Guide to Issues Regarding Foreigner’s Work in Shanghai

http://www.sgst.cn/Updated :2021-07-17

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I.Guide to Employer Registration on Foreigner's Work in China

01 Employer Registration on Foreigner's Work in China

I. Access to the System

1. Please directly access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn.

2. Access to Government Online-Offline Shanghai (http://zwdt.sh.gov.cn/govPortals/index.do) via ECA (electronic certificate authority), switch to the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, click “Foreigner's Work Permit in China”, then click “Foreigner's Work Permit in China (>90 days)”, to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Or, access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China directly via Government Online-Offline Shanghai (https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp).

Recommended browsers: IE10 and above, Firefox, Google Chrome.

II. Registration Process

1. The employer shall register and complete the information online.

2. After the employer submits the information and uploads all original documents online, a handler shall take the original Employer Registration Form, the originals and copies (stamped with the official seal) of all the employer's documents for real-name registration at the reception window (without waiting for approval upon submission to the system).

3. Policy Release

For policies, guides, and some sample forms and commitments for Foreigner's Work Permit in China, please refer to the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs) at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/ and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms at http://ftsh.sgst.cn

III. Guide to Employer Operations

1. Login

The user shall open the browser and enter the website address. In the upper right corner of the website is the “Register Now” button. For any new user, please click the “Register” button to enter the registration prompt page. After reading the registration instructions, please click the “I Know” button to enter the registration information page.

2. Registration

Please fill in the unified social credit code/organization code /approval certificate number and name of the employer accurately, enter the mobile phone number to obtain the verification code, set the password and chick “I have read and accepted the user agreement” button, and then click the “Start Registration” button. Please choose the place of registration or of office (supplemented with the lease contract, or the lease invoice, or the ownership certificate) in the list of “Administrative Regions” where the employer's registration is accepted as the place of business receiving. Once “Registration Completed” is shown, please click the “Login Now” button in the upper right corner to enter the employer information page.

3. Complete the Employer's Information

After entering the employer account, please click the button “Complete the Employer's Information” on the right. All contents shall be filled out truthfully according to the information on the certificates held by the employer. After entering the information, please click “Save” and “Print the Employer Registration Form” buttons (it is recommended to export for backup. Please do upload the printed stamped registration form as a colored electronic attachment to the “Attachments” of the system.)

4. Uploading of Original Documents

Please do upload the necessary attachments as required. Note: All attachments shall be uploaded in originals in color. Only when the page shows “Uploading Completed” does it mean that the files have been uploaded. The required attachments are as follows.

Remarks:

1. If there is any updating in the registration, please provide the updated documents with the official seal of the Foreign Affairs Department or the Human Resources Department of the employer.

2. If there is any change in the office address, economic type, etc., please provide the legal registration certificates issued by relevant administrative departments, e.g. the Letter of Approval, the Business License, the Registration Certificate for A Private Non-Enterprise Entity, the Unified Social Credit Code Certificate, or the Organization Code Certificate.

3. If the applicant becomes the legal representative or chief representative, please provide the updated Business License, Registration Certificate for A Private Non-Enterprise Entity, Organization Code Certificate, Social Insurance Registration Certificate, or Registration Certificate and Representative Certificate of a Resident Representative Office of a Foreign Enterprise in China.

4. The approval certificates issued by relevant departments include those issued by multinational companies, headquarters of multinational companies in China (identified by the Ministry of Commerce of the PRC), enterprise groups (holders of the Enterprise Group Registration Certificate, including parent company, subsidiaries and branches), central enterprises and their subsidiaries, national high-tech enterprises (identified by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC), enterprise engineering research centers (identified by the National Development and Reform Commission of the PRC), engineering labs (identified by the National Development and Reform Commission of the PRC), engineering technology research centers (identified by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC), enterprise technology centers (identified by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the PRC), and local technical innovation service platforms (identified by corresponding Ministry/Bureau of Science and Technology).

5. The reception authority or the decision-making authority may require the employer to provide other documents up to the basic conditions of the employer.

6. Those professional service agencies authorized with the procedures of application, extension, changing, cancellation, or reissuance shall submit the Letter of Authorization of the employer, in which the authorized entity, the authorized person and his/her ID number and telephone number, and the authorized matters shall be clearly specified. That is, the professional service agency, the authorized person and the corresponding authorized matters shall be clearly specified.

5. Fill-in of Handler Information

After the attachments are uploaded, please fill in the information of the handler, who shall be staff of the employer, and then click the “Submit for Review” button. Only when “Saved” is shown does the information of the handler have been added to the account.

6. Amendment and Cancellation

After submitting the account information, and before it is reviewed, the employer can click the “Cancel the Current Operation” button to turn the account information “Unsubmitted” again. Upon cancellation, the employer can amend the information and then submit.

7. Real-name Registration

After submitting the information, and uploading and submitting all original documents online, without the necessity to wait for the system's feedback, the employer or the intermediate shall take the originals and copies of all the employer’s documents (stamped with the official seal) required for real-name registration at the reception window. Upon approval, the reception authority shall not notify separately.

8. Completion of Registration

The employers or the entrusted intermediates approved can normally handle relevant business, while those not approved cannot.

II.Guide to Application for Foreigner's Work Permit (＞90 Days Working in China)

Tips for Application

I. Procedure

Access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn, and complete the registration of the company. Access to Government Online-Offline Shanghai (http://zwdt.sh.gov.cn/govPortals/index.do) via ECA (electronic certificate authority), switch to the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, click “Foreigner’s Work Permit in China”, then click “Foreigner’s Work Permit in China (>90 days)”, to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Or, access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China directly via Government Online-Offline Shanghai (https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp).

2. Log in, and truthfully fill in the form, including the applicant's basic information, education background, work experience, application information, etc., and upload the original documents required in color.

3. After uploading all the original documents, submit them for preliminary review; upon approval, the handler shall take all the original paper documents uploaded to the window for verification and reception; upon acceptance at the window, the review will be completed within the stipulated period. According to Online Approval for Foreigner's Work Permit in China (Version 3.0), the employer can, based on “pledge system”, complete the online procedures for handling the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit in China (Categories B/C) (hereinafter referred to as “Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit”), the extension of the Foreigner's Work Permit (Categories B/C) and the cancellation of any certificates, without submitting any paper document to the reception windows for verification. Other business related to extension of Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit, extension and change of Foreigner's Work Permit, and others related remain unchanged in procedure, and there is no need to submit paper documents to the reception window for verification.

II. Legal Basis

1. Administrative License Law of the People's Republic of China.

2. Letter of Opinions on the Integration of Work Permit for Foreigners (No. 95 [2015] SGBH), issued by the Office for Administrative Examination and Approval System Reform under State Council.

3. Notice on Comprehensively Implementing the System of the Foreigner's Work Permit in China (No. 40 [2017] SAFEA), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Public Security.

4. Notice on Issuing the Service Guide to the Foreigner’s Work Permit in China (Trial) (No. 36 [2017] SAFEA), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

5. Notice on Issuing the Implementation Measures for Foreign Talent Visas (No. 218 [2017] SAFEA), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Security.

6. Article 41 under Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China: Foreigners who work in China shall obtain work permits and work-type residence permits in accordance with relevant regulations. No entities or individuals shall employ foreigners who have no work permits or work-type residence permits.

7. Article 7 under Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners: To apply for the R visa, the applicant shall meet the qualifications and requirements set by the competent authorities of the Chinese government for introducing persons of high talent or urgently needed specialists, and the applicant shall, in accordance with relevant provisions, submit the relevant certification documents; To apply for the Z visa, the applicant shall, in accordance with relevant provisions, submit the work permit and other certification documents.

