablet
Summary

The short-stay foreign guest registration requirement takes effect on October 24, 2025. This article provides a practical checklist and step-by-step guide covering who is affected, how to report, operators’ obligations, penalties for violations, and the APEC-related security context.

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1. Why this measure matters now

According to the Ministry of Justice, the short-stay foreign guest registration requirement will take effect on October 24 to support security for the 2025 APEC Leaders' Meeting and to handle the growing number of short-term foreign visitors. The measure is designed not only for event security but also to strengthen visitor management and emergency response systems.

2. Quick summary: what the rule covers

  • What: Operators must record and report information for short-stay foreign guests (e.g., stays under 90 days).
  • When: Effective from 2025-10-24 (check official notices for any exceptions).
  • How: Information must be submitted via electronic reporting (online portal or dedicated app) or using the prescribed form, including identity and stay details.
  • Difference: This expands beyond simple accommodation logs to include a dedicated foreign-guest reporting procedure and security linkage.

3. Checklist for accommodation operators

  • Register an electronic reporting account (local government or Ministry of Justice portal).
  • Required documents: scanned passport details, duration of stay, visa type, and contact information.
  • Prepare reporting forms and privacy notices for guests.
  • Train staff on reporting procedures and emergency contact protocols.
  • Set data retention and disposal policies in accordance with personal data protection laws.
Hotel staff assisting a foreign guest with digital registration on a tablets

4. Guide for foreign travelers

  • Present your passport at check-in and complete an electronic or paper form per the accommodation’s instructions.
  • Accurately enter your duration of stay and visa status, and provide a reachable phone number.
  • Review privacy notices regarding how your data will be stored and handled; ask the property for details if needed.
  • Keep emergency contacts handy (the accommodation, your embassy, and local emergency numbers).

5. Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to report may result in fines, temporary suspension of reporting privileges, or other administrative sanctions. Specific penalties and enforcement criteria vary by official announcements and local government guidelines.

6. FAQ

Q1. Does this rule apply to all types of accommodation?
A1. It generally applies to most traditional accommodations (hotels, motels, guesthouses), but small private lodgings and certain exceptions may be specified by local governments—check the official notices.
Q2. What if a foreign guest refuses to provide personal information?
A2. As this is a legal reporting requirement, properties should advise guests of the obligation and follow local guidance; if a guest refuses, consult the local authority for specific handling instructions.
Q3. Are short-term rentals like Airbnb included?
A3. Private short-term rentals are likely to be included; operators should review their local government’s detailed rules and comply accordingly.
Q4. Where can I find the reporting forms?
A4. Reporting forms and online submission portals will be available on the Ministry of Justice website and local government portals.
Q5. How long must the data be retained?
A5. Data retention and disposal must comply with personal data protection laws; local guidelines will specify precise retention periods.
Q6. Are there additional safety-related requirements?
A6. For APEC and related security aims, emergency contact registration and having an emergency response protocol in place are likely to be recommended.
Q7. Who should accommodation operators contact for more information?
A7. Contact the local city/county tourism office or the relevant Ministry of Justice department for detailed procedures and support.

7. Practical steps

  1. Collect the Ministry of Justice announcement and related domestic and international news links.
  2. Analyze traffic and related keyword trends in GA4 and Search Console for your site.
  3. Check the electronic reporting portal (local government / Ministry of Justice) to preview forms and register a test account.
  4. Conduct staff training on reporting procedures and distribute checklists (run a drill if possible).
  5. Coordinate with education and policy teams to prepare multilingual guest notices and emergency contact lists.

8. Notes / cautions

Note: Local governments may issue differing detailed schedules and exception rules—always verify the original official notice. Also ensure strict compliance with personal data protection laws when handling guest information.