Permanent Residency
Expert navigation of the "Chinese Green Card" for long-term settlement.
What is the Chinese Permanent Residence Card?
The People's Republic of China Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card (中华人民共和国外国人永久居留身份证), commonly known as the China Green Card, PR Card, or Five-Star Card, is an official identity document issued by the National Immigration Administration of China to foreign nationals who have been granted permanent residence status in the People's Republic of China.
Legal Definition and Status
The Chinese permanent residence card is governed by the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China and the Measures for the Administration of Examination and Approval of Foreigners' Permanent Residence in China (Ministry of Public Security Order No. 74, issued August 2004).
This document grants foreign nationals the legal right to reside indefinitely in China and provides many of the same privileges enjoyed by Chinese citizens, excluding political rights such as voting.
Historical Background
The permanent residence system was officially established in 2004, making China one of the later countries to implement such a program. In 2017, the card underwent a major redesign to align with China's second-generation resident ID cards, including embedded chip technology compatible with existing ID card readers throughout the country.
The most recent version of the card was introduced on December 1, 2023, featuring enhanced security features and updated coding systems.
Important Note: The Chinese permanent residence card is often colloquially referred to as the "China green card" by expats and overseas Chinese, though the actual card is not green in color. This nickname reflects the influence of the American "green card" terminology. The upgraded Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, launched in late 2023, is also colloquially known as the "Five-Star Card."
Validity Period and Renewal Requirements
Understanding how long your Chinese permanent residence card remains valid and when you need to renew it is essential for maintaining your legal status in China.
Validity Periods
- Adults (18+ years): 10 years
- Minors (under 18): 5 years
- Renewal: Can be renewed indefinitely upon expiration
Residence Requirement: To maintain your permanent residence status, you must reside in China for a minimum of three months per year. If your residence in China is less than three months each year or less than one year during any five-year period without approval, the National Immigration Administration has the right to cancel your permanent residence status and confiscate or invalidate your card.
Everyday Benefits of Chinese Permanent Residency
See in one place what practical advantages you gain with the China green card
No Visa Requirements
Enter and exit China freely without visa stamps or visa renewals. Your permanent residence card and passport are all you need for unlimited travel in and out of the country.
Work Freedom
Work for any employer in China without needing work permits, employment letters, or employer sponsorship. Change jobs freely without immigration procedures.
Banking and Finance
Open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, obtain mortgages, and conduct all financial transactions with the same ease as Chinese citizens.
Property Ownership
Purchase residential and commercial property throughout China without restrictions that apply to foreigners. Full property ownership rights and protections.
Education Access
Enroll children in public schools, access domestic university tuition rates instead of international student fees, and qualify for more scholarship opportunities.
Social Services
Eligible to participate in China's social insurance programs including medical insurance, pension plans, and unemployment insurance on equal terms with Chinese nationals.
Legal Identity
Use your permanent residence card as an official ID document throughout China for hotels, train tickets, domestic flights, and all services requiring identity verification.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and unmarried children under 18 can obtain permanent residence through your status, allowing your entire family to settle together in China.
Chinese Permanent Residence vs. Other Long-Term Visas
Compare the China green card to temporary residence permits and other visa options to choose the right immigration path for your situation.
| Feature | Permanent Residence Card (Green Card) | Temporary Residence Permit | M Visa (Business) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Validity Period | 10 years (adults) / 5 years (minors) | 180 days to 5 years | Up to 90 days per entry |
| Work Authorization | Unlimited – any employer | Specific employer only | No work allowed |
| Employer Sponsorship | Not required | Required | Business invitation required |
| Multiple Entry/Exit | Unlimited, no visa needed | Permitted during validity | Limited entries during validity |
| Residence Requirement | 3 months per year minimum | Varies by permit type | Short-term stays only |
| Property Ownership | Full rights, no restrictions | Limited (1 property after 1 year work/study) | Generally not eligible |
| Renewal Process | Simple renewal every 10 years | Annual or periodic renewal required | New application each time |
| ID Card Use | Functions as national ID card | Residence permit booklet | Passport only |
Special Note for Former PRC Citizens: If you are a former Chinese citizen who naturalized abroad, the permanent residence card allows you to return to China long-term without giving up your current citizenship. This is particularly beneficial for retirees who maintain ties to both countries.
