Streamlined Service 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. If you already have a physical work permit, the "No  Change, No Replacement" principle would apply. Only when you apply for  an extension or modification of your permit will the relevant procedures  be completed following the new standard integrating the Foreigner's  Work Permits and the Social Security Cards.

2. Issuance of Work Visas

Every foreign national with the Notification of Work Permit for Foreigners can apply for a Z visa for working in China.

3. Obtaining an Electronic Social Security Card

After  entering China, you can download the "Electronic Social Security  Card" (电子社保卡) App on your smart phone. Using your name, work permit  number, social security number or other supported identity information,  you can register an account and log in to the App. Once you pass  identity and real-person verification, you'll receive an electronic  Social Security Card that includes your work permit's information. 

Once  you have applied for a physical Social Security Card as a foreign  national, the electronic card will provide standard services tailored to  your needs.

4. Residence Permit Application

After  entering China with a Z visa, foreign nationals can go to the local  public security entry-exit administration department in their place of  work to apply for a residence permit. 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 can  directly verify the work permit information through the system or by  checking the electronic Social Security Card by scanning the work permit  QR code.

Provision of Convenient Services

1. Participating in 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 register for social insurance. This can be done via the  online social security service portal or at social security offices. 

Social  security agencies will verify work permit information through the  Foreigners' Work Management System. If you meet the eligibility  criteria, you will be issued a social security number, and the Social  Security Card management service department will provide you with a  physical Social Security Card.

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, based on local  conditions, provide foreign nationals with services such as business  information inquiries and benefits collection through both the physical  and the electronic Social Security Card. 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)