Two hundred and twenty four foreigners now have permanent residence certificates in Shanghai, more than in any other Chinese city, according to the Shanghai Public Security Bureau (PSB).

More than 400 foreign nationals have applied for certificates of permanent residence in the city since August 23, 2004 when the Shanghai Public Security Bureau Exit-Entry Administration Bureau started to handle the applications.

Foreigners who wish to obtain a permanent residence permit must be "high-ranking foreign talents working in sectors or organizations that benefit China, foreign investors who retain a large amount of direct investment in China, foreign nationals who have made important contributions to the state in roles that are in short supply," according to the Shanghai PSB. Their spouses and other dependents also qualify for the permits.

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