Updates from China's National Immigration Administration

China's National Immigration Administration celebrated its first birthday on April 2, 2019.

Over the past year, the National Immigration Management System has taken the initiative to serve the country's economic and social development.

10 major reform measures have been introduced and significant progress has been made in the reform of immigration management.

Among them, there are 4 reforms relevant to expats in China.

A visa-free policy for inbound tourism from 59 countries to support the development of the Hainan free trade zone. 

A 144-hour transit visa exemption for foreigners in five cities including Xiamen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chengdu, and Kunming. 

Simplified entry and exit procedures for cruise ships and passengers. These measures have injected new momentum into high-quality economic development. In the past year, 8.87 million visa-free arrivals were made which is an increase of 9.6% for the year.

Click to know more: New Visa Policy to Be Implemented Jan 1st, 2019!

A new reform improving the examination and approval system for permanent residence for foreigners.

It conscientiously implements the state policies and regulations on further strengthening the administration of services for permanent residence of aliens, takes the initiative to provide publicity and referral services, optimizes application conditions, shortens the examination and approval period, and speeds up the process of obtaining permits. All this to facilitate the residence of foreigners who wish to work, study, and live in China for a long period of time.

In the past year, the number of applications for permanent resident identity cards approved for foreigners has increased significantly, more than in the previous three years combined.

New progress was made in the management of foreigners who entered, stayed, or employed illegally in China.

By establishing a governance mechanism in accordance with the law and strengthening the administration of frontier ports to punish illegal and criminal activities, the percentage decreased greatly.

Set up a professional immigration service center.

In order to better serve the new pattern of comprehensive opening up, actively building an immigration service system in line with economic and social development and establishing an immigration service center. 

This will protect the lawful rights and interests of foreigners in accordance with the law.

By coordinating the handling of infringement cases, providing emergency response, legal assistance, residence, and travel, language, culture and other social integration services for foreigners in China, the country is creating a new vision for people living and working. 

There ultimate vision is to live and work in peace and harmony where everyone can coexist.

Within two months of establishing the new immigration administration, more than 1,8000 foreigners have been granted permanent residence in China.

Photo credit: 牛蕾

Source: National Immigration Administration

Editor: Crystal Huang

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