Work Visa Application of Senior Foreign Employees in China
As China continues to deepen its international integration, an increasing number of foreign talents are choosing to work and develop their careers in China over the long term. For foreign employees approaching retirement age (typically 60 years old), understanding China's work visa policies and identifying legal pathways to work after reaching 60 is crucial. Based on the "Classification Standards for Foreigners Working in China" and related policies, this article systematically outlines the work permit application routes and key considerations for foreign nationals aged 60 and above.
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Classification of Work Visas for Foreign Nationals and Age Restrictions
According to the "Classification Standards for Foreigners Working in China," foreigners coming to work in China are categorized into Class A, B, and C. Age restrictions primarily apply to Class B:
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Foreign High-End Talents (Class A): There are no age restrictions. If they are in good health, individuals can still apply for extensions of their work permit and work-type residence permit even after turning 60. This is the primary legal pathway for foreign nationals over 60 to continue working in China.
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Foreign Professionals (Class B): Generally, applicants must not exceed 60 years old (applies to both men and women). This is the standard route for most foreign employees applying for work permits. Upon reaching 60, it is generally not possible to obtain a work visa under the Class B category.
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Other Foreign Personnel (Class C): Mainly targets foreigners engaged in temporary, seasonal, non-technical, or service-oriented work that aligns with domestic labour market demands. Age restrictions are similar to those for Class B.
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Criteria and Application Requirements for Class A High-End Talent Recognition
For foreign applicants aged 60 or above who wish to continue working in China, it is first necessary to confirm whether they meet the criteria for Class A talent recognition. Class A talents primarily refer to foreign personnel who align with China's focus on "high-caliber, precision, advanced, and urgently needed" talents and market demand, and who significantly contribute to China's economic and social development. Specific categories include:
(1)
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Core Talent Categories
(a)Scientists, leading technological talents, international entrepreneurs, and specialized experts: High-level talents with outstanding achievements or influence in their professional fields.
(b) Foreign high-end talents meeting the points-based assessment standard (85 points or above): Those who achieve the required score through the points-based evaluation system.
(c) Individuals selected for relevant domestic talent introduction programs: Such as the national "Thousand Talents Plan," local talent programs, etc.
(d) Individuals meeting internationally recognized standards for professional achievements: Such as Nobel laureates, academicians, etc.
(e) Foreign talents meeting the demand for market-oriented positions in encouraged sectors: Those engaged in key industries and critical positions encouraged for national development.
(f) Innovation and entrepreneurship talents and outstanding young talents: Although age may be a factor, some exceptional individuals may still qualify.
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(2)
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Key Recognition Conditions
For applicants over 60, having a monthly salary reaching six times or more of the local average social wage is one of the important recognition criteria. This standard reflects the recognition of the market value of high-end talents.
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Work Permit Application Process and Facilitation Measures for Class A Talents
Foreign nationals aged 60 and above who meet the Class A talent standards can enjoy multiple facilitation policies when applying for work permits:
(1)
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Simplified Application Process
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Direct acceptance after online pre-approval: After passing the online pre-approval, the application is directly accepted, and an acceptance receipt is issued. No physical document verification is required before entry.
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Full online processing: Class A talents selected for domestic talent programs can complete the entire process online without submitting physical documents.
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Applicability of the commitment system: Work experience proof, highest degree (academic qualification) certificates, and no-criminal-record certificates can be submitted under the commitment system, simplifying document requirements.
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In-country application: Those already in China holding other visas or valid residence permits can directly submit work permit applications without leaving the country.
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(2)
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Improved Approval Efficiency
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Shortened approval timeframes: The approval time for work permit applications, extensions, and cancellations is 5 working days, significantly faster than the standard process.
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Extended validity period: A Foreigner's Work Permit may be issued with a maximum validity of 5 years, eliminating the inconvenience of frequent renewals.
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Special Requirements for Applicants Aged 60 and Abov
Regardless of the application method for a Class A work permit, all applicants aged 60 and above must submit a valid health examination report. The examination must be conducted at designated medical institutions to prove the applicant's health condition allows them to perform the job. This is an important step to ensure work safety in China. It is advisable to check the list of local designated medical examination institutions in advance to ensure the report meets requirements.
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Special Policies for Holders of Permanent Residence Status
Foreign nationals holding the "Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card" (China's "Green Card") can continue working in China after turning 60 and enjoy more conveniences:
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Unlimited duration of residence: No time limit on residence within China. They can enter and exit using their passport and Permanent Resident ID Card without needing a separate visa.
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Exemption from employment permit: Employment is exempt from requiring the "Foreigner's Employment Permit," simplifying employment procedures.
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No age restriction for work: Foreign permanent residence permit holders can continue working after 60 without reapplying for a work permit.
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Summary of Work Pathways for Foreign Nationals Aged 60 and Above
For foreign employees approaching or already at the age of 60 who wish to continue working in China, there are primarily two legal pathways:
Pathway 1: Apply for a Class A High-End Talent Work Permit
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Target group: Those meeting Class A talent recognition criteria (e.g., possessing outstanding professional achievements, significant market contribution, or a monthly salary reaching six times or more of the local average social wage).
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Key requirement: Submit a valid health examination report.
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Advantages: Fast approval, long validity period, access to facilitation measures.
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Recommendation: Assess personal qualifications in advance. Consulting professional agencies or the employer's HR department when necessary.
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Pathway 2: Work Based on Permanent Residence Status
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Target group: Foreign nationals who have already obtained China's Permanent Resident ID Card ("Green Card").
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Key requirement: Already hold a Permanent Residence Permit.
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Advantages: No age restriction, no work permit required, access to many national treatment benefits.
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Recommendation: Eligible applicants may apply for permanent residence in advance to lay a solid foundation for long-term development in China.
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China maintains an open attitude towards foreign talent, providing relatively comprehensive policy safeguards, especially for high-end talents and permanent residence permit holders. For foreign employees approaching retirement age, although age restrictions exist for Class B work permits, the goal of working legally in China can still be achieved through the Class A talent channel or by holding permanent resident status. The key lies in understanding the policies in advance, assessing personal qualifications, preparing relevant documents, and completing the application process with the employer's cooperation. Work policies for foreign nationals may be adjusted according to national development needs. It is recommended to stay updated on the latest policy changes through official channels or professional agencies to ensure compliant and smooth work permit processing.
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