China’s Permanent Residence (PR), often referred to as the “China Green Card” or the new “Five-Star Card,” is a highly sought-after permit that grants foreign nationals the right to reside in China indefinitely.
Unlike work visas or temporary residence permits, the China Green Card provides long-term stability, easier entry and exit, and significant benefits in employment and investment.
However, gaining permanent residency in China remains selective, with strict eligibility criteria and relatively low approval rates.
This comprehensive guide outlines the current eligibility requirements and application process for expats considering permanent residence in China as of 2025.
1. Eligibility Criteria for China Permanent Residence
Foreign nationals who wish to obtain permanent residency in China must meet specific eligibility requirements, which generally fall into four primary categories:
1.1 Employment-Based PR (For Professionals and Executives)
Foreigners who have made significant contributions to China’s economic or social development can apply for permanent residency. This category includes:
| Position Level | Minimum Employment Period | Minimum Residence Requirement | Tax Compliance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Executives (deputy general manager or above) | 4 consecutive years | 3 years within 4-year period (minimum 6 months each year) | Good tax records required |
| Associate Senior Professional Titles | 4 consecutive years | 3 years within 4-year period (minimum 6 months each year) | Good tax records required |
As of February 2025, the salary requirement for obtaining permanent residence in Shanghai has been updated to:
- Annual Salary: No less than CNY 886,104 (increased from CNY 600,000)
- Tax Payment: Annual individual income tax (IIT) of at least CNY 177,221 (20% of salary)
Source: S.J. Grand Financial Advisory
1.2 Family-Based PR (For Spouses and Dependents)
Expats with close family ties to Chinese nationals or permanent residents can apply under the family reunification category:
| Relationship Type | Requirements | Residence Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Spouses of Chinese Nationals | Married for at least 5 years | 5+ years in China with minimum 9 months each year |
| Dependent Children | Under 18 and unmarried | N/A |
| Elderly Dependents | 60+ years old with no immediate family abroad | 5+ consecutive years with minimum 9 months each year |
Source: Ikky In China
1.3 Investment-Based PR
Foreign investors making substantial investments in China may qualify for permanent residency:
| Investment Amount | Region/Industry | Duration | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| US $500,000+ | Western regions or poverty alleviation counties | 3+ consecutive years | Good tax record |
| US $1 million+ | Central regions | 3+ consecutive years | Good tax record |
| US $2 million+ | Any region in China | 3+ consecutive years | Allows spouse and minor children to apply together |
Source: S.J. Grand Financial Advisory
1.4 Special Talent PR
China actively seeks foreign scientists, researchers, and industry experts whose work benefits the country’s technological or economic advancement:
- PhD Holders: Requirements significantly relaxed since 2023 with no work year or salary requirements in certain regions like Shenzhen
- High-end Talents: Meeting criteria for high-level foreign talents with recommendation from provincial or municipal government
- Recipients of national awards or recognition for outstanding contributions
Source: Ikky In China
2. Regional Variations in Immigration Policies
China’s immigration policies are not uniform across the country.
Different regions have implemented varying requirements to attract foreign talent:
2.1 Shenzhen’s Special Policies (2023-Present)
Shenzhen has implemented some of the most foreigner-friendly permanent residency policies:
- PhD Holders: No work year, salary, or tax requirements
- Overseas Chinese: Can apply after working for 4 consecutive years anywhere in China
- Salary Thresholds: 810,000 RMB annual salary and 162,000 RMB tax payment
2.2 Greater Bay Area Initiatives
The Greater Bay Area (including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Macau, and surrounding cities) offers:
- Streamlined application processes for high-skilled professionals
- Specialized immigration channels for tech entrepreneurs
- Preferential policies for graduates of top global universities
Source: Now Shenzhen
3. Application Process for Permanent Residence in China
The application process involves several carefully structured steps:
3.1 Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following essential documents:
- Completed application form (Form QW-01)
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Recent passport-sized photographs (2 inches × 1.5 inches with white background)
- Health certificate from an authorized Chinese hospital
- Criminal record check from your home country (authenticated and translated)
- Employment verification and tax payment records
- Category-specific documentation based on eligibility pathway
All foreign documents must be notarized, authenticated by the Chinese embassy in your home country, and translated into Chinese by an authorized translation service.
3.2 Application Submission and Review
Applications must be submitted to the local Public Security Bureau’s Exit-Entry Administration Department. The process typically includes:
- Scheduling an appointment
- Presenting original documents and photocopies
- Completing biometric data collection
- Paying the application fee (CNY 1,500)
- Waiting for review (approximately 6-12 months)
Source: Ikky In China
4. Benefits of Holding a China Green Card
Foreigners who obtain permanent residency in China enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Unlimited stay without visa renewals
- Multiple entry-exit privileges without restrictions
- Easier work authorization without the need for a work permit
- Greater investment and business opportunities
- Eligibility for social security benefits in certain cases
- Use of the new “Five-Star Card” for hotel check-ins, banking, travel bookings, and online purchases
5. Grounds for Revocation and Important Considerations
According to the National Immigration Administration, Permanent Residence status may be revoked under certain circumstances:
- Actions endangering China’s national security or interests
- Deportation ordered by a people’s court
- Obtaining permanent residence through fraudulent means
- Residing outside China for extended periods (less than three months each year or less than one year during a five-year period)
Source: Ikky In China
Conclusion
Obtaining permanent residence in China remains selective but achievable for expats who meet the criteria and prepare thoroughly.
Recent policy reforms have created more pathways for qualified applicants, particularly those with skills and resources valuable to China’s development goals.
For the most current and specific requirements, foreign nationals should consult with the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau or seek professional immigration assistance.
External Resources:
- National Immigration Administration of China – Official government website for immigration policies
- TravelChinaGuide: China Green Card Information – Comprehensive overview of the permanent residence permit
- China Migration Policy Updates – Latest policy changes and regional variations
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