High-level workers in the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone and Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone who qualify will be recommended by the administrations of the zones for permanent residency.
Investment companies, regional company headquarters, and research and design centers registered in the two zones will also be able to recruit new graduates from world-class universities to work in Shanghai.
"It will encourage employers to fill positions with better-fitting talent, especially those international students who may add value and fresh thoughts, to compete with local talent in the Chinese job market," said Pete Chia, managing director of BRecruit China, a recruitment service provider in Asia.
Sadik Senturk, a 32-year-old Turkish project manager at a consulting company in Shanghai, said: "I will apply for a green card for the sake of my son, who just turned 2 years old and will be enrolled in the education system like a local child.
"I hope the lower requirements for permanent residence and expanded benefits will narrow the gap between green card holders and local residents."
Senturk is also applying for a residence permit based on talent.
Highlights of the trial program
1. One work permit replaces the current two to save time for skilled expats.
2. Five-year work permit is issued to expats who have obtained a work permit at least twice in the past.
3. Permanent resident permit holder is eligible to acquire an overseas talent residence permit directly.
4. Foreign-related companies registered in the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone and Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone can recruit new graduates from world-class universities to work in Shanghai.
5. International students can apply to work at startup businesses in Shanghai after graduation.
6. Other benefits of the overseas talent resident permit include a property tax exemption.
7. Enterprises related to scientific research with outstanding performance are encouraged to recruit postdoctoral researchers independently overseas.
8. Human resources companies in China will be encouraged to set up overseas offices to share resources and connections with their foreign counterparts and encourage talent mobility.
