China has officially started to implement its own
"Green Card" system, which allows foreigners to apply for permanent residence in
China, the Ministry of Public Security said Friday.
Spokesman of the ministry Hao Chiyong announced at a
press conference here that Regulations on Examination and Approval of Permanent
Residence of Aliens in China has been approved by the State Council and is
effective from August 15.
Hao said issuance of the regulations "indicates the
official implementation of the 'Green Card' system in China".
"This is a significant move by the Chinese government
to adapt to economic globalization, push forward reform and opening-up and the
modernization of socialism still further, and normalize the regulation of
examination and approval of permanent residence of aliens in China," said Hao.
According to the regulations, eligibility for
permanent residence mainly applies to high-level foreign personnel who hold
posts in businesses which promote China's economic, scientific andtechnological
development or social progress, foreign citizens whomake relatively large direct
investment in China, foreigners who have made outstanding contributions or are
of special importance to China, and foreigners who come to China to be with
their families.
The regulations provide that there is no limitation
on the period of stay of aliens with permanent resident status in China, and
they need not obtain visas and can enter and leave the countrywith their valid
passport and Alien Permanent Residence Permits.
The Alien Permanent Residence Permits are valid for
five or tenyears. Certificates with five-year validity are granted to
minors,while certificates with ten-year validity are granted to adults.
Hao said the regulations are aimed at meeting China's
demand for high-level foreign personnel and foreigners' aspiration for permanent
residence in China and more freedom in entering and leaving China.
The Chinese government has already published a series
of laws and regulations on alien's entry and exit, and long-term and permanent
residence in China.
Since the implementation of a law on control of the
entry and exit of aliens in 1985 and the law's enforcement regulations in 1994,
China has approved permanent residence for over 3,000 foreigners, said Hao.
