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New China Visa Policies Updated in February, 2024

1. Wenzhou – Work Visa and Permanent Residency Applications

It’s now mandatory for most application documents, including work contracts and application forms, to have a seal that straddles the edge of the papers (known as a ‘straddle seal’).

2. Suzhou – Work Visa Change

Contrary to some beliefs, there’s no shortcut in changing work visas in Suzhou. Applicants must resubmit complete documentation, including criminal background checks, medical examinations, and proof of work experience.

3. Shanghai – Domestic University Degree Notarization

For notarization at the Dongfang Notary Office in Shanghai, both the diploma and degree certificate are required. However, if relevant information is verifiable on the university’s official website, the notarization process might be feasible without them.

4. Shanghai – Permanent Residence Card Application

Applicants, especially those under 14, are required to submit photographs. Since the Xuelin Road office in Shanghai lacks staff assistance for taking photos, it’s advisable to get them taken at local entry-exit subdivision offices, considering younger applicants may find it challenging to stay still for photographs.

5. Shanghai – Employment-Based Permanent Residence

For applicants who have paid taxes for four years, with the first three years outside Shanghai and the last year in Shanghai, and have an annual salary of at least 880,000 RMB for each of these years, they are eligible to apply for permanent residence.

6. Chongqing – Work Visa Cancellation

The cancellation process is lengthy, involving preliminary review and acceptance. It can’t be completed entirely online and requires a three-day wait for the cancellation stamp.

7. Tax Compliance: Scope of Business Operations

The primary business activity listed is considered the default for tax purposes. Companies must confirm whether their operations align with goods sales or consulting services. If there is a discrepancy, tax authorities should be consulted to add the appropriate tax category.

8. Investor Category Work Visa

Applicants over 65 years old in this category must obtain insurance as part of their application process.

Meanwhile, please note that not every city supports investor-category work visa.

9. Newborn Visa Applications

Parents must apply for a new visa for their newborn within one month of birth. Failure to do so necessitates a visit to the Overstay Residence Office for review.

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