China tackles growing identity crisis

What's in a name?

Situations in which residents must have hukou, also known as a household registration certificate.

To register a newborn baby.

To get married.

To enroll at school.

To prove their relationship with family members.

To purchase a house or car.

To find employment.

 

Advantages of obtaining a Beijing hukou

Beijing residents can purchase lower-price or affordable housing from restricted stock, while people without hukou can only buy commercial residential properties.

Beijing residents can attend less-expensive public kindergartens and do not need to pay extra fees to attend the best middle and high schools.

Beijing's universities also provide privileges for local students.

Unemployed residents are eligible to collect unemployment benefit.

Some administrative or government departments prefer to employ Beijing residents.

Elderly residents with Beijing hukou receive larger pensions.

Beijing residents have access to free medical care.

Beijing residents can obtain maternity insurance that is not available to some people without hukou.

Beijing residents age 60 and older do not pay to use the city's bus services.