2025
China’s Permanent Residence ID (commonly known as the "Chinese Green Card") is often called "the hardest green card in the world" due to its strict requirements, high thresholds, and low approval rates. Below are the four main application pathways—see which one fits your situation!
Four Ways
1
Who qualifies?
Winners of internationally recognized awards (e.g., Nobel Prize, Turing Award)
Senior executives of Fortune 500 companies or renowned researchers
High-demand experts in key industries (tech, finance, education, etc.)
Key requirements:
🔹 Recommendation letter from a national-level institution, provincial government, or major enterprise
🔹 Salary threshold: Annual income must be 6x the local average wage
(e.g., Beijing/Shanghai: ≥¥600,000/year)
🔹 Work experience: At least 4 consecutive years working in China, with 6+ months of residency per year
2
Who qualifies?
Foreign investors who establish businesses in China
Long-term executives of foreign-funded companies with stable tax records
Key requirements:
🔹 Minimum investment:
Encouraged industries: ≥$500,000 (~¥3.5M)
Non-encouraged industries: ≥$1,000,000 (~¥7M)
🔹 Business record: Company must be profitable for 3 consecutive years, with annual tax payments ≥¥300,000
🔹 Clean background: No criminal record; investment funds must be legally sourced
3
Who qualifies?
Spouses of Chinese citizens or existing green card holders
Minor children reuniting with Chinese parents
Elderly parents (60+ years old) with no dependents abroad
Key requirements:
🔹 Marriage duration: Must be married for 5+ years, living in China for 9+ months per year
🔹 Financial proof: Chinese spouse must show stable income (e.g., ≥¥10,000/month)
🔹 Housing requirement: Must have a fixed residence (owned or long-term rental)
4
Who qualifies?
Foreigners who have worked in China for 8+ consecutive years with good tax records
Recipients of provincial/national awards (e.g., "Friendship Award")
Those with outstanding contributions in charity, culture, or education
Key requirements:
🔹 Work history: Must provide 8 years of employment contracts & tax records
🔹 Government endorsement: Requires a recommendation letter from provincial or national authorities
🔹 Clean record: No legal or financial violations in China
Too Difficult?
Here’s an Easier
Way to Stay Long-Term!
HACOS always strive to provide our clients with more high-quality, efficient and considerate services, covering China visas, tax-planning, incorporation, financial consulting, global shipping, intellectual property, foreign trade services, legal consultation, etc.