Article 16 under Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners: To apply for a work-type residence permit, the applicant shall submit the work permit and other certification documents. In the case of a person of high talent who is needed or, a specialist who is urgently needed, by the State of China, the applicant shall submit relevant certification documents in accordance with relevant provisions.

8. Notice of Further Implementing the Work of Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit in China for the International Youth Interns Exchange Program (No. 18 [2020] MST), issued by the General Office of the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China.

9. Notice on Further Improvement of Online Approval for Foreigner's Work Permit in China (Version 3.0) and Optimization of Matters Related to Foreigner's Work Permit in Shanghai, issued by Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality and Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

10. Notice on Further Improvement of Online Approval for Foreigner's Work Permit in China (Version 4.0) to Attract Foreign Talents, issued by Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality and Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

III. Requirements for Documents Provided

1. All paper versions of original documents and the translated Chinese versions must be electronically uploaded to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn.

2. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

3. All the copies of the documents required should be stamped with the official seal of the employer.

IV. Notes

1. The reception authority or the decision-making authority may request the employer to submit corrected version if there is any discrepancy between the Chinese translation and the original.

2. For provisions on consular legalization of documents, please refer to the website of China Consular Affairs (at http://cs.mfa.gov.cn/) or contact the Embassy/Consulate of China.

3. Policy Release

For policies, guides, and some sample forms and commitments for Foreigner's Work Permit in China, please refer to the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality and Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/ and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms at http://ftsh.sgst.cn

4. Upon approval online, the employer shall print out the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit after its being issued automatically by the system. The employer shall, with the Notification Letter or the receipt of acceptance, receive the Foreigner's Work Permit at the reception window.

5. Before entering China, the applicant shall apply for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit completely online, and there is no need to submit paper documents for verification; and after entering China, or when applying directly in China for the Foreigner's Work Permit, shall submit the originals of all the documents electronically uploaded at the reception window for verification. For foreign high-end talents (Category A) up to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who (I) have been selected in domestic programs for talents introduction, there is no need to submit the paper documents for verification.

6. Those who are not qualified for handling the Foreigner’s Work Permit directly in China but have entered China shall handle it as a new applicant for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit.

7. For extension, changing, reissuance or cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit, there is no need to submit paper documents for verification.

8. Those professional service agencies authorized with the procedure of application, extension, changing, cancellation, or reissuance shall submit the Letter of Authorization of the employer, in which the authorized entity, the authorized person and his/her ID number and telephone number, and the authorized matters shall be clearly specified. That is, the professional service agency, the authorized person and the corresponding authorized matters shall be clearly specified.

9. The employers and foreign talents shall ensure the authenticity of what they have submitted and been committed to, and actively cooperate with the approving authorities in interviews and operational and post-operational supervision and verification. For those who make false promises, the approving authorities are entitled to cancel administrative decisions in accordance with laws and regulations, and suspend the handling of work permits for employers, agencies and foreigners. Violations of laws and regulations shall be lawfully dealt with.

V. Examination and Approval Period

Notes: Preliminary review period starts from the day when complete and qualified documents are submitted. For the online business, the review period starts from the day when the materials are accepted online; for the business at reception window, the review period starts from the day when the original paper documents are verified and confirmed at the reception window.

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

VI. Reception Way and Time

(I) Reception Way

1. Reception at the Window (including reception, consultation, and certificate taking)

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China).

Municipal Reception Address

Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District.

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners’ Work Permit and Residence Permit).

For other sites, please refer to the list of names and addresses of the handling authorities at the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs) at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/ and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms at http://ftsh.sgst.cn.

2. Online Reception

(1) Please directly access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn.

(2) Access to Government Online-Offline Shanghai (http://zwdt.sh.gov.cn/govPortals/index.do) via ECA (electronic certificate authority), switch to the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, click “Foreigner's Work Permit in China”, then click “Foreigner's Work Permit in China (>90 days)”, to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Or, access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China directly via Government Online-Offline Shanghai (https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp).

(II) Reception Time

Hotline: 800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile phone)

02 Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit and the Foreigner's Work Permit before Entering China (Categories A/B)

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Employers shall be established by law with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts; the employment of foreigners shall be for special needs and the appropriate candidates are in short supply domestically in China, while the post doesn't violate any government regulations; the salary or remuneration for those foreigners shall not be lower than the local minimum wage.

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

(2) Those applicants shall engage in urgently needed jobs in China and can make contributions to China's economic and social development.

(3) The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

(4) Foreign High-end Talents (Category A) refer to those scientists, science and technology leading talents, international entrepreneurs, special talents who meet the orientation of “high-levels, elites, top leaderships, and urgently-needed people” and market demands and can contribute to China's economic and social development, and those who conform to the score-based system (scored 85 or above according to the Points-based Assignment Table), with no limits of age, academic qualification or work experience.

Foreign Professionals (Category B) refer to those professionals who are in line with the “Foreigners Employed in China Guide Catalog” and the corresponding urgent demands of the economic and social development of China, and have a bachelor degree or above and two years and above related work experience, 60 years old or less. The limits in terms of age, academic degree or work experience may be relaxed for those who are specially needed, those regarded as innovative and entrepreneurial talents, professional and technical talents, and in line with the scoring system (scored 60 or above according to the Score-based Assignment Sheet), and the executors of intergovernmental protocols or agreements.

Please see the details in the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) (at the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality/Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/ and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms http://ftsh.sgst.cn). Other provisions, if any, regarding professionals and governmental project personnel shall be followed preferentially.

(II) Documents Required

1. Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit before Entering China

(1) Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit: Before entering China, fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant (send copy or fax if needed) – have it stamped with the employer’s or the authorized department’s seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Identification documents as a foreign talent: Provide the required credentials according to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial). The Application Form must be signed by the applicant and stamped with the employer’s seal. Additional investigation may be conducted by the decision-making authority if necessary.

Applicants up to foreign high-end talents (Category A) or foreign professionals (Category B) through the score-based system shall provide the corresponding highest degree (academic qualification) certificate, vocational qualifications, Chinese proficiency certificate (HSK Chinese Proficiency Test Certificate), proof of annual salary in China, work qualification documents, the scoring system sheet, etc.

In salary-related applications, both the employer and the applicant shall submit a letter of commitment (including the monthly (/yearly) salary for foreign nationals, monthly (/yearly) tax amount in Shanghai, place of tax payment, signed by the applicant and stamped with the official seal of the employer), the receiving or decision-making authority may require the employer to provide the corresponding tax payment certificate in handling the next business.

(3) Work qualification certificate: The previous employer of the applicant shall issue a work experience certificate related to his/her current position, covering the information about the position, work duration, and the projects that have been completed. The document needs to be stamped with the official seal of the previous employer or signed by the person in charge with an effective contact number or an email address. Applicants up to the score-based system for foreign talents shall issue a work experience certificate that meets the year limit of scores.

For those foreign high-end talents (Category A) according to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who: (I) have been selected in domestic programs for talents introduction; (II) conform to the internationally recognized identification standard for professional achievement, the pledge system shall be adopted. Others who meet up to foreign high-end talents (Category A) shall still need to provide a work qualification certificate. If the applicants have any award in the relevant professional fields, please also provide credentials of the awards.

(4) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents: If the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued by a foreign university, it shall be certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China, or a Chinese academic certification institution; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China, it shall be certified by a Chinese academic certification institution or notarized by the local notary office; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in China’s mainland, only the original degree (academic qualification) certificate shall be provided. For those foreign high-end talents (Category A) up to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who (I) have been selected in domestic programs for talents introduction; (II) conform to the internationally recognized identification criteria for professional achievement; (III) fulfill the market demand for encouraged-encouraged jobs; (IV) are innovative and entrepreneurial talents, the pledge system shall be adopted.

