How to Fill Out the Application Forms for Permanent Residence

For expats in China, obtaining permanent residence status (the “Chinese Green Card”) represents a significant milestone.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the application process with precise form instructions, recent policy updates, and expert tips to maximize your chances of approval.

Understanding China’s Permanent Residence System

China’s permanent residence system underwent major reforms with the 2020 regulations and subsequent 2023 updates, making the process more accessible while maintaining strict eligibility requirements.

Recent Policy Updates

Year	Policy Change	Impact
2020	Regulations on Permanent Residence of Foreigners	Expanded eligibility categories and streamlined application process
2023	Implementation Rules Update	Clarified documentation requirements and processing procedures
2024	Regional Pilot Programs	Special pathways in Shanghai, Beijing, and Greater Bay Area

Eligibility Pathways

The National Immigration Administration (NIA) outlines these primary eligibility categories:

High-level talent – Internationally recognized experts or specialists needed by China
Investment-based – Significant direct investment in China (minimum ¥10 million)
Family reunion – Spouses of Chinese citizens or permanent residents (after 5 years of marriage)
Employment-based – Senior professionals with 4+ years working in China
Special contribution – Individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to China

For detailed eligibility criteria, visit the National Immigration Administration website.

Required Application Forms

Unlike the vague descriptions in many guides, here are the specific forms you’ll need:

Form Code	Official Name	Purpose
QW-01	《外国人在中国永久居留申请表》	Main permanent residence application form
QW-02	《外国人永久居留资格审批表》	Qualification verification form
JW-03	《外国人体格检查记录》	Health examination certification form
BG-05	《外国人居留许可申请表》	Supplementary residence information

All forms are available at the Exit-Entry Administration Bureaux.

Document Requirements

Core Documents

Passport (original + copy) with at least 6 months validity
Current residence permit (original + copy)
2″ biometric photos (white background, taken within 6 months)
Health examination certificate from designated medical institutions

Pathway-Specific Documents

For employment-based applications:

Employment contract (*)
Work permit (original + copy)
Tax payment records for the past 4 consecutive years
Social insurance payment records (*)
Proof of professional qualifications (*)

(*): Required in some lower-tier cities so double check with the local exit-entry bureau.

For family reunion applications:

Marriage certificate (authenticated and translated)
Chinese spouse’s hukou and ID card (original + copy)
Proof of cohabitation
Joint financial records

All non-Chinese documents require certified Chinese translations from authorized translation agencies.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Form Completion Guidelines

When completing form QW-01 (《外国人在中国永久居留申请表》):

Use black ink pen
Complete in Chinese or English (Chinese preferred)
Sign with your standard signature as shown in your passport
Leave no fields blank (write “N/A” if not applicable)
Use YYYY-MM-DD format for all dates
Include city and country for all address fields

2. Biometric Requirements

All applicants must provide biometric data:

Fingerprints (all 10 fingers) [*]
Digital photograph
Signature verification

This is completed in-person at the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau during submission.

[*]: Required in some lower-tier cities so double check with the local exit-entry bureau.

3. Application Submission

Applications must be submitted in person at the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau in your city of residence.

4. Application Fees

Application Type	Fee (CNY)	Processing Time
Standard Processing	¥1,500	6-9 months
High-talent Track	¥1,500	3-6 months
Family Reunion	¥1,500	6-12 months

Fees must be paid cash.

5. Application Tracking

Track your application status using your receipt number through:

WeChat Mini Program: “国家移民管理局”
Hotline: 12367

Regional Variations

Application requirements vary significantly by region:

City/Region	Special Requirements	Processing Time
Shanghai	Additional financial stability proof	4-8 months
Beijing	Higher income thresholds	6-10 months
Greater Bay Area	Simplified process for tech professionals	3-6 months
Tier 2/3 Cities	Additional local contribution evidence	8-12 months

Check your local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau for region-specific requirements.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

Inconsistent information: Ensure all dates and details match across all documents
Insufficient documentation: Include supplementary evidence beyond minimum requirements
Improper translations: Use only certified translation services
Missing authentication: Verify all foreign documents through proper diplomatic channels
Outdated forms: Download forms directly from official websites immediately before application