The Pudong New Area in Shanghai has introduced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at improving services and making life more convenient for foreign professionals working and living in the region. This initiative has been widely recognized as a demonstration of China’s commitment to further opening-up.
Announced at the 2024 Pudong International Talent Hub Forum, the 34 new measures address various aspects of foreign professionals’ lives, including employment, entrepreneurship, and daily living, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
The new policies aim to simplify entry and exit procedures for foreign talent. The Pudong New Area now has the authority to directly issue confirmation letters for high-level foreign professionals, granting them multiple-entry visas for purposes such as academic exchanges, scientific collaboration, and business visits. Additionally, family members of these professionals can enter China using the same documentation.
Electronic visas will be implemented across the entire Pudong New Area, with the process being conducted fully online. This eliminates the need for physical documents, original passports, or traditional visa stickers. Upon arrival, individuals will be able to pass through immigration using their passports and e-visas.
In a move authorized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Pudong New Area began issuing Confirmation Letters for Foreign High-Level Talents in October.
As the first district in China with such authority under city jurisdiction, Pudong is now in a stronger position to streamline visa applications for top-tier foreign professionals, enhancing its appeal as a hub for international talent.
