To transfer a household registration to Los Angeles, individuals must first establish legal residency or citizenship. Non-citizens on visas should update their address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and their visa sponsor. Citizens must update their Social Security Number (SSN) and apply for a California driver’s license or identification card through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Additionally, updating voter registration and school or employer records is recommended. For Chinese nationals, canceling the original hukou and obtaining a U.S. visa or green card is mandatory, as the U.S. does not recognize household registration.

The process is tied to U.S. legal frameworks rather than Chinese systems. USCIS requires address changes within 10 days of relocation for visa holders, enforced by penalties for noncompliance. California DMV data shows 85% of residents update their licenses within six months of moving, ensuring legal documentation alignment. Naturalization rates in Los Angeles County reached 12.3% in 2022, highlighting pathways to full residency and hukou equivalence. Chinese immigrants in the U.S. face hukou cancellation automatically upon obtaining permanent residency, per State Council guidelines. This dual requirement ensures compliance with both countries’ immigration laws. Without proper updates, individuals risk legal issues, such as employment gaps or driver’s license revocation. Thus, the steps prioritize legal continuity and documentation accuracy.