Fluoride-coating was prepared on AZ31B magnesium alloy by an immersion treatment in hydrofluoric acid at room temperature, and the surface morphology, composition, corrosion resistance and degradation mechanism of the coated alloy were studied. The results show that the conversion coating is compact with good bonding to the alloy. The corrosion resistance of the fluoride coated AZ31B alloy is obviously improved, and its degradation in simulated body fluid (SBF) is slow. The pH value of the SBF (the coated alloy immersed in) keeps in a range of 7.5 to 8.8, which can effectively reduce the alkalization caused by the biodegradation of the alloy. The fluoride coating gradually transform into Ca3(PO4)2 in SBF, which will continue protect the alloy from the corrosion.