(5) Relevant approval documents and professional qualification certificates: For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law or qualified access professional qualifications, an approval document issued by the industry competent authority or a professional qualification certificate shall be submitted; for a professional qualification issued overseas, it shall be certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China, or a Chinese academic certification institution; for a professional qualification issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China, it shall be notarized by the local notary office.

(6) Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents: For foreign high-end talents (Category A), the pledge system shall be adopted. For foreign professionals (Category B), a certificate of no criminal record shall be issued by the police, the security department, or the court of the nationality state or the place of habitual residence of the applicant, and certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China [the place of habitual residence refers to the place (not on the territory of China) where the applicant lives for at least one consecutive year after the applicant left his/her native country]; a certificate of no criminal record issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China shall be notarized by the local notary public office. A certificate of no criminal record issued within six months is valid. Personal declarations of no criminal record, for declaration only, are not accepted. A certificate of no criminal record issued by a foreign embassy or consulate in China which is non-declaration of no criminal record can be accepted without further certification.

(7) Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided. Applicant’s commitment shall apply and a written commitment to physical examination shall be provided before entry.

(8) Employment contract or employment certificate: The submitted contract shall be in Chinese, signed by the applicant and stamped by the employer. No handwritten alteration is allowed. The employment contract or employment certificate (including the dispatch letter of a multinational corporation) shall contain such essential information as work place, job responsibilities, payment, work duration in China, and position, and page of seal (signature). The employment certificate shall apply to performers of intergovernmental or international agreements, chief representatives and representatives of various representative offices in China, and overseas contract service providers. The dispatch letter shall apply to senior executives such as managers and technical professionals dispatched from their overseas headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations to subsidiaries or branches in China, and shall be issued by the headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations. In case any essential content is missing in the employment certificate (including the dispatch letter), a separate certificate shall be provided. In case the dispatch of senior executives and technical professionals are dispatched from their regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China to subsidiaries or branches in China, the dispatch letter and the employment contract signed with the regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China shall be provided.

(9) Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

(10) Applicant's bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago: The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

(11) Accompanying family members’ credentials: The information page of the passport (or of the international travel certificate), certificate of family relationship (for spouse, marriage certificate; for child, child birth certificate or adoption certificate; for parents or parents-in-law, applicant’s birth certificate or marriage certificate or notarized certificate); medical report (family members at least 18 years old) and their electronic photos (identical with the main applicant). Accompanying family members include spouse, children below 18 years old, parents, and parents-in-law.

(12) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

2. Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit after Entering China

(1) Applicant’s certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority.

(2) Applicant’s valid visa or residence permit: Visa page, page of latest entry stamp or page of residence permit of the passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(3) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

03 Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit Directly in China (Categories A/B)

Guide to foreign talents (Categories A/B, >90 days working in China) for Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit (Applicable to those changing employer or post and applying for a new Foreigner's Work Permit)

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

(2) Those applicants shall engage in urgently needed jobs in China and can make contributions to China's economic and social development.

(3) The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

(4) Those who meet one of the following conditions can directly apply for a foreigner's work permit in China:

① Foreign high-end talents (Category A) who have entered China with a visa or a valid residence-type permit;

② Foreigners working in China with a valid work residence permit who have changed their employer but still work in the same occupation;

③ Foreign spouses or children of Chinese citizens and spouses or children of foreigners who have permanent residence or work in China with a valid visa or residence-type permit;

④ In line with the related preferential policies of a free trade zone or comprehensive innovation reform pilot area;

⑤ The employer conforms to the relevant preferential policies of multinational companies in China;

⑥ Internal staff transfers within an enterprise group;

⑦ For the implementation of intergovernmental agreements;

⑧ Representatives of foreign enterprises in China who have a working visa and have been in China; foreigners who have a valid work permit for foreigners working in China for less than 90 days and are employed by a company in China during their stay;

⑨ Those who have been working legally in China for no less than one year consecutively in recent 5 years and have good credit;

⑩ Those who are identified by other departments and meet all the conditions.

(II) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer’s or the authorized department’s seal - upload it to the system.

2. Identification documents as a foreign talent: Provide the required credentials according to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial). The Application Form must be signed by the applicant and stamped with the employer’s seal. Additional investigation may be conducted by the decision-making authority if necessary.

3. Work qualification certificate: The previous employer of the applicant shall issue a work experience certificate related to his/her current position, covering the information about the position, work duration, and the projects that have been completed. The document needs to be stamped with the official seal of the previous employer or signed by the person in charge with an effective contact number or an email address. Applicants up to the score-based system for foreign talents shall issue a work experience certificate that meets the year limit of scores. For those foreign high-end talents (Category A) according to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who: (I) have been selected in domestic programs for talents introduction; (II) conform to the internationally recognized identification standard for professional achievement, the pledge system shall be adopted. Others who meet up to foreign high-end talents (Category A) shall still need to provide a work qualification certificate. If the applicants have any award in the relevant professional fields, please also provide credentials of the awards.

4. The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents: If the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued by a foreign university, it shall be certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China, or a Chinese academic certification institution; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China, it shall be certified by a Chinese academic certification institution or notarized by the local notary office; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in China’s mainland, only the original degree (academic qualification) certificate shall be provided. For those foreign high-end talents (Category A) up to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who (I) have been selected in domestic programs for talents introduction; (II) conform to the internationally recognized identification criteria for professional achievement; (III) fulfill the market demand for government-encouraged jobs; (IV) are innovative and entrepreneurial talents, the pledge system shall be adopted.

5. Relevant approval documents and professional qualification certificates: For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law or qualified access professional qualifications, an approval document issued by the industry competent authority or a professional qualification certificate shall be submitted; for a professional qualification issued overseas, it shall be certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China, or a Chinese academic certification institution; for a professional qualification issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China, it shall be notarized by the local notary office.

6. Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents: For foreign high-end talents (Category A), and the foreign sci-tech talents, the pledge system shall be adopted. For foreign professionals (Category B), a certificate of no criminal record shall be issued by the police, the security department, or the court of the nationality state or the place of habitual residence of the applicant and certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China [the place of habitual residence refers to the place (not on the territory of China) where the applicant lives for at least one consecutive year after the applicant left his/her native country]; a certificate of no criminal record issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China shall be notarized by the local notary public office. A certificate of no criminal record issued within six months is valid. Personal declarations of no criminal record, for declaration only, are not accepted. A certificate of no criminal record issued by a foreign embassy or consulate in China which is non-declaration of no criminal record can be accepted without further certification. In principle, with a valid work-type residence permit, the foreigner may be exempted from providing a certificate of no criminal record; if the foreigner changes his/her employer, the Bureau of Exit and Entry Administration of the Ministry of Public Security has cancelled his/her work-type residence permit and changed into a stay permit; or if the foreigner has not left China and his/her work-type residence permit has been cancelled within one month, he/she may also be exempted from providing a certificate of no criminal record.

7. Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided. When applying for the Foreigner’s Work Permit directly in China, foreigners with a valid work-type residence permit may be exempted from providing a certificate of physical examination (but those with a work-type residence permit in China for less than 90 days still need to provide).

