Li Yong (right), director of Zhejiang Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, delivers the confirmation letter for R visas to a foreign expert on March 12. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

The first group of 16 overseas high-end talents received confirmation letters for R visas from Zhejiang Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs in Hangzhou on March 12.

The new regulations on issuing R visas for overseas talents took effect on March 1 in Zhejiang. The visas allow top overseas talents to stay in China for up to 180 days at a time with multiple border entries valid from five to 10 years.

It makes it possible for foreign experts to get to know the country before having to apply for a work permit.

Zhejiang Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs assumed the responsibility of reviewing applicants' qualifications and issuing confirmation letters to those who submit materials in the province.

The first group of professionals includes faculty members from universities and top scientists from high-tech companies and institutions.

Zhejiang is undergoing rapid economic and social development. Its capital city is endeavoring to build itself into an international metropolis. High-end research institutions such as Zhejiang Lab and high-tech zones are seeking talents with great eagerness.

Li Yong, director of Zhejiang Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs said that in the past five years, Zhejiang has introduced 200,000 overseas professionals. "They play an irreplaceable role in the province's development and in the future, we will figure out more policies to retain them," Li added.