No, this is not a joke.

So, yesterday, I went with my mum to mainland China to visit some friends and relatives. We went there by train (2 hours ride in a comfy double-decked Hong Kong train ) and when we got there, I found myself staring at the back of a Departure Card, which was written in english. I picked it up, read it, and nearly fell on the floor with laughter.

Here's what it said:

Important Notice

 

1. Aliens who do not lodge at hotels, guesthouses or inns shall, within 24 hours (72 hours in rural areas) of entry, go through accommodation registration at local police station.

 

2. Aliens holding visas Z, X or J-1 shall, within 30 days of entry, apply for Residence Permits to the exit-entry department of the public security bureau of the city where the applicants reside.

 

3. Aliens shall not be employed in China without premissions of the competent authorities of the Chinese Government.

 

4. Aliens who reside of stay in China shall carry with themselves their passports of Residence Permits for possible examination.

Looks lke China have a LOT of aliens.

~ Bioran