China Daily:

Just now, Mr. Liu mentioned that the NIA has facilitated, coordinated and served the introduction of a large number of international talents in various fields such as science, education, culture, health and sports. Could you provide more details on the outcomes achieved so far and outline the future plans in this respect? Thank you.

Liu Jia:

Thank you for your question. General Secretary Xi Jinping pointed out that "to develop our cause well, it is essential to select the best minds of the world." In recent years, based on China's national conditions and the needs of high-quality economic and social development, the NIA has systematically optimized and improved visa, residence, permanent residence, naturalization and other policies and measures, providing strong support and guarantees for international professionals living and working in China.

First, we aim to attract and retain more talent. We have relaxed visa regulations, allowing eligible foreigners to obtain multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years at Chinese embassies and consulates abroad. For those unable to secure visas before arrival, entry visas can be issued at ports of entry. In cases where legitimate reasons necessitate frequent international travel, we offer facilities to issue or renew multiple-entry visas. Notably, professionals invited to engage in technical collaborations, economic and trade activities at leading Chinese universities, research institutions and renowned companies, as well as high-level talents and their teams working in China, are eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for two to five years.

Second, we aim to ensure a secure and supportive environment for talent. To facilitate this, we have streamlined and simplified the procedures for international talents working and living in China. In collaboration with relevant departments, we have implemented a "one-stop" service for foreigners applying for work permits and work-type residence permits that allows for simultaneous applications, approvals and issuances. We support leading domestic universities, research institutions and large enterprises in their efforts to recruit international talents. Additionally, those transferred within their organizations across regional boundaries are exempt from the need to reapply for residence permits. Qualified high-level foreign professionals are allowed to hold concurrent positions for innovative and entrepreneurial activities upon registration. Furthermore, we have actively engaged with employers, carefully aligning talent supply with demand, establishing linkage mechanisms and consistently devising strategies to help organizations attract and retain talent.

Finally, we aim to improve the living standards of international talents residing in China. We have issued a new version of the foreign permanent resident ID card, known as the "five-star card," and promoted convenient social applications. We have launched the China Immigration Service Hotline 12367 that provides 24/7 service worldwide, and launched the NIA website covering the six official languages of the United Nations. We have also promoted the construction of immigration service centers and sites, which have greatly improved the quality of life for international talent in China.

Next, we will implement the plan set forth by the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee to "explore avenues for establishing an immigration system for highly-skilled personnel." We will actively collaborate with relevant departments to enhance policy research and refine system design, with the aim of providing highly-skilled personnel working and living in China with more comprehensive, convenient and efficient immigration management policies. Thank you.