Who Qualifies for Chinese Permanent Residence?
Check if you personally qualify for a Chinese permanent residence card using these clear eligibility categories. All applicants must abide by Chinese laws, be in good health, and have no criminal record.
Category 1: Investment-Based
For entrepreneurs and investors:
- Made direct and stable investments in China
- Maintained good tax payment records for three consecutive years
- Investment amount and type meet regional requirements
Category 2: Employment-Based
For skilled professionals and executives:
- Hold position of deputy general manager, factory deputy director, or above
- OR hold associate senior professional title (associate professor, associate researcher, etc.)
- Served in position for at least four consecutive years
- Resided in China for at least three years within the four-year period (not less than 9 months per year)
- Good tax payment records
Category 3: Special Contributions
For individuals of exceptional merit:
- Made significant and outstanding contributions to China
- Possess skills or expertise especially needed in China
- Requires recommendation and documentation of achievements
- Often applies to distinguished scientists, researchers, and cultural figures
Category 4: Family Reunion (Spouse)
For spouses of Chinese citizens or permanent residents:
- Married to a Chinese citizen or foreign national with Chinese permanent residence
- Marriage has existed for at least five years
- Resided in China for at least five consecutive years with not less than nine months each year
- Have stable source of income and domicile in China
Category 5: Dependent Children
For minor children:
- Under 18 years of age and unmarried
- Dependent on parents in China
- Parents must be Chinese citizens or hold Chinese permanent residence
Category 6: Elderly Relatives
For retirees seeking family reunion:
- Age 60 or above
- Have no direct relatives abroad
- Living with direct relatives in China
- Stayed in China for at least five consecutive years with at least nine months per year
- Have stable source of income and domicile
Category 7: Dependent of Eligible Applicant
For family members:
- Spouse and unmarried children (under 18) of applicants in Categories 1, 2, or 3
- Can apply together with the primary applicant
- Do not need to independently meet residence or income requirements
Special: Overseas Chinese with Advanced Degrees
For former Chinese citizens:
- Hold a doctoral degree (PhD) or above
- Meet specific work or research requirements in China
- This pathway was reiterated by the National Immigration Administration in August 2022 specifically for overseas Chinese
- Requirements may vary by region and specific circumstances
If you were previously a citizen of the People's Republic of China but have since naturalized in another country, you may qualify through multiple pathways including the overseas Chinese doctoral degree route (announced August 2022), family reunion categories if you have close relatives in China, or the elderly relatives category if you are 60+ and seeking to return to live with family.
Required Documents and Application Process
See the exact documents you'll need to prepare and follow a step-by-step process for where and how to submit your permanent residence application.
Universal Required Documents
All applicants must provide:
- ✓Valid foreign passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity)
- ✓Health Certificate issued by a designated medical facility
- ✓Foreign Certificate of No Criminal Record (authenticated by Chinese embassy/consulate)
- ✓Completed application form with recent passport-style photographs
Category-Specific Documents
Additional documents based on your eligibility category:
- ✓Investment: Business license, capital verification, tax certificates, confirmation letters
- ✓Employment: Work permit, employment certificate, employer registration, tax records
- ✓Special: Recommendation letters, achievement documentation, awards
- ✓Family: Marriage/birth certificates, sponsor's ID, housing proof, income proof
Step-by-Step Application Process
- 1 Determine Your Eligibility Category
Review the eligibility categories above and identify which pathway applies to your situation. Gather preliminary documentation to confirm you meet all requirements for that category.