8. Employment contract or employment certificate: The submitted contract shall be in Chinese, signed by the applicant and stamped by the employer. No handwritten alteration is allowed. The employment contract or employment certificate (including the dispatch letter of a multinational corporation) shall contain such essential information as work place, job responsibilities, payment, work duration in China, and position, and page of seal (signature). The employment certificate shall apply to performers of intergovernmental or international agreements, chief representatives and representatives of various representative offices in China, and overseas contract service providers. The dispatch letter shall apply to senior executives such as managers and technical professionals dispatched from their overseas headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations to subsidiaries or branches in China, and shall be issued by the headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations. In case any essential content is missing in the employment certificate (including the dispatch letter), a separate certificate shall be provided. In case the dispatch of senior executives and technical professionals are dispatched from their regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China to subsidiaries or branches in China, the dispatch letter and the employment contract signed with the regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China shall be provided.

9. Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

10. Applicant’s valid visa or residence permit: Visa page, page of latest entry stamp, or page of residence permit of the passport (or of the international travel certificate).

11. Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago: The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

12. Cancellation letter or leaving certificate: If the applicant changes his/her employer or position, the existing Foreigner’s Work Permit within the valid period shall be cancelled. When applying for a new Foreigner’s Work Permit, the applicant, who normally terminates the contract with the previous employer and changes his/her employer in China within one year, shall submit the leaving certificate issued by the previous employer.

13. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

04 Foreign High-end Talent's (with R Visa) Application for Foreigner's Work Permit Directly in China

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

(2) The applicant has gotten the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents and has entered China with R visa.

(3) The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

(II) Requirements for Documents Provided

1. All paper versions of original documents and the translated Chinese versions must be electronically uploaded to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

2. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the inviting employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

(III) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - send to the applicant for signing - have it stamped with the employer’s or the authorized department’s seal - upload it to the system.

2. Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided.

3. Employment contract or employment certificate: The submitted contract shall be in Chinese, signed by the applicant and stamped by the employer. No handwritten alteration is allowed. The employment contract or employment certificate (including the dispatch letter of a multinational corporation) shall contain such essential information as work place, job responsibilities, payment, work duration in China, and position, and page of seal (signature). The employment certificate shall apply to performers of intergovernmental or international agreements, chief representatives and representatives of various representative offices in China, and overseas contract service providers. The dispatch letter shall apply to senior executives such as managers and technical professionals dispatched from their overseas headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations to subsidiaries or branches in China, and shall be issued by the headquarters or regional headquarters of multinational corporations. In case any essential content is missing in the employment certificate (including the dispatch letter), a separate certificate shall be provided. In case the dispatch of senior executives and technical professionals are dispatched from their regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China to subsidiaries or branches in China, the dispatch letter and the employment contract signed with the regional headquarters of multinational corporations in China shall be provided.

4. Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

5. Applicant’s valid R visa: R visa page and the latest entry stamp page of the passport (or of the international travel certificate).

6. Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago: The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

7. Other documents:

(1) Work qualification certificate: For foreign high-end talents (Category A) up to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) who (III) fulfill the market demand for government-encouraged jobs; (IV) are innovative and entrepreneurial talents; (V) are outstanding young talents, the relevant credentials shall be provided.

(2) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate: Applicants who are (V) excellent young talents in accordance with foreign high-end talents (Category A) in the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial) shall provide the required credentials.

(3) Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(IV) Notes

1. The applicant who has gotten the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents and has entered China with R visa can apply for Foreigner's Work Permit online, and no paper documents shall be submitted for verification.

2. When applying for the Foreigner's Work Permit, there is no need to resubmit those documents submitted before in the Service System for Foreigners Working in China to apply for the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents.

(V) Examination and Approval Period

1. Preliminary review period: five working days (for preliminary review and reception, after the complete and qualified documents are submitted).

2. Review period: three working days (after the documents are accepted online).

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

05 Foreign Talents' and Team Members' (Categories A/B) Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit and the Foreigner's Work Permit within Entrepreneurial Period (Trial)

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Requirements for a Park or an Incubator

(1) A park or an incubator shall be established by law, and registered with and recommended by the competent departments at district level or above, with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts.

(2) A park may be any type, such as innovation park, sci-tech park, or industrial park, which have been recognized by the competent departments at all levels in Shanghai and have signed agreements or lease contracts with the entrepreneurial teams or entrepreneurs.

(3) An incubator refers to any innovation incubator which has registered in any district in Shanghai and is under its tax administration, and has signed incubation agreements and lease contracts with entrepreneurial teams or entrepreneurs. An incubator may include maker spaces registered in China, offshore innovation and entrepreneurship bases for overseas talents, national technology-based business incubators, incubators contracting venture parks for overseas Chinese, as well as innovation incubators and functional platforms with international resources.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) The applicants are foreigners and entrepreneurial team members (in principle, no more than five people) in the park or incubator who have not yet established a company during the entrepreneurial period.

(2) Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall be at least 18 years old, being in good health, without criminal record.

(3) Those applicants shall engage in urgently needed jobs in China and can make contributions to China's economic and social development.

(4) The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

(II) Documents Required

1. Park or Incubator

(1) Business license or other legal registration certificates.

(2) Documents and recommendation documents recognized by the competent departments at or above the district level.

(3) Premise certification documents (i.e. property ownership certificate, premise lease agreement, etc.)

(4) After submitting the information and uploading all original documents online, without the necessity to wait for the system’s feedback, the employer shall take the original Employer Registration Form and the originals and copies of all the employer’s documents (stamped with the official seal) for real-name registration at the reception window. Upon approval, the reception authority shall not notify separately.

2. Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit before Entering China

(1) Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit;

(2) Work qualification certificate;

(3) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents;

(4) Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents;

(5) Certificate of physical examination;

(6) Incubation agreement or lease contract signed by and between the applicant and the park or incubator;

(7) Applicant’s passport or international travel certificate;

(8) Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago;

(9) Accompanying family members’ credentials;

(10) Other documents as needed.

Application for the Foreigner’s Work Permit after Entering China

(1) Applicant’s certificate of physical examination;

(2) Applicant’s valid visa or valid residence permit;

(3) Other documents as needed.

3. Application for the Foreigner’s Work Permit Directly in China

(1) Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit;

(2). Work qualification certificate;

(3) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents;

(4) Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents;

(5) Certificate of physical examination;

(6) Incubation agreement or lease contract signed by and between the applicant and the park or incubator;

(7) Applicant’s passport or international travel certificate;

(8) Applicant’s valid visa or valid residence permit;

(9) Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago.

4. Extension of the Foreigner’s Work Permit

(1) Application Form for Extension of Foreigner’s Work Permit;

(2) Incubation agreement or lease contract signed by and between the applicant and the park or incubator;

(3) Applicant’s valid residence permit;

(4) Other documents: Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner’s Work Permit in China will be handled online (Category A of foreign high-end talents needn’t provide it), and documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

5. Cancellation of the Foreigner’s Work Permit

(1) Application Form for Cancellation of Foreigner’s Work Permit;

(2) Documents demonstrating the termination of incubation agreement or lease contract signed by and between the applicant and the park or incubator, or other documents certifying the reasons for cancellation of Foreigner’s Work Permit;

(3) Other documents as needed.

(III) Notes

1. The valid period of Foreigner's Work Permit for foreign entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial team members shall be no more than six months, and shall not exceed the valid period of the signed incubation agreement, lease contract (in which it is necessary to state that the premise is not used for temporary business), and the applicant's passport or other international travel documents. Before the work permit expires, the park or the incubator shall make an evaluation and apply for extension or cancellation as needed.

2. 30 or more days ahead before the work permit expires, the park or the incubator shall make an evaluation and apply for extension or cancellation as needed.

3. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the park or incubator (except for passports and international travel certificates).

06 Application of French Interns (Category C) and German Interns (Category C) for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit and the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(1) Employers shall be established by law with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts.

