Green card rules eased in Shanghai

Permanent residency permits, or "green cards", will be easier to obtain for foreigners working in Shanghai beginning July 1 as the city bids to establish a global science and innovation center, the Ministry of Public Security said on Tuesday.

Foreigners who have worked consecutively for at least four years in Shanghai, and who have lived in China for more than six months each year with a considerable annual salary, assured living address, good tax record and employer's recommendation will be able to apply for permanent resident permits.

Unlike the old rules, the new ones do not rely on an applicant's professional title as a requirement.

According to a senior official from the ministry who declined to be named, the new regulation aims to support Shanghai's effort to establish a global center by attracting foreign talent.

Highly skilled foreigners in certain fields in Shanghai who have been recognized by the municipal government will be able to receive a five-year working visa. They also will be eligible to apply for permanent resident permits after three years.

Additionally, such experts without a valid visa will be able to apply for a talent visa upon arrival.

Foreigners who have consecutively applied for a five-year work permit twice in Shanghai will be able to apply a third time.