The Chinese government is hoping to attract more foreign talents, by promising to provide better services and make the application for a 'Chinese Green Card' easier.
The State Council released a circular on Thursday, saying qualifications for permanent residence should be flexible and pragmatic. The ones to benefit are foreigners who specialize in fields with strong government support. The circular says foreigners with permanent residency will be treated equally with Chinese citizens in terms of purchasing property, access to schooling, and obtaining a driver's license.
It also demanded "proactive" investment-based immigration policies. The restrictions on work visas will also be reduced for outstanding overseas students.