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 so you clearly understand the China green card requirements. 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
Submit your application at the Exit-Entry Administration of your local Public Security Bureau (PSB). You can apply in person, by a representative with a notarized Power of Attorney, or by a parent if you are 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 Timelines & Tracking
<strong>Processing Timeline:</strong> The entire application process can take up to six months from submission to card issuance. Plan accordingly and maintain valid temporary residence status throughout if you are already residing in China.