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) French college or university students (including vocational and technical colleges or institutes) who have not graduated or graduated no more than one year ago; German college or university students (including vocational and technical colleges or institutes) who have not graduated but have finished four or more semesters, or those who graduated no more than one year ago.

(2) Aged at least 18.

(3) Having a specific clearly-defined employer in normal operation and conduction of activities by law within the administration of Shanghai.

(4) The internship duration shall be no more than six months. No employee status. There are two types: ① ≤ 90 days; ② between 90 days and 6 months.

(5) No criminal record.

(6) Being in good health.

(7) Having valid passports or any other equivalent international travel certificates.

(8) Other conditions prescribed by laws and regulations.

(II) Documents Required

1. Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit before Entering China

(1) Internship duration: ≤ 90 Days

① The applicant shall fill in the Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit - print it out - sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer’s seal - upload it to the system.

② Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago: The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

③ Internship contract: in Chinese, and without handwritten alteration.

④ Certificate of internship: For French interns, it should be issued by Cultural And Education Section of France Embassy in China, or L’Excellence de la Culture Française en Chine de Ambassade de France en Chine, SCAC-IFC; for German interns, it should be issued by one of the DIHK in China: Sino-Germany Industry & Commercial Technology Consulting Service Co., Ltd., including the Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou branches.

⑤ Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

(2) Internship duration: between 90 Days and 6 Months

① The applicant shall fill in the Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit - print it out - sign it by the applicant (send copy or fax if needed) - have it stamped with the employer’s or the authorized department’s seal - upload it to the system.

③ Internship contract: in Chinese, and without handwritten alteration.

⑤ Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents: It shall be issued by the police, the security department, or the court of the nationality state or the place of habitual residence of the applicant and certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country’s embassy or consulate in China.

⑥ Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

⑦ Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided. Applicant’s commitment shall apply and a written commitment to physical examination shall be provided before entry.

⑧ Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

2. Application for the Foreigner’s Work Permit after Entering China

(1) Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China’s inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided.

(2) Applicant’s valid visa or residence permit: Visa page, page of latest entry stamp, or page of residence permit of the passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(3) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(III) Notes

1. The term of internship contract shall not exceed 6 months.

2. French students studying in China can apply for internships directly in China without returning to their home countries.

3. The validity period of the Foreigner's Work Permit shall not exceed that of his/her passport, of internship contract, of business license or of other legal registration certificates.

4. If the internship period is 90 days or less, before entering China, the applicant shall apply for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit completely online, and the Foreigner’s Work Permit is not required after entering China.

5. If the internship period is between 90 days (excluding) and less than 6 months, before entering China, the applicant shall apply for the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit completely online, and after entering China, shall submit the originals of all the documents uploaded at the reception window for verification to apply for the Foreigner’s Work Permit.

6. After the completion of the internship, it is not allowed to apply for the extension of the “Foreigner’s Work Permit” marked with the words “Internship”.

(IV) Examination and Approval Period

1. Internship Duration: ≤ 90 Days

Preliminary review period: five working days (for preliminary review and reception, after the complete and qualified documents are submitted).

Review period: five working days (after the documents are accepted online).

2. Internship Duration: between 90 Days and 6 Months

(1) Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit before entering China:

Preliminary review period: five working days (for preliminary review and reception, after the complete and qualified documents are submitted).

Review period: five working days (after the documents are accepted online).

(2) Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit after entering China:

Preliminary review period: five working days (after the complete and qualified documents are submitted).

Review period: ten working days (after the original paper documents are confirmed at the reception window).

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

07 Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit and the Foreigner's Work Permit for Foreign Graduates (Category C)

(I) Scope of Application

Foreign graduates referred to in this Guide are categorized into international students graduating in China and foreign graduates from any of overseas universities, specifically:

1. International Students Graduating in China

(1) International students from any of the universities in Shanghai with a bachelor or above degree who intend to work in China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area, or Hongqiao Central Business District, or to be employed by any organization included in Shanghai sci-tech innovation occupation list.

(2) Outstanding international students from any of universities in China with a master or above degree who intend to work in Shanghai.

2. Foreign Graduates from Any of Overseas Universities

(1) Outstanding foreign graduates from any of world-known foreign universities with a bachelor or above degree, intending to work in China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area, or Hongqiao Central Business District, or to be employed by any organization included in Shanghai sci-tech innovation occupation list.

(2) Outstanding foreign graduates from any of world-known universities with a master or above degree, intending to work in Shanghai.

(II) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(1) Employers shall be established by law with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts; the employment of foreigners shall be for special needs and the appropriate candidates are in short supply domestically in China, while the post doesn’t violate any government regulations; the salary or remuneration for those foreigners shall not be lower than the local minimum wage.

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Aged at least 18, in good health.

(2) Having obtained corresponding academic qualification, degree and professional skills for work.

(3) No bad behavior records at school.

(4) No criminal record.

(5) Having graduated within two years.

(6) Having a specific clearly-defined employer in normal operation and conduction of activities by law within the administration of Shanghai. The employer shall offer a job that fits in with his/her major. The salary shall be no lower than the average of local urban employees in principle.

(7) Having valid passports or any other equivalent international travel certificates.

(8) Other conditions prescribed by laws and regulations.

(III) Documents Required

1. Application for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit before Entering China

(1) Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant (copy or fax if needed) - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Employment intention letter: The employer, content of work, working hours, intended salary, etc. shall be specified and both parties shall sign and stamp on it.

(3) Employment reason report: The official seal of the employer is required.

(4) Complete CV in Chinese: Including education background and internship or work experience, and the official seal of the employer is required.

(5) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents: If the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued by a foreign university, it shall be certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country's embassy or consulate in China, or a Chinese academic certification institution; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China, it shall be certified by a Chinese academic certification institution or notarized by the local notary office; if the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in China's mainland, only the original degree (academic qualification) certificate shall be provided.

In particular, foreign graduates from any of overseas universities shall graduate from overseas high-level universities based on the list of overseas high-level universities published by the Service System for Foreigners Working in China of the State Bureau of Foreign Experts Affairs.

(6) Certificate of no criminal record and certification documents: A certificate of no criminal record shall be issued by the police, the security department, or the court of the nationality state or the place of habitual residence of the applicant and certified by a Chinese embassy or consulate in the related country, or that country's embassy or consulate in China [the place of habitual residence refers to the place (not on the territory of China) where the applicant lives for at least one consecutive year after the applicant left his/her native country]; a certificate of no criminal record issued in Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan of China shall be notarized by the local notary public office. A certificate of no criminal record issued within six months is valid. Personal declarations of no criminal record, for declaration only, are not accepted. A certificate of no criminal record issued by a foreign embassy or consulate in China which is non-declaration of no criminal record can be accepted without further certification.

(7) Certificate of no bad behavior at school of foreign graduates (foreign graduates from any of overseas universities may be exempted from such provision): The seal of the school or the Security Department or the International Students Department is required.

(8) Foreign graduates with a bachelor or above degree working in China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area or Hongqiao Central Business District shall provide a work certificate issued by the Management Committee of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone or Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area, or Hongqiao Central Business District.

(9) Passport or the international travel certificate: Information page. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

(10) Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China's inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided. Applicant's commitment shall apply and a written commitment to physical examination shall be provided before entry.

(11) Bareheaded and full-face photo taken within the last six months. The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

(12) Outstanding foreign graduates shall submit academic performance certificates, indicating the excellent academic performance, with an average score of no less than 80 (hundred-mark system or equivalent) or above B+/B (grading system).

(13) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

2. Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit after Entering China

(1) Applicant's certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China's inspection and quarantine authority.

