Work permits and residence permits for foreigners currently looking to return or move to China have become a critical problem.

While it has been possible to obtain or renew a work permit online remotely, the real issue has been trying to do the same for residence permits required to enter and live in the country. Without a straightforward way to enter and stay and with their original residence permits now expired, this has created an enormous dilemma for individuals caught out of the country after COVID 19 travel restrictions were put in place.

The change to remote work permit applications where documents can be submitted online has been a welcome change. But this change has only really benefited those already based in China looking to change or renew their work permits before then applying for the corresponding residence permit in the still traditional offline, physical copy manner.

As policies continue to potentially change, remember that certain documents will be needed, such as timely and notarized non-criminal record reports. These reports have traditionally been one of the key gating item documents required from overseas when applying for a work and residence permit. If the sense is that a window may be opening up, be sure to get this process started immediately.

More information on work permit and residence permit applications can be found on our site.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us:

inquiries@chinalawsolutions.com