To enhance the convenience for foreigners working in China, based on the directives of our national central government, starting from December 1st, 2024, foreigners’ work permits and social security cards (SSC) will be merged into a single card. This means that foreign work permit information will be directly incorporated into the SSC, and whether it’s the physical SSC or its electronic version, they will both make your work and life in China much easier.  Here are some related arrangements and notices:

Optimize work procedures

Foreigner’s Work Permit in China

The new application, extension, modification, and cancellation of work permits are handled entirely online through the Foreigners’ Work Permit Management and Service System. Foreigners no longer need to apply for a physical work permit upon entering China. For those who have already obtained a physical work permit for foreigners, following the principle of "no change, no replacement," the process will be handled according to the new integrated card and permit procedures when the existing work permit is extended or modified.

Apply for a work visa

Foreigners may use the "Notification of Foreigner Work Permit" to apply for a Z visa for working in China.

Obtain an electronic social security card

After entering China, foreigners can download the APP of electronic social security card on their mobile phones, register and log in using their name, work permit number, or social security number, and obtain an electronic social security card with work permit information after passing real-name and real-person verification. After foreigners apply for a physical social security card, the electronic social security card will provide standard services to them.

Apply for residence permit

After entering China with a Z visa, foreigners can visit the public security exit-entry department at their work location with the "Notification of Foreigner Work Permit" or an electronic social security card with work permit information to apply for relevant residence permits. Relevant departments can directly verify the information through the information system, or they can inquire about and obtain foreigners’ work permit information by viewing the electronic social security card or scanning the work permit QR code.