According to Beijing Public Security authorities, at present, a total of 156 foreigners from 20 countries hold either certificates of resettlement or permanent residence, and are living and working in the Chinese capital.

This time, all they need to do is simply change from the old documents to the new unified green cards for a fee of 300 Yuan, or $36 dollars. And any foreigners, as long as they meet the requirements of the new permanent residence scheme, can apply for the "green card." The cost is 1,500 Yuan, or a about $180 dollars.

Speaking in Chinese, long-time Beijing resident Dr. Ma Chengli from the China American Chamber of Commerce says he welcomes the move:

"This is a significant move by the Chinese Government to adapt to economic globalization and push forward reform and opening-up still further. With the new Green Card, foreigners no longer need to obtain visas and can enter and leave the country with their valid passport. And foreigners can change their jobs and living places freely during their stay in China without going through any examination and approval."

In East China's Shanghai, GM China CFO John Kett has this to say:

Meanwhile, authorities say China is not a migration-targeted country and the new regulations are aimed at attracting high-level foreign personnel. Eligibility for permanent residence mainly applies to four categories of people. These are high-level foreign personnel who hold posts in businesses which promote China's economic, scientific and technological development or social progress; foreign citizens who make relatively large direct investment in China; foreigners who have made outstanding contributions or are of special importance to China; as well as foreigners who come to China to be with their families.

Public security authorities will make the decision on each application within six months.