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New China Visa Policies Updated in March 2025

1. Shanghai – Work Visa Extension Requires Tax Records

For those applying for a work visa extension in Shanghai’s Jing’an District under the 60-point system, submitting personal income tax payment records has become a mandatory requirement. This documentation will be essential for the renewal process.

2. Shanghai – Fresh Graduates from Non-Shanghai 985 Universities Can Apply for Category C Work Visa

Non-Shanghai-based 985 university graduates without work experience can now apply for a Category C work visa in Shanghai.

Eligibility Criteria for Fresh Graduates (Within Two Years of Graduation):

Previous Policy: Only fresh graduates from Shanghai-based universities with an average grade of 80 or above were eligible for the Category C domestic work visa. Additionally, the hiring company needed to meet specific requirements.

Updated Policy: Fresh graduates from 985 universities across China are now eligible under the same conditions as Shanghai-based graduates applying for a Category C work visa.

3. Kunshan – Work Visa Change Process with an Expiring Passport

When applying for a work visa change in Kunshan, if the passport is valid for less than six months and the visa is nearing expiration, the company representative can first communicate with the Foreign Experts Bureau. They can submit the work permit application before obtaining a certificate from the Bureau to proceed with a stay visa extension at the Exit-Entry Administration.

4. Hangzhou – Direct Transition from Student Visa to Work Visa

Foreign applicants holding a student visa who find employment in Hangzhou can now directly convert their student visa into a work visa without exiting China.

Previously, only foreign applicants holding a family reunion visa were eligible for this domestic transition. This update significantly simplifies the process for international graduates seeking employment in Hangzhou.

5. Nantong – Transition from Stay Visa to Work Visa

Applicants currently holding a stay visa issued by a non-Nantong exit-entry administration can apply for a work permit and residence permit in Nantong.

Example:

Jim initially worked in Beijing and found a new job in Nantong. After canceling his Beijing work visa, he obtained a stay visa issued by the Beijing exit-entry administration. Under the new policy, he can directly use his Beijing-issued stay visa to complete the work visa application process in Nantong.

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