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New China Visa Policies Updated in June 2026

1. Shanghai – Extensions for Class A Work Visas Under the 6-Times Salary Criterion

Existing Class A work visas approved under the 6-times salary threshold can be extended using the original standard, while new applications must meet updated benchmarks.

Work Visas that were previously successfully processed under the Class A “6-times average salary” criterion (an annual salary of 600,000 RMB) can continue to adhere to the original standard upon extension.

* Note: Any new applications for a Class A Work Visa must strictly comply with the latest salary standards enforced at the time of application.

2. Shanghai – Class A Work Permit Holders Can Directly Apply for the Shanghai Overseas Talent Residence Permit

Foreign experts holding a Class A Work Permit are eligible for the Shanghai Overseas Talent Residence Permit, unlocking comprehensive local rights and public services for themselves and their families.

Primary Permit: Valid for 1 to 5 years, or up to 10 years.

Dependent Permit: Family members are eligible to apply for accompanied dependent permits.

Permit holders are entitled to enjoy the following treatments and benefits in Shanghai:

  • Residence Permits and Work Permits
  • Enterprise establishment, and employment by administrative organs
  • Social Insurance and Housing Provident Fund
  • Children’s education, and housing security support
  • Talent development programs, professional qualification evaluation, examination, and registration
  • Customs clearance facilitation, settlement in Shanghai, and Permanent Residence
  • Financial services, vehicle registration and driving license processing, and license plate quota allocation
  • Government awards, commendations, and access to various government services

3. Procedures and Exceptions for Employment Changes

Job transitions generally require a complete visa reissue, but specific timelines and locations offer fast-track exemptions.

Standard Procedure

If an applicant is currently changing employers and about to join a new company, they are generally required to cancel their current Work Visa first. The new company must then apply for a new Work Visa. The applicant can only officially start their new job after the new visa is fully processed and completed.

Special Circumstances

Current Work Visa is about to expire: Is cancellation mandatory?

1. Intra-city Job Change (e.g., within Shanghai):

If the existing Work Visa expires automatically, and the application for the new visa is initiated within one month, the process can follow the “Work Visa Modification” procedure. In this case, the applicant is exempt from re-submitting documents such as the Non-Criminal Record, proof of academic qualifications, work experience certificates, and medical examination reports.

2. Inter-city Transfer (e.g., Shanghai to Guangzhou): Requirements vary across different cities.

  • If the Residence Permit remains valid, a direct modification can be processed.
  • If the Residence Permit has already expired, the applicant must follow the procedure for a new application, and all documentation must be re-submitted.
4.  Extension of China’s Unilateral Visa-Free Policy for Russia Until the End of 2027

To further facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and Russia, the Chinese side has decided to extend the unilateral visa-free policy for Russian citizens holding ordinary passports until December 31, 2027. The Russian side has simultaneously extended its visa-free arrangements for Chinese citizens.

Target Eligible People: Holders of ordinary Russian passports.

Duration of Stay: Not exceeding 30 days per single entry.

Permitted Purposes of Visit: Business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchanges and visits, and transit.

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