中国向高端人才提供十年期人才签证

The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Security of China released the Implementation Rules of the Foreign Talent Visa in November 2017, aiming to specify the talent visa (the “R Visa”) application policy and to attract high end talents to start an undertaking or work in China.

Eligibility of R Visa Applicant

In principle, an R Visa is issued to those who are high-end talents or whose skills are urgently needed in China. Specifically, an applicant of R Visa shall meet the criterion of A grade under the Classification Criteria for Foreigners Working in China. Generally, an applicant may opt for either Criteria-match Method or the Point Accumulation Method to determine if he or she meets the criterion of A grade.

Application Procedures of R Visa

(1)   The Chinese employer or the local entity who invites the talent shall apply to the local authority for a Confirmation Letter of Foreign High-End Talent;

(2)   With the issued Confirmation Letter, the talent may apply to a Chinese embassy or consulate for an R Visa;

(3)   The talent with an R Visa may apply for the work permit and residence permit in China for his/her working in China when necessary.

Benefits enjoyed by a R Visa Holder

(1)   The R Visa is generally of a valid period up to 10 years, with multiple entries with up to 180 days per entry.

 (2)   An R Visa holder or qualified applicant can enjoy the privileges during the application processes of visa, work permit and residence permit, such as expedited processing period, simplified process and no hard-copy documents submission.

Please be noted that depending on the local practice of different provinces in China, the eligibility of R Visa applicant, the application procedures and the relevant benefit could vary. Based on our experience, some provinces have detailed guidelines on the R Visa application. Please email Kevin Xu at kevin.xu@mhplawyer.com or Sean Liu at sean.liu@mhplawyer.com for more information and advices.