Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents who have lived in the inland (mainland) China for more than six months with a legitimate and stable job, a legitimate and stable residence or continuous school attendance are eligible to apply for a residence permit in accordance with the relevant regulations according to their wishes.

Foreign nationals who change jobs in China often go through the process of changing their visas. Expatriates may have some difficulties in changing their visa due to some documentation issues. When a foreigner leaves their current job for some reason, they must apply for cancellation of their work permit within 10 working days from the last day of employment. Otherwise, they may have problems applying for a work permit again in China.

Application for permanent residence of foreigners in China currently can be divided into four categories, that is, family reunion, work and employment, investment, and special contributions. Different areas or cities may have different rules for foreigners to apply for permanent residence in China. Applicants should consult with their local public security departments for the specific application conditions and requirements.

The international Expats in Shanghai could reunion with their families in Shanghai by applying S1, S2, residence permits for reunions and residence permits for personal matters. The family member generally refers to spouse, parents, parents in law, child, child in law, grandparents, grandparents in law, grandchild, grandchild in law, siblings.

Residence permit is a valid legal certificate issued by Chinese government in accordance with PRC laws and regulations for foreigners applying to reside in China. Foreigners holding visas that indicate the need to apply for residence permits after entry shall apply for residence permits for foreigners within 30 days from the date of entry to the public security exit and entry administration authorities of the local people's government at or above the county level in the intended place of residence.

To facilitate foreigners to carry out business or trade activities, work and study in China, the Ministry of Public Security of the PRC recently released some measures as follows: Issuance of Port Visa and Multiple-Entry Business Visa; Retention of Passport During Residence Permit Application

Experiencing the pandemic of Covid -19, many foreigners who work in Shanghai have consulted as about the relevant policies for Chinese “Green Card”, the permanent residency. Now, the following foreigners could apply the permanent residency for foreign staff working in China (Shanghai) pilot free trade zone Lin-Gang Special Area, the core member of a research team, special talents, couple reunion, senior/professional staff

Now, plenty of foreigners are confident towards the Chinese markets and considering starting business or work in China. However, leaving hometown to start a business aboard or find a job would not be an easy choice for them. After obtaining Chinese visa and arriving in China, foreigners would also need to pay attention on Chinese policies.

A Chinese visa is a permit issued by the Chinese visa authorities to a foreigner for entry into, exit from or transit through China. Foreigners must obtain a visa before entry into China, with the exception of visa-free entry based on relevant agreements or regulations. Chinese embassies, consulates and other institutions stationed abroad entrusted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC are visa-issuing authorities responsible