This year, the official international web portal of the People's Government of Beijing Municipality has been keenly attentive to the diverse needs of expats in Beijing, encompassing aspects such as investing, working, living and travelling. It has, in due course, released and updated service guides, policy documents and information related to services for expats in Beijing and foreign nationals interested in Beijing's development. Furthermore, it has invited expats to symposiums to express their needs and concerns regarding conducting affairs in the city, and actively addressed messages received in the Feedback section, assisting expats in resolving practical issues.
This article has outlined the top ten most requested services of concern to expats in Beijing in 2023. Take a moment to check out which ones are closely relevant to you.
1. How Beijing Videos: Guide to Life in Beijing
In these videos some expats in Beijing explain how they navigate life in Beijing. This includes guidance on using public transportation, setting up broadband, obtaining phone cards, and handling practical matters like gas, water and electricity bill payments. Stay tuned for additional service guide videos coming soon.
2. 'BeijingService': Clear, Up-to-date and User-friendly Digital Government Services for You
"BeijingService", the official WeChat account of the international web portal of the People's Government of Beijing Municipality, was officially launched in September 2023. With a diverse range of engaging content, it aims to provide foreign-funded enterprises and expats with streamlined, up-to-date and user-friendly digital government services. Scan the QR code in the image to follow now.
3. New Version of Medical Certificate of Birth Now Available!
The seventh edition of the Medical Certificate of Birth issued by the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China is now effective. Click to find out more about it.
4. Look up Latest Investment Policies in 'Policy and Service Packages'!
[Photo via VCG]
What are the supporting policies of Beijing at the municipal and district levels in such areas as industrial development, financial incentives, land use guarantee, talent settlement, and enterprise services? The support policy and service packages for attracting investment in Beijing can give you the answers.
5. Government Services Streamlined! Processing Time for Expats' 'Two Permits' Shortened to Five Days
[Photo via VCG]
The latest upgrade of the "two permits" joint processing service has further reduced the processing time to five working days. This service, available at 15 designated "two permits" service windows across the city, facilitates the recruitment and employment of foreign talent by local employers in Beijing.
6. Attracting Talent Receives a 'New' Boost as Talent Policies Get an Upgrade
[Photo via VCG]
Beijing has issued the Foreign Vocational Qualifications Approval Catalog of Beijing (Version 3.0) and the Catalog of Human Resources Development for the National Comprehensive Demonstration Zone for Further Opening Up in the Services Sector and the China (Beijing) Pilot Free Trade Zone (2023 Edition). These releases further advance high-standard opening up, attract outstanding talent to engage in innovation and start businesses in Beijing, and promote the high-quality development of the capital.
7. Seamless Travel: Expansion of the 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit 'Circle of Friends'
The scope of China's 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy has expanded to 54 countries. Citizens of these 54 countries, holding valid international travel documents and connecting flight tickets with confirmed dates and seats to a third country (region), are eligible for visa-free transit within designated areas for up to 72 or 144 hours. During their stay, they may engage in short-term activities such as travels and temporary business visits. Click to find out which countries are included.
8. New Version of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
[Photo via NIA]
The new version of the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People's Republic of China has been officially issued and put into use. This updated ID card is referred to as the "Five-Star Card" due to the inclusion of elements symbolizing the nation. Interested in learning about the differences between the new and old versions of the card? Click to watch the video and find out.
The Beijing Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau has, for the first time, formulated and released Chinese and English editions of the Labor Contract Template for Foreign Employees in Beijing. Click here to download it.
10. Check out Beijing Travel Guide to Enjoy Your Leisure Time in Capital!
[Photo via VCG]
If you want to appreciate flowers in spring, visit famous gardens in summer, admire red leaves in autumn, have fun with ice and snow in winter, and explore Beijing in all seasons, or don't want to miss out the city's internet-famous sites and charming cycling routes, please click and save these recommended lists. Wish you a happy stay in Beijing!