Upon hearing that China was to institute a "green card" system, my instant response was, "I want one!" What does the green card application process involve?
Q: I hold an extendable Foreigners' Residential Card, which works fine for working and traveling within the PRC, but if I need to go outside of China, I must go through the complex and vexatious process of applying for a re-entry visa. Upon hearing that China was to institute a "green card" system, my instant response was, "I want one!" What does the green card application process involve?
A: China would certainly seem more like home if you could obtain this permanent resident status. We learned from the Exit and Entry Management Section of the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau that in the capital alone, more than 2,000 foreigners have applied for green cards since the issuance of Regulations on Examination and Approval of Permanent Residence of Aliens in China last August. The implementation of the green card system not only offers you the same rights and obligations as a native Chinese resident, but is also viewed as a means of deeper integration into Chinese life and culture.
We can only provide you with the standard process, so it is best to speak to the bureau if you need more details.
In most cases, high-level foreign personnel who hold posts in businesses, which promote China's economic, scientific and technological development or social progress, are able to apply. In addition, foreign citizens who make large, direct investments in China; persons who have made outstanding contributions or are of special importance to China; and persons who have come to China to be with family, dependent minors, and senior citizens dependent on their relatives are also able to apply for green cards.
If the above applies to you, you need to submit an application to the Public Security Bureau (PSB) of the People's Government at the city level, branch office, or county office which is in charge of the community of your major investment or long-term residence. After the PSB receives the application, they will investigate and verify the conditions of the applicant according to the specified prerequisites, and submit the application to the Ministry of Public Security for examination and approval. You should find out whether your application is successful after six months.
Currently, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanjing, Wuhan, Chongqing are able to issue green cards.
Good luck!
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