Golden yellow cerium conversion film was obtained on magnesium alloys surface by immersion method and the preparation parameters were established. The influence of different process parameters on the surface morphology and performance of the conversion film were analyzed by means of SEM and electrochemical method. Formation dynamics about cerium conversion film on magnesium alloy in solution containing cerium salt and the anti-corrosion behavior of the conversion film in 3.5% NaCl solution were studied by electrochemical method respectively. The results shows that the conversion film is more compact at room temperature when concentration of cerium sulfate is 10 g·L-1 in the solution; the open circuit potential of the magnesium sample moves up to positive direction about 100 mV, the surface of conversion film becomes even and lustrous, and the adhesion intensity of conversion film increases when adding aluminum nitrate into the solution containing cerium salt. The pH value of the solution and immersion time of the sample in the solution also affect the surface morphology and anti-corrosion property of the conversion film. After covered by rare earths conversion film, the anti-corrosion property of magnesium alloy is obviously improved. Rare earth conversion film has self-repairing capability in corrosion medium.