1. Shanghai – Lowered Salary Threshold for Permanent Residency Eligibility
Beginning in 2025, foreign nationals seeking employment-based permanent residency in Shanghai must demonstrate an annual salary of no less than RMB 880,000 and pay corresponding taxes at a rate of 20%, equating to a minimum annual tax contribution of RMB 176,000. These requirements must be met consistently for four consecutive years.
However, under the new policy update, the salary threshold has been reduced: applicants now only need to earn at least RMB 800,000 annually and maintain the same 20% tax ratio for four years to qualify for the same status.
2. Zhejiang – Dual Registration Required for Zhejiang Companies Hiring Foreign Talent
Companies located in Hangzhou and Jinhua, Zhejiang Province, that wish to employ foreign nationals must complete dual registration procedures.
In addition to filing with the Foreign Expert Bureau, they are now required to designate a representative to register the company at the local entry-exit administration bureau.
3. More Flexibility in Choosing Chinese Consulates for Z Visa Applications
For foreign nationals applying for a Z visa from outside China, the earlier system required applicants to pre-select the consulate through which they would apply, and only that consulate could process the application.
The latest update allows greater flexibility: after receiving the Notification Letter of Work Permit, applicants may now choose the most convenient Chinese consulate, regardless of initial selection, to submit their Z visa application.
4. Cancellation of Student Residence Permits Required Before Employment-Based Applications
International students who have secured employment in China post-graduation must cancel their student residence permit before applying for a work visa.
This process must be completed in the city where the student visa was originally issued. A direct conversion from a student to a work permit is not permissible.
5. Simplified Visa Process for Certain Pakistani Nationals
Pakistani nationals who have entered China on a business visa three or more times since 2016 are no longer required to provide an invitation verification letter.
They may apply for a business visa using only a standard invitation letter issued by a Chinese company, along with other necessary documentation.