- 2 Prepare and Authenticate Documents
Collect all required documents for your category. Foreign documents must be authenticated by the Chinese embassy or consulate in the country where they were issued. Health certificates must be from designated medical facilities. Translation of non-Chinese documents into Chinese may be required and must be notarized.
- 3 Submit Application
Apply at the public security organs under municipal people's governments of cities with subordinate districts, OR at public security sub-bureaus or county-level public security sub-bureaus of direct-controlled municipalities where your investment is made or where your long-term residence is located. Applications may be submitted by the applicant personally, by an entrusted representative (requires notarized Power of Attorney), or by parents if the applicant is under 18.
- 4 Investigation and Processing (Up to 3 Months)
The local processing authority will complete an investigation of your application within three months from the date of acceptance. They will verify all documentation, conduct background checks, and confirm your eligibility. If approved at this stage, your application is forwarded to the inspection authority.
- 5 Review by Inspection Authority (Up to 2 Months)
The inspection authority will review your application within two months. If your application meets all requirements, it will be forwarded to the National Immigration Administration for final approval.
- 6 Final Approval by National Immigration Administration
The National Immigration Administration makes the final decision on all permanent residence applications. If approved, they will issue your Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card. If not approved, you will receive notification of the decision and reasons.
- 7 Receive Your Permanent Residence Card
Once approved, you will be notified to collect your Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card from the processing authority. The total process from submission to card issuance typically takes up to six months, though timelines may vary.
Processing Timeline: The entire application process can take up to six months from initial submission to final card issuance. Plan accordingly and maintain valid temporary residence status during the application period if you are already residing in China.
Family Inclusion and Official References
How Your Family Can Obtain Permanent Residence
If you qualify for Chinese permanent residence under the investment, employment, or special contributions categories, your immediate family members can also apply:
- ✓Spouse: Can apply as a dependent of the primary applicant without independently meeting residence or income requirements
- ✓Children: Unmarried children under 18 years of age can apply as dependents
- ✓Simultaneous Application: Family members can apply together with the primary applicant
- ✓Separate Application: After the primary applicant receives permanent residence, family members can apply subsequently
Family members must still provide health certificates and criminal record certificates, along with documentation proving the family relationship (marriage certificates, birth certificates, or relationship certificates).
Legal Protections and Responsibilities
With permanent residence status, you gain legal protections and assume certain responsibilities:
Your Rights:
- ✓Equal treatment under Chinese civil and commercial law
- ✓Property ownership and inheritance rights
- ✓Protection from arbitrary deportation
- ✓Access to legal system and courts
Your Responsibilities:
- ✓Comply with all Chinese laws and regulations
- ✓Maintain minimum residence requirement (3 months/year)
- ✓Pay applicable taxes on China-sourced income
- ✓Notify authorities of address changes
- ✓Keep permanent residence card valid and renew before expiration
Official Laws, Regulations, and Resources
Verify information and explore authoritative sources:
Primary Legal Framework:
- Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People's Republic of China – The foundational immigration law governing entry, exit, and residence of foreign nationals
- Measures for the Administration of Examination and Approval of Foreigners' Permanent Residence in China (Ministry of Public Security and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Order No. 74, August 2004) – Detailed regulations on permanent residence qualifications, application procedures, and approval authority
Government Authorities:
- National Immigration Administration (NIA) – The primary authority responsible for approving permanent residence applications and issuing Foreign Permanent Resident ID Cards (en.nia.gov.cn)
- Local Public Security Bureaus – Processing authorities where applications are initially submitted and investigated
Key Policy Updates:
- 2004: Permanent residence system officially established
- 2017: Card redesigned to align with second-generation national ID cards, added chip technology
- 2022: NIA reiterated overseas Chinese with doctoral degrees can apply for permanent residence
- 2023: New version of Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card introduced with updated coding system
Ready to Apply for Chinese Permanent Residence?
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