China's National Immigration Administration Releases New Version of Permanent Residence Identity Card for Foreigners

The National Immigration Administration of China (NIA) held a press conference in Beijing on September 15, announcing that a new version of the Permanent Resident Card for Foreigners of the People's Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the "Permanent Resident Card") will be formally issued and activated on December 1 this year, and that the new version of the Permanent Resident Card will be released at the same time. After the launch of the new version of the permanent residence card, the current version of the permanent residence card can still be used within the validity period, and the holder can apply for the replacement of the new version of the permanent residence card in due course according to his/her personal needs. A permanent residence permit is a legal identity document issued by the National Immigration Administration for eligible foreigners who have approved their permanent residence in China. This certificate can be used separately as a personal identity document, and the holder can use it as a legal proof of personal identity in places such as accommodation registration, purchase of car (ship, plane) tickets, etc., without the need to present their foreign passport. On the basis of maintaining the basic style of the current version, the new version of the permanent residence certificate has added a five-star element that reflects the national logo, optimized and beautified the layout, adopted more advanced anti-counterfeiting technology, and improved the storage and application management services of document information. The new version of the permanent residence certificate has upgraded its technology and enhanced its functions. After the new certificate is activated, holders can handle personal affairs such as transportation, daily consumption, and finance online through the internet platform, which will further facilitate their work, study, and life in China. The relevant person in charge of the National Immigration Administration introduced that the introduction of the new permanent residence permit is a practical measure to ensure the country's high-level opening up to the outside world and improve the informatization level of foreign management services. It is conducive to improving the quality and efficiency of immigration management services, better serving overseas talents to work, study, and live in China, and implementing the strategy of strengthening the country through talent. Next, the National Immigration Administration will work with relevant departments to accelerate the matching upgrade and transformation of information systems, facilities and equipment in various industries, expand the application scope, improve experience satisfaction, and comprehensively and smoothly achieve the functional goal of the revised permanent residence permit.