China issues new version of Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card

The National Immigration Administration on Friday put into use a new version of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People's Republic of China. 　

On the same day, the first batch of 50 new cards was issued to qualified foreigners whose permanent residence applications had been approved, the NIA said. 　

These new cardholders come from over 20 countries including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France and Russia, and have made outstanding contributions to China's socio-economic development. 　

While maintaining the basic style of the current version, the new card adds five-starred elements symbolizing the Chinese national flag, and optimizes the layout. 　

The new card incorporates advanced anti-counterfeiting technology and upgrades the information storage and application management service access. 　

According to the NIA, the launch of the new card is a specific measure to serve the country's high-standard opening up and provide better services for foreign talents working and living in China. 　

"The whole process took less than 20 minutes. The 'Five-Star Card' has brought us great convenience in all aspects of our work, life and study in China," said a Pakistani applicant. "I think this policy of permanent residence for foreigners can respond to China's high-level opening up to the world and better serve overseas talents to study, live and work in China. I think we are now able to feel integrated into Chinese society."