Since December 1, the Foreigner's Work Permits and the Social Security Cards have been integrated, which means that the information of each Foreigner's Work Permit has been included in the corresponding Social Security Card, making it more convenient for foreigners working and living in China. Both the physical and electronic versions of the Social Security Cards now have this new feature.
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)
