Wuhan starts to grant foreigners "green card"
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-09-15 15:33

Wuhan, capital of Central China's Hubei Province, recently began accepting applications from foreigners for the new Chinese green card.

A Danish reporter became the first applicant for this credit card-sized photo ID on September 14.

Wuhan also was where the first foreign permanent resident in China lived in 1986, a German director of the Wuhan Diesel Engine Factory.

China opened a bureau for the Regulations on Examination and Approval of Permanent Residence of Aliens on August 15, marking the official implementation of China's green card.

According to the regulations, eligibility for permanent residence mainly applies to high-level foreign personnel who hold business posts that promote China's economic, scientific and technological development or social progress. Foreigners who make large investments in China, foreigners who have made outstanding contributions or are of special importance to China, and foreigners who come to China to be with their families are also eligible.

With a green card there is no limitation on the period of stay. Green card holders do not need to obtain visas and can enter and leave the country with their valid passport and Alien Permanent Residence Permits.

Since it began reform and opening-up more than two decades ago, China has continued to make it easier for foreigners to enter and leave China and maintain a long-term residence in the country. Currently, there are 230,000 foreigners living in the country with long-term residence permits.

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