(2) Applicant's valid visa or residence permit: Visa page, page of latest entry stamp, or page of residence permit of the passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(3) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

3. Application for the Foreigner's Work Permit directly in China

(1) Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit: fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Employment intention letter: The employer, content of work, working hours, intended salary, etc. shall be specified and both parties shall sign and stamp on it.

(3) Employment reason report: The official seal of the employer is required.

(4) Complete CV in Chinese: Including education background and internship or work experience, and the official seal of the employer is required.

(5) The highest degree (academic qualification) certificate and certification documents: If the highest degree (academic qualification) is issued in China's mainland, only the original degree (academic qualification) certificate shall be provided.

(7) Certificate of no bad behavior at school of foreign graduates: The seal of the school or the Security Department or the International Students Department is required.

(8) Foreign graduates with a bachelor or above degree working in China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area or Hongqiao Central Business District shall provide a work certificate issued by the Management Committee of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, Lingang Special Area, or Hongqiao Central Business District.

(9) Foreign graduate's valid passport, valid visa or residence permit for an international student; Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months; visa page, page of latest entry stamp, or page of residence permit.

(10) Certificate of physical examination: A certificate of verification on physical examination for foreigners issued within six months, or a certificate of health examination for foreigners issued within six months, by China's inspection and quarantine authority, shall be provided. When applying for the Foreigner's Work Permit directly in China, foreigners with a valid work-type residence permit may be exempted from providing a certificate of physical examination.

(13) Cancellation letter or leaving certificate: If the foreign graduate changes his/her employer or position within one year after graduation, the existing Foreigner's Work Permit within the valid period shall be cancelled. When applying for a new Foreigner's Work Permit, the foreign graduate, who normally terminates the contract with the previous employer and changes his/her employer in China within one year, shall submit the leaving certificate issued by the previous employer.

(14) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(IV) Notes

1. The validity period of the Foreigner’s Work Permit for foreign graduates working in Shanghai for the first time is one year. Upon expiration of the term of employment, if the employer intends to continue employment, the examination and approval procedures must be handled as required, and the term shall not exceed five years.

2. If the individual income tax paid by foreign graduates is lower than that payable for the intended salary or the salary offered by the employer is lower than the prescribed standard, the Foreigner’s Work Permit shall not be extended.

3. The quota management shall apply to the employment of foreign graduates in Shanghai.

08 Extension of the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Extension of Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

2. Employment contract or employment certificate: Contract in Chinese, employment certificate, or dispatch letter.

3. Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate.

4. Applicant's valid work-type residence permit: Information page of the residence permit.

5. For foreign talents such as legal persons making investment or innovative entrepreneurship and small investors: Those who have a physical office shall submit the documents required, including but not limited to operating status, taxes, and social security payment; those with virtual registration shall submit the documents required, including but not limited to operating status, taxes, and social security payment.

6. Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner's Work Permit in China will be handled online (Category A of foreign high-end talents needn't provide it).

7. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(II) Notes

1. If the employer continues to employ the applicant at the same position (occupation), it shall submit the application to the decision-making authority 30 days or more before the expiration date of the applicant’s work permit.

2. Those who apply for an extension through salary commitment shall submit the relevant certificate.

3. For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, an approval document of the industry competent authority shall be provided.

4. After the online approval, the employer shall update the chip information of the Foreigner’s Work Permit at the reception windows, with the Foreigner’s Work Permit.

09 Change of the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Documents Required

1. Documents Required for Name Change

(1) Application Form for Change of Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) New passport or international travel certificate, and valid residence permit: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate, and information page of the residence permit.

(3) Information page of the previous passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(4) Other credentials for name change.

(5) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

2. Documents Required for Change of Passport Number

(1) Application Form for Change of Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(3) Information page of the previous passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(4) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

3. Documents Required for Title Change

(1) Application Form for Change of Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant- have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Employment contract or employment certificate: Contract in Chinese, employment certificate, or dispatch letter.

(3) Passport or international travel certificate, and valid residence permit: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate, and information page of the residence permit.

(4) A letter of change application (specifying the reasons for change, the new title, etc., and stamped by the employer) and relevant credentials; where there are otherwise different provisions in any relevant law or regulation of the state, such provisions shall apply.

(5) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

4. Documents Required for Category Change

(2) Credentials of category change: If the category is going to be changed into foreign high-end talents (Category A), the relevant certificates shall be submitted.

(3) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(II) Notes

1. In the event of change in the applicant’s personal information (such as name, passport number, title, and category) or other information, an application shall be submitted within ten working days from the date of the confirmation of change.

2. After the online approval, the employer shall update the chip information of the Foreigner’s Work Permit at the reception windows, with the Foreigner’s Work Permit: If the information on either side of the Foreigner’s Work Permit is changed, the previous Foreigner’s Work Permit shall be returned to the reception authority and a new one shall be received.

10 Reissuance of the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Reissuance of Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

2. Applicant's description of loss or damage.

3. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(II) Notes

1. To have the Foreigner's Work Permit reissued, the applicant shall have the announcement of loss released on the Service System for Foreigners Working in China from the date of the loss or the date when discovering the loss, and apply for the reissuance to the permit decision-making authority; if the work permit is damaged, please apply with the original certificate.

2. After the online approval, the employer shall go to the reception authority with the printed receipt confirmation for the new Foreigner's Work Permit.

11 Cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Documents Required

1. Documents required for cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit due to the dissolution of employment, termination of contract, change of employer, etc.

(1) Application Form for Cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Credentials for the dissolution of employment, termination of contract, change of employer, or other causes related to cancellation: In the event of dissolution of employment and termination of contract, the signatures of both the employer and the applicant are required; if the applicant resigns arbitrarily and the employer cannot contact with the applicant, the employer shall submit a description of cancellation.

(3) Foreigner's Work Permit.

(4) Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner's Work Permit in China will be handled online.

(5) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

2. Documents required for cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit due to the nationality change

(1) Application Form for Cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant - have it stamped with the employer's or the authorized department's seal - upload it to the system.

(2) Passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate.

(3) Information page of the previous passport (or of the international travel certificate).

(4) Foreigner's Work Permit.

(5) Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner's Work Permit in China will be handled online.

(6) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

3. Documents required for cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit due to the employer's termination by law

(1) Application Form for Cancellation of the Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out – sign it by the applicant - and the employer's seal is not necessarily required.

(2) Relevant credentials for failure to apply for cancellation due to the employer's termination by law.

(3) The applicant's personal description of the cancellation.

(4) Foreigner's Work Permit.

(5) Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner's Work Permit in China will be handled online.

(6) Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

(II) Notes

1. The Foreigner's Work Permit shall be automatically canceled if it is not renewed after the expiry date; the Foreigner's Work Permit shall be canceled by the decision-making authority if it has been revoked or withdrawn by law or the license has been revoked by law; if the applicant dies or loses his/her living capacity or terminates the contract in advance or relinquishes the employment relationship, the employer shall apply for cancellation within ten days from the date of the occurrence of the matter; if the employer is terminated, the applicant may apply for cancellation to the decision-making authority on his/her own.

2. If the Foreigner's Work Permit has been automatically canceled, upon application, the decision-making authority may issue a certificate of cancellation.

12 Transition Period of the Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit (Extension, Reissuance, Failure for Annual Inspection on Time, Changing, Cancellation, Annual Inspection)

(I) The previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit needs to be extended or reissued, or the previous Alien Employment Permit has not been inspected annually on time

1. Applicable Objects

Foreign nationals with a valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit, and a valid work-type residence permit.

2. Reception Window

To handle the extension or reissuance of the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit or the overdue annual inspection of the previous Alien Employment Permit, the employer shall register in the Service System for Foreigners Working in China before going to the reception window.

3. Application Period

(1) To extend the Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit: If the employer continues to employ the applicant at the same position, it shall submit the application to the reception authority 30 days or more before the expiration date of the applicant's work permit.

