Here are some key updates and aspects regarding immigration to the People’s Republic of China:

1. Increase in Immigration since the Late 1970s: Immigration to China has increased modestly since the late 1970s, especially with the opening up of the country and the liberalization of the economy. Many of the immigrants are ethnic Chinese, and there has also been a significant influx of foreigners, particularly to large cities and Hong Kong.
2. Legal Immigration and Permanent Residency: China has been issuing permanent residency cards, albeit in much smaller numbers compared to countries like the United States. The issuance of permanent residency cards increased in 2016, and by 2017, the number of foreigners holding Chinese Permanent Residence passed the 10,000 mark.
3. Introduction of the Five-Star Card: In 2023, China launched the Five-Star Card, which is the new version of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People’s Republic of China. This indicates a continued effort to refine and update immigration policies and documentation.
4. Application Requirements for Permanent Residency: The Management Measures for the Permanent Residence Approval of Foreigners in China outline various conditions for foreigners applying for permanent residency. These include criteria related to investment, employment, academic qualifications, contributions to China, and family ties.
5. Hainan Free Trade Zone Immigration Preferential Policies: In July 2019, China announced updated preferential immigration policies for the Hainan Province (Hainan Free Trade Zone), aimed at facilitating employment, entrepreneurship, and permanent residency for foreign individuals. These policies include provisions for foreign university students, foreign workers with advanced degrees, and foreign investors in innovative enterprises.
6. Return of Overseas Chinese: China has seen significant immigration by Overseas Chinese, who have been offered various incentives to return to their homeland since 1949. Additionally, there was a notable influx of ethnic Chinese refugees from Vietnam in 1978–79, with many settled in Hainan Island.
7. Illegal Immigration: China has experienced illegal immigration, particularly along its borders with North Korea and Myanmar. North Koreans often flee to China seeking higher wages and escaping repression, while African migrants, primarily from West Africa, have settled in cities like Guangzhou. Guangzhou has seen controversy due to overstayed visas and allegations of crimes by some members of the African migrant community.

These updates provide insights into China’s immigration policies, including efforts to attract skilled individuals, streamline permanent residency processes, and manage illegal immigration.

Legal immigration and permanent residency

Legal immigration and permanent residency in China are governed by specific regulations and criteria outlined by the Chinese government. Here’s an overview of the legal immigration and permanent residency processes in China:

Legal Immigration:

1. Visa Categories: China offers various visa categories for individuals seeking to enter the country legally. These include tourist visas (L), business visas (M), student visas (X), work visas (Z), and family reunion visas (Q).
2. Application Process: Individuals wishing to immigrate to China typically need to apply for the appropriate visa category through a Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country. The application process usually involves providing documentation such as a passport, visa application form, proof of sufficient funds, and other supporting documents depending on the visa type.
3. Visa Extensions and Renewals: Depending on the visa category, individuals may be able to extend or renew their visas while in China. Extensions are typically granted for specific purposes such as work, study, or family reunion, and require the submission of additional documentation.

Permanent Residency:

1. Chinese Green Card: China’s permanent residence permit, often referred to as the “Chinese Green Card,” allows foreign nationals to reside in China indefinitely. However, obtaining a Chinese Green Card is notoriously difficult, and the number of permits issued is relatively low compared to other countries.
2. Application Eligibility: Foreigners applying for permanent residency in China must meet specific criteria outlined by the Chinese government. These criteria often include factors such as investment in China, employment in high-level positions, academic qualifications, contributions to China’s development, or family ties to Chinese citizens or permanent residents.
3. Application Process: The application process for a Chinese Green Card involves submitting an application to the relevant authorities, typically the Ministry of Public Security or the Public Security Bureau. Applicants are required to provide extensive documentation to support their eligibility, including evidence of their qualifications, contributions, financial status, and other relevant information.
4. Approval Process: Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a thorough review process by the authorities. The approval process can be lengthy and may involve background checks, interviews, and other assessments to determine the applicant’s suitability for permanent residency.
5. Benefits of Permanent Residency: Holders of the Chinese Green Card enjoy various benefits, including the right to reside and work in China indefinitely, access to certain social services, and simplified visa and entry procedures for travel to and from China.

The Immigration Policy of China outlines the regulations and procedures governing the entry, residence, and integration of foreign nationals into the country.

Shaped by economic, social, and political considerations, China’s immigration policies aim to attract skilled workers, investors, and individuals who contribute to its development while also managing issues related to border control, national security, and international obligations.

With a focus on talent recruitment, permanent residency, and border management, China’s immigration policy reflects its evolving role in the global community and its aspirations for sustainable growth and prosperity.