Seres Immigration
We help people and families who want to relocate to China, whether temporarily or on a more permanent basis, understand the qualifications and process for residing in China.
The thought process
A green card is a long-term move, not just forms. Safety, day-to-day costs, and how cities actually work matter as much as eligibility. When we talk with clients, these topics usually come up.
Safety
China is widely seen as one of the safest places to live. Good lighting, busy streets, and strong everyday norms makes going out at night here feel normal, not risky, while violent crimes are extremely rare in China.
Cost of living
Housing, eating out, and ordinary services are often noticeably cheaper than in Western Europe or North America, without skimping on quality. Meanwhile, public services and city life are built to be convenient. That matters when you are budgeting for years, not just a short visit.
Infrastructure
Fast trains, paying by phone, and reliable delivery services are part of normal life here. Less about wow, more about fewer small hassles each and every day. Solid internet and logistics mean errands and travel often take less effort than newcomers expect.
Planning ahead
Unlike the US or Canada, China is a young immigration destination: no unified code, no points calculator, no one-size checklist. Rules are applied locally and differ city to city — not a reason to worry, but a reason to plan early.
A young system
China only opened permanent residence to foreigners in 2004, and the system is still evolving — new pilots, revised thresholds, and policy updates arrive every year. What worked three years ago may not apply today.
Local practice
There is no single national checklist for a Chinese green card. Each city applies the rules its own way — income thresholds, documents, and practice differ across Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Hainan.
Timing
Most routes depend on records built over years — continuous residence, tax history, employment tenure — none of which can be backfilled when you apply. Planning early keeps every option open, even before you've decided to move.
Route finder
Two quick questions point you to the right guide. No forms, no email.
Services
We help you figure out what the authorities need and stay organized from beginning to finish.
For those who are looking to permanently reside in China, we can help you obtain the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card (often called the China Green Card or Five-Star Card) by helping you understand who can apply, what to file, and how the process works.
We help you identify the right permit type for your situation and stay on top of every filing and renewal deadline.
The process
Four steps we use to help you keep things clear from the very first call to life after approval.
We start by listening: your goals, timing, and which residence routes might work for you.
Then we tailor a plan for your case, not a one-size-fits-all checklist.
We help with preparation, document gathering, filings, and talking to the relevant offices so you navigate this complex process on your own.
If you need, we can also help with housing, settling in, and small practical questions once your residency application is approved.
