The Implementation Rules for the "Beijing Social Security Card Management Measures" was recently released and will take effect on January 1, 2026. Beijing will no longer issue first- or second-generation social security cards. All first-time applicants will receive the third-generation social security cards.

The third-generation social security card incorporates national cryptographic algorithms and contactless technology. Building on existing functions such as healthcare services, medication purchases, and self-service inquiries, the third-generation card can also be used as an identity credential for handling services in the human resources and social security sectors. In addition, it integrates services for public transportation, annual park passes, and financial transactions.

According to the implementation rules, after receiving a social security card, residents can activate its transportation feature (i.e., for self-paid rides on buses, subways, etc.) by topping it up through any of the following channels: designated bank outlets, self-operated service points of Yikatong (Beijing Municipal Administration and Communication Card), or the Beijing Yikatong App. The usage scope, time limits, and rules for the transportation function of the social security card are consistent with those of the Yikatong Card.

Eligible cardholders may purchase annual park passes at park ticketing service points throughout the city or at designated cooperative bank outlets, and use the card for park visits. The usage scope, time limits, and rules for the park visit function of the social security card are consistent with those of the physical annual park passes in Beijing.

Under the guidance of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China and the People's Government of Beijing Municipality, commercial banks with extensive service networks in the city have been engaged to provide social security card services. The number of social security card service points has increased from over 300 to nearly 4,000. Additionally, more instant card issuance points have been opened, allowing cardholders to apply for new cards or replace/renew their existing cards at nearby bank outlets in charge of issuing the cards.

Effective January 1, 2026, Beijing will no longer issue the first- or second-generation cards. For first-time applicants, only the third-generation social security cards will be issued. Current holders of first- or second-generation cards who apply for replacement or renewal can obtain the third-generation cards through online channels or designated bank outlets. The original first- or second-generation card will become invalid upon the activation of the new card. If cardholders do not replace or activate the third-generation card, the original first- or second-generation card will remain valid indefinitely.

(Source: Beijing Daily)