China Hunting License: Application Process and Regulations Guide

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

The process of obtaining a hunting license in China may seem complex for those interested in this activity. This country, with its rich biodiversity and vast natural landscapes, attracts many passionate hunters.

However, the strict regulations and rigorous administrative procedures in place to ensure wildlife conservation and legal compliance can make this process intimidating.

Understanding the specific requirements and essential steps to navigate this process is crucial for anyone wishing to explore the vast hunting grounds China has to offer legally.

Authorization to Obtain a Hunting License in China

Required Documents for Hunting License Application in China:

• Official application form properly completed
• Valid identification (national ID card or passport for foreigners)
• Recent identification photo
• Medical certificate attesting to the applicant’s physical and mental fitness for hunting activities
• Proof of payment for administrative fees

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old (age may vary locally, but this is the standard in most provinces)
• No prior convictions for serious violations of firearms legislation, poaching, or species protection laws
• Legal residence in China (for foreigners, a long-stay visa is generally required)
• Pass theoretical and practical assessments covering:
  • Knowledge of forestry and hunting law
  • Identification of protected/non-protected species
  • Safe handling of firearms

Involved Government Agencies:

Agency	Main Role
Provincial/Municipal Forestry Department	Processing and issuing the license
Provincial/Municipal Public Security Bureau	Background check & firearm authorization
National Forestry and Grassland Administration (NFGA)	Overall supervision & annual quotas

Restrictions on Types of Hunters Eligible for a License:

• Individuals with criminal records related to violent or environmental crimes
• Minors

⬛️ The standard duration is one year, renewable after administrative review.

⬛️ The cost varies by province from 500 RMB (~$70) to 2000 RMB (~$280), sometimes with an additional annual regional ecological fee.

⬛️ Additional fees possible for possession/specific license related to firearms used during hunting.

Please note that some Chinese autonomous regions have their own additional regulations concerning authorized periods (“official” season), as well as the maximum annual individual take per species.

Hunting Regulations to Follow

Legal and Regulatory Framework:

• In China, hunting is strictly regulated by the Wildlife Protection Law (revised in 2016 and 2022) and various provincial regulations.
• Only species listed on “huntable” animal lists published by local authorities may be hunted. Many native species are protected or off-limits for hunting.
• Hunting seasons are determined locally, often limited to specific seasons for each species to respect breeding and migration cycles.

Category	Main Regulation
Huntable Species	Specific lists, regularly updated by local authorities
Protected Species	Strict prohibition (e.g., giant panda, tiger, rare birds)
Hunting Seasons	Varies by region and species, always time-limited
Authorized Methods	Prohibition of non-selective traps, poisons, and night hunting
Quotas	Strict limits on takes per individual and per season
Licenses	Mandatory to obtain a license issued by the local administration

Restrictions on Hunting Methods:

• Mandatory use of certified weapons and registered equipment.
• Prohibition of hunting with non-selective means (traps, nets, poisons).
• Prohibition of hunting in nature reserves, national parks, and protected areas.
• Use of dogs and motor vehicles subject to specific authorization.

Quotas and Reporting:

• Annual or seasonal quotas are set for each species.
• Mandatory reporting of all takes to the competent authorities.
• Strict retention of proof of take (bands, tags, official documents).
• Any hunting of protected species or beyond quota is illegal.

Penalties for Violations:

• Heavy fines, confiscation of hunting equipment, permanent license revocation.
• Possible criminal prosecution for poaching, illegal trade, or harm to protected species.
• In cases of biodiversity damage or repeat offenses, prison sentences as provided by law.

Importance of Regulatory Compliance:

• Compliance with local and national laws is essential to obtain and maintain a hunting license in China.
• Any violation not only leads to administrative and criminal penalties but also compromises wildlife protection and the hunter’s reputation.
• The Chinese administration conducts regular field checks and collaborates with international authorities to combat poaching.

In China, legal hunting is a highly regulated activity subject to numerous obligations. Strict compliance with regulations is essential for biodiversity preservation and obtaining a hunting license.

Guide for Expatriate Hunters in China

To obtain a hunting license in China as an expatriate, it is necessary to follow a strict procedure, heavily regulated by local authorities and subject to specific conditions for foreign nationals.

License Type	Description	Validity Period	Special Conditions
General Hunting License	Authorizes hunting in certain areas and for certain species	Annual or seasonal	Prior approval from local authorities, strict quotas
Special License (safari, non-protected species)	Permits hunting of specific species in reserves	Limited duration (event, season)	Enhanced monitoring, listed species

Required Documents for Foreigners:

• Valid passport and residence permit in China.
• Invitation letter or proof of hunting activity (issued by a local authority, association, or approved reserve).
• Official translation of documents into Chinese.
• Proof of hunting experience or hunting license from home country (depending on the region).
• Medical fitness certificate issued in China.
• Properly completed hunting license application form.
• Payment of license fees (amount varies by province and license type).
• Registration with the local police station.

Local Regulations and Hunting Restrictions:

• Mandatory possession of a valid hunting license for any hunting activity.
• Strict prohibition on hunting protected species (giant panda, tiger, crane, certain deer species, etc.).
• Compliance with hunting opening and closing periods (seasonal calendar specific to each province).
• Limitation on the number of animals that can be taken per license.
• Obligation to report all game taken to the competent authorities.
• Prohibition on transporting firearms without explicit and documented authorization.
• Firearms must be declared upon entry into the territory and stored under strict security conditions.

Legal Obligations and Possible Training:

• Attend an information session or training on local regulations (required in some cases before license issuance).
• Mandatory cooperation with local wildlife authorities and police (frequent field checks).
• Present all documents upon request.
• Strict adherence to authorized hunting zones.

Practical Tips for Expatriates:

• Contact a local hunters’ association or specialized agency in advance to facilitate administrative procedures.
• Learn about cultural specifics: hunting in China is heavily regulated and perceived differently by region; some acts considered harmless elsewhere may be penalized.
• Seek support from a certified translator for dossier preparation and interactions with authorities.
• Consult consular services or expatriation advisory firms for up-to-date information on local procedures.
• Always carry copies of translated and validated documents.
• Be aware of evolving wildlife laws, as penalties for violations can be severe, even leading to expulsion.

Warning: Hunting without a license or outside authorized periods is subject to heavy criminal penalties in China, including substantial fines, equipment confiscation, and possibly prison sentences or expulsion from the territory.