(2) To reissue the Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit: The applicant shall have the announcement of loss released on the Service System for Foreigners Working in China from the date of the loss or the date when discovering the loss, and apply for the reissuance to the permit decision-making authority.

(3) To handle overdue annual inspection of the previous Alien Employment Permit: The application shall be submitted to the decision-making authority within ten working days from the date of the matter.

4. Documents Required

(1) To extend the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit

The employer shall enter the account - select the option “Extend the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit” from the left menu- enter the application page.

① Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit;

② Employment contract or employment certificate (contract in Chinese, appointment letter, dispatch letter);

③ Applicant's passport and valid residence permit;

④ The Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit with more than 30 days of validity period before the expiration date;

⑤ Applicant's bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago;

⑥ Letter of commitment indicating that all the issues concerning the Foreigner's Work Permit in China will be handled online;

⑦ Other documents.

(2) To reissue the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit

The employer shall enter the account - click the “Work Permit for Foreigners Working In China” button on the left - select “Apply for the Foreigner's Work Permit directly in China” - choose the option “10 Those other qualified who are identified by approval authorities” on the right- enter the application page.

① Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit;

② The valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit (necessary in the event of damage);

③ Applicant's passport and valid residence permit;

④ Applicant's bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago;

⑤ Applicant's description of loss or damage: If the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit is lost, the applicant shall, from the date of the loss or the date when discovering the loss, apply for the reissuance to the permit decision-making authority; if the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit is damaged, please take it for applying for a new one;

⑥ Other documents.

(3) To handle overdue annual inspection of the previous Alien Employment Permit:

The previous Alien Employment Permit shall become invalid. The employer shall enter the account - select the option “Extend the previous Alien Employment Permit or Foreign Expert Certificate” on the left - enter the application page; when the new one is received, the previous Alien Employment Permit shall become invalid and may be returned to the applicant.

① Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit;

② Employment contract or employment certificate (contract in Chinese, appointment letter, dispatch letter);

③ Applicant's passport and valid residence permit;

④ Alien Employment Permit;

⑤ Applicant's bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago;

⑥ Other documents.

5. Notes

(1) The employer shall print out and stamp on the automatically issued Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit signed by the applicant, and upload its original in color to Annex.

(2) Employment contract or employment certificate (contract in Chinese, appointment letter, dispatch letter):

①The submitted contract shall be in Chinese, signed by the applicant and stamped by the employer, with the date of signature, and no handwritten alteration is allowed. The contract content shall include the first page of contract, term of contract, work place, work content, salary, position, and page of seal (signature).

②The period from the starting date of the extension of the employment contract and the expiry date of the Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit shall be continuous and uninterrupted.

(3) The documents that shall be uploaded to “Others” in the Annex: personal information page and the latest validity page of the Foreign Expert Certificate; the personal information page, the latest validity page, and the annual inspection page of the previous year of the Alien Employment Permit.

(4) If the previous Alien Employment Permit has not been inspected on time and the date of submission is more than 90 days before its expiration, the extension channel is not available, the channel “10 In China” shall be selected to provide relevant documents in accordance with the requirements for extension application, and a description of the matter shall be submitted.

(5) The applicants with a valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit shall be defaulted as Foreign Professionals; if the applicant meets the criteria for foreign high-end talents. The employer shall submit the relevant credentials and upload them to “Other Documents” in the system.

(II) The previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit needs to be extended or cancelled, or the previous Alien Employment Permit needs to be inspected annually on time

1. Applicable Objects

Foreign nationals with a valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit, and a valid work-type residence permit.

2. Reception Window

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China)

Address: Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District

3. Application Period

(1) To change or cancel the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit: The application shall be submitted to the decision-making authority within ten working days from the date of the matter.

(2) To handle annual inspection of the previous Alien Employment Permit: The employer shall submit an application at the reception window within three months before the expiration date of the previous Alien Employment Permit.

4. Procedure

If the previous Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit needs to be changed or cancelled, or the previous Alien Employment Permit needs to be inspected annually on time, it can be handled at the reception window offline.

13 Replacement of the Previous Foreign Expert Certificate or the Alien Employment Permit for the Foreigner's Work Permit

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

Foreign nationals with a valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit, and a valid work-type residence permit.

(II) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Replacement (with the Official Seal of the Employer);

2. Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit;

3. Applicant's passport and valid work-type residence permit;

4. Valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit;

5. Other credentials that the issuing authority deems necessary.

(III) Notes

1. The employer shall print out and stamp on the automatically issued Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit signed by the applicant and upload its original in color to Annex.

2. The documents that shall be uploaded to “Others” in the Annex: personal information page and the latest validity page of the Foreign Expert Certificate; the personal information page, the latest validity page, and the annual inspection page of the previous year of the Alien Employment Permit.

3. The applicants with a valid Foreign Expert Certificate or Alien Employment Permit who apply for replacement shall be defaulted as foreign professionals; if the applicant meets the criteria for foreign high-end talents. The employer shall submit the relevant credentials and upload them to “Other Documents” in the system.

III.Guide to Application for Foreigner's Work Permit (≤ 90 Days Working in China)

14 Application for Foreigner's Work Permit (≤ 90 Days Working in China)

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Basic Requirements for Employers

(2) For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

2. Basic Requirements for Applicants

(1) Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

(2)Those applicants shall engage in urgently needed jobs in China and can make contributions to China's economic and social development.

(3) The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

(4) Foreigners who enter China to complete short-term work tasks refer to those who enter China for the following reasons and stay for no more than 90 days;

① To complete a certain technology, scientific research, management, or guidance work with the domestic partner;

② To conduct trial training in a domestic sports institution (including coaches and athletes);

③ To film (including advertising films, documentaries);

④ To perform fashion shows (car models, shooting print advertisements, etc.);

⑤ Other circumstances determined by the relevant departments.

(II) Legal Basis

1. Notice on Issuing the Service Guide to the Foreigner's Work Permit in China (No. 36 [2017] the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

2. Notice on Issuing the Relevant Handling Procedures for a Foreign National's Entry into China to Complete a Short-term Work Assignment (Trial) (No. 78 [2014] the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security), issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Public Security, and Ministry of Culture.

(III) Requirements for Documents Provided

1. All paper versions of original documents and the translated Chinese versions must be electronically uploaded in color to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

2. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

3. No paper documents shall be submitted for verification.

(IV) Documents Required

1. Application Form for Foreigner's Work Permit: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant (send copy or fax if needed) - have it stamped with the employer's seal - upload it to the system.

2. Work contract, project contract (cooperation agreement) or description of invitation from an employer;

3. Passport or the international travel certificate;

4. Complete resume in Chinese and foreign languages (including detailed personal information, education and work experience, with the official seal of the employer);

5. Foreigners applying for the completion of professional and technical tasks shall provide relevant academic qualifications or technical (vocational) qualification documents (e.g. model card) in accordance with relevant provisions of China;

6. Other credentials prescribed by the approval authority.

(V) Notes

1. The contract term, working hours and place of work shall be consistent with the actual working conditions.

2. In the event of dispatch in a short-term work task, the complete basic information and the three-party agreement involving the dispatching party, the applicant and the domestic employer shall be provided.

3. The items involved in the contract include: the term of the contract is no more than 90 days; the places of work are up to five cities (including Shanghai) without repetition; the content of the work shall not exceed the business scope of the employer; the average monthly wage of short-term workers; short-term workers shall buy an insurance before entering China; short-term workers must not work on part-time.

