Nation starts accepting childcare subsidy in late August

Parents of children under 3 years old can apply for childcare subsidies with local governments across China from late this month, according to the National Health Commission.

The subsidy will become available nationwide by Aug. 31.

Children play games in a kindergarten in Bantian, Longgang District. Photo from Duchuang News

The childcare subsidies can primarily be applied for online through a unified national childcare subsidy information management system, allowing applicants to complete their submissions conveniently from home. For those unable to apply online due to special circumstances, offline application channels and in-person services will remain available at township and subdistrict offices where the infant is registered. Applicants can freely choose their preferred method based on their individual situation.

To facilitate a smooth application process and minimize paperwork, the subsidy information management system has established data-sharing mechanisms with public security, civil affairs, human resources, and social security authorities to enable big data verification. This “data-first” approach reduces the need for submitting multiple documents. Applicants need to provide only essential proof such as the infant’s birth medical certificate and household registration book to verify identity and parental relationship.

In addition, the application channels have been expanded for greater accessibility. Provincial government service platforms have set up dedicated childcare subsidy application zones, while popular third-party platforms like Alipay and WeChat now feature direct application entrances. These user-friendly digital platforms enable parents to apply quickly and easily through their mobile devices, making the childcare subsidy application process “no need to leave home, just a simple tap, hassle-free.”

Starting Jan. 1 this year, families with up to three children will receive a subsidy of 3,600 yuan (US$507) per year per child until they reach 3 years old. Infants born before Jan. 1, 2025, who are under 3 years old are also eligible for the subsidy, which will be calculated proportionally based on the child’s age in months. For example, a baby born in December 2023 would be entitled to 24 months of subsidies totaling 7,200 yuan.