It was learned from the Ministry of Public Security today that by September 30 this year, China has granted "green cards" (permanent resident status) to 649 foreigners from 33 countries including the US, Canada, Singapore, Japan and Australia.

The Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs jointly released the Administrative Regulations on Examining and Approving Permanent Residence in China for Foreigners ("green card" system) in August 2004 and started to grant "green cards" to foreigners who meet all relevant requirements. Issuance of those 600-odd "green cards" actively contributed to absorption of high quality human resources and capital from other countries and promotion of national economic development.

According to the "green card" system, foreigners who meet any of the following requirements can obtain a "green card" in China. First, unmarried people below 18 years old who come to live with their parents. Second, a Chinese citizen's spouse who has been married for five years, lived in China for five years, stayed in China for no less than 9 months annually, and has stable income and residence. Third, Chinese of foreign nationality in their 60s or above who has no lineal relatives overseas, has come to live with their lineal relatives, stayed in China for five consecutive years, stayed in China for no less than 9 months annually, and has stable income and residence. Foreigners with a "green card" need no visa when entering or leaving China and can live in China permanently.

Asked about the concept of permanent resident status of a foreigner, relevant official with the Ministry of Public Security  said it means a foreigner of permanent resident status has no limit of stay in China and can enter and exit China with a valid passport and a "green card".

(China News Service November 18, 2005)