The central government’s latest leisure of green card regulations indicates that demand for international talent is growing on the continent.
Under the directive issued by the State Council on Thursday, foreigners working in additional areas will probably be entitled to everlasting residence.
“China has focused on attracting foreign capital over the past three many years, and in the subsequent three many years it should shift toward foreign talent,” said Wang Huiyao, director of the Center for China and Globalization, a Beijing-based think tank.
Until June last yr, only foreigners who worked in government departments or laboratories involved in “key national projects” could apply for everlasting residence. This rule was then relaxed to incorporate researchers from more institutes, including those benefiting from international funding.
President Xi Jinping said at a gathering in Beijing on February 6 that China should reform its everlasting residence system. On the identical day, the Ministry of Public Security reported that 1,576 foreigners were everlasting residents of mainland China last yr, up 163 percent from 2015. According to Xinhua, the campaign had recruited about 5,200 people by September last yr.
According to the central government, green card holders receive the identical rights as Chinese residents in areas resembling investment, housing and education, and the cards can be used as a type of identification when purchasing a train ticket or booking a hotel room. Cards should be renewed every 10 years, but there is frequently no need to supply additional documentation.
Simon Lance, managing director of international recruitment firm Hays in China, said there was still a shortage of qualified candidates within the mainland labor market, especially at mid- and senior-level positions.
The company’s latest Asia Salary Guide, based on data from greater than 3,000 employers across the region, suggests that in underserved areas, 65 percent of employers would consider hiring an expatriate.
“Therefore, the statement by the State Council and the Central Committee of the Communist Party is very encouraging,” Lance said.
Source: South China Morning Post
