Since December 1, China has integrated the functions of foreigners’ work permits and social security cards to make it more convenient for foreigners working and living in the country. The information of each foreigner's work permit has been included in the corresponding social security card, available in both physical and electronic versions.
Streamlined Procedures
1. Issuance of Work Permits
Applications for work permits, as well as for their extensions, changes, and cancellations are now fully processed online through the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (外国人来华工作管理服务系统). Foreign nationals will no longer need to obtain physical work permits after entering China and those who have already owned a physical one are not required to apply for the new version. The integration procedure shall apply until an extension or modification of the permit is needed.
2. Issuance of Work Visas
Every foreign national with the Notification Letter for Foreigner’s Work Permit can apply for a Z visa for working in China.
3. Obtaining an Electronic Social Security Card
After entering China, foreigners can download the "Electronic Social Security Card" (电子社保卡) application on a smartphone and create a new account with information including name, work permit number, and social security number. After login as well as identity and real-person verification, an electronic social security card containing work permit information will be issued.
Holders of physical social security cards may also access corresponding services through an electronic one.
4. Residence Permit Application
After entering China with a Z visa, foreign nationals can apply for a residence permit at the local public security entry-exit administration department in their place of work. To do so, they must present the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit or the electronic social security card containing their work permit information. Authorities concerned can directly verify the information through their systems, by checking the electronic Social Security Card, or by scanning the work permit QR code.
Provision of Convenient Services
1. Social Insurance
Employers of foreign nationals, or the foreign nationals themselves, can use the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit or the electronic social security card to access social insurance. This can be done via the online social security service portal or at social security agencies.
Social security agencies shall verify work permit information through the Service System for Foreigners Working in China and issue social security numbers to eligible foreigners. The departments responsible for social security card management and service will distribute the physical cards.
2. Work Permit Services
Through the electronic social security card, foreign nationals can access services such as work permit information queries, downloads, QR code verification, and notifications related to their work permits.
3."One-Card" Services
Local human resources and social security departments provide foreign nationals with services such as business information inquiries and benefits collection through both physical and electronic social security cards based on local realities. Additional "One-Card" services may be provided in areas with advanced capabilities.
(Source: Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of the People's Republic of China)