4. Employers and foreign nationals shall ensure the authenticity of what they have submitted and been committed to, and actively cooperate with the approving authorities in interviews and operational and post-operational supervision and verification. For those who make false promises, the approving authorities are entitled to cancel administrative decisions in accordance with laws and regulations, and suspend the handling of work permits for employers, agencies and foreigners. Violations of laws and regulations shall be lawfully dealt with.

(VI) Examination and Approval Period

Preliminary review period: five working days (after the complete and qualified documents are submitted online by the employer).

Review and decision-making period: five working days (from the date of reception).

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

(VII) Reception Way and Time

1. Reception Way

(1) Reception at the Window

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China)

Address: Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners' Work Permit and Residence Permit)

(2) Online Reception

Please directly access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn

2. Reception Time

Hotline: 800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile phone)

15 Application for Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts for Short-term Stay in China

(I) Applicable Objects

1. Having the status of a legal person and the ability to employ foreign experts.

2. Having clear tasks to work in China.

3. Having a detailed schedule in China.

4. Having sufficient fees to ensure that foreign experts come to China.

5. In accordance with the requirements for foreign high-end talents (Category A) or the Notice on Further Improving Relevant Handling Procedures for the Short-Term Stay of Foreign Experts in China (No. 176 [2015] the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs).

(II) Legal Basis

1. Notice on Further Improving Relevant Handling Procedures for the Short-Term Stay of Foreign Experts in China (No. 176 [2015] the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

2. Notice on Issuing the Service Guide to the Foreigner’s Work Permit in China (Trial) (No. 36 [2017] the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

(III) Requirements for Documents Provided

1. All paper versions of original documents and the translated Chinese versions must be electronically uploaded in color to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

2. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

3. No paper documents shall be submitted for verification.

(IV) Documents Required

1. The Application Form of the Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts in China (which specifies the applicant's basic information, the reason for coming to China, the length of stay in China, the specific cost arrangement, and the employer's commitment to the authenticity of the invitation and the guarantee of the payment of fees in China) shall be stamped with an official seal of the employer.

2. The Application Form for the Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts in China shall be stamped with an official seal of the employer.

3. Foreign expert's passport or international travel certificate.

4. A copy of the short-term employment contract or dispatch (invitation) letter shall be affixed with an official seal of the employer and signed by the legal person or the person in charge of the Foreign Affairs Department.

5. Other credentials that the issuing authority deems necessary (e.g. those who conform to foreign high-end talents (Category A) shall submit the relevant certificates).

(V) Notes

1. The applicant with the Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts in China who applies for F visa have no need to apply for a work-type residence permit after entering China.

2. For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law or those who are qualified for relevant accessible occupations, an approval document of the industry competent authority or a certificate of work qualification shall be provided.

3. Employers and foreign nationals shall ensure the authenticity of what they have submitted and been committed to, and actively cooperate with the approving authorities in interviews and operational and post-operational supervision and verification. For those who make false promises, the approving authorities are entitled to cancel administrative decisions in accordance with laws and regulations, and suspend the handling of work permits for employers, agencies and foreigners. Violations of laws and regulations shall be lawfully dealt with.

(VI) Procedure

1. The employer of the foreign expert shall submit an application in the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

2. The handling authority shall receive the application of the employer and inform the reception result within five working days (the date on which the documents are submitted shall not be counted).

3. Upon reception online, the decision-making authority shall, within five working days from the date of reception, conduct an examination and make a decision, and no paper documents shall be submitted for verification no longer.

4. Those foreign experts approved by the handling authority will be issued with the Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts in China.

5. Foreign experts shall apply for an F visa within 90 days to the visa authority with the Invitation Letter for Foreign Experts in China and relevant documents.

(VII) Examination and Approval Period

Preliminary review period: five working days (after the complete and qualified documents are submitted online by the employer).

Review and decision-making period: five working days (from the date of reception).

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

(VIII) Reception Way and Time

1. Reception Way

(1) Reception at the Window

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China).

Address: Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District;

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners’ Work Permit and Residence Permit).

(2) Online Reception

2. Reception Time

Hotline: 800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile phone)

IV.Guide to Application for Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents

16 Application for Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents

I. Scope of Application

This Guide is applicable to the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents issued by the inviting employers established legally in the People’s Republic of China which apply for R visa on behalf of foreign high-end talents.

II. Applicable Objects

(I) Basic Requirements for Inviting Employers

1. Employers shall be established by law with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts.

2. For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

(II) Basic Requirements for Applicants

1. Capable applicants with good credit records shall be at least 18 years old, in good health, without a criminal record, and have a clearly-defined employer in China.

2. The scientists, science and technology leading talents, international entrepreneurs, special talents who meet the orientation of “high-levels, elites, top leaderships, and urgently-needed people” and market demands and can contribute to China’s economic and social development shall conform to the Conditions for Foreign High-end Talents (Category A) in the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial). The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Security, may timely adjust the identification standards for foreign high-end talents in the light of the needs of economic and social development and the supply and demand of human resources. (Please refer to the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality / Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/, and Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms at http://ftsh.sgst.cn)

3. Foreign researchers participating in national task forces and young foreign talents, including recent doctoral graduates from key disciplines such as science, engineering, agriculture and medicine, upon identification by the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs), may directly apply for the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents according to relevant regulations, and may apply for R visa with a validity period of up to 10 years.

4. The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

III. Legal Basis

1. Article 16 under Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China: Visas are categorized as diplomatic visa, courtesy visa, official visa and ordinary visa. Appropriate types of ordinary visa shall be issued to foreigners who enter China due to non-diplomatic or official reasons including work, study, family visit, travel, business activities and talent introduction. The types of ordinary visa and relevant issuance measures shall be stipulated by the State Council.

2. Article 6 under Regulations of the People’s Republic of China on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners: Ordinary visas are divided into the following categories and shall be marked with corresponding letters in the Chinese phonetic alphabet. The R visa is issued to foreigners of high talent who are needed, or specialists who are urgently needed, by the State.

Article 7: To apply for the R visa, the applicant shall meet the qualifications and requirements set by the competent authorities of the Chinese government for inviting persons of high talent or urgently needed specialists, and the applicant shall, in accordance with relevant provisions, submit the relevant certification documents.

3. Notice on Issuing the Implementation Measures for Foreign Talent Visas (No. 218 [2017] the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs), issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Public Security.

IV. Requirements for Documents Provided

1. All paper versions of original documents and the translated Chinese versions must be electronically uploaded to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

2. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the inviting employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

3. The Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents shall be applied online, and no paper documents shall be submitted for verification.

V. Procedure

1. In the event of the first use of the Service System for Foreigners Working in China, the inviting employer shall access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn for registration.

2. After filling in employer information and uploading and submitting all the original documents, without the necessity to wait for the system’s feedback, the inviting employer shall take the original Employer Registration Form and the originals and copies of all employer documents (and stamped with the official seal) for real-name registration at the reception window at the Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China). Upon approval, the reception authority shall not notify separately.

3. The inviting employer shall refer to the Guide to Application for Foreigner’s Work Permit (Trial) for documents required for registration: the employer or the authorized service agency shall register an account online and use the system once certified at the reception window.

4. The inviting employer shall access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China for application via the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents for Talents’ Visa.

5. The employer shall truthfully fill in the applicant’s basic information, education background, work experience, application information, etc., and upload the original documents required in color.

6. After uploading all the original documents, the inviting employer shall submit them for reception; upon approval, the inviting employer shall wait for reception and the issuing authority’s examination of the application for the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents.

VI. Documents Required

1. Application for Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents: Fill in the online application - print it out - sign it by the applicant (send copy or fax if needed) – have it stamped with the inviting employer’s seal - upload it to the system.

2. Domestic employer’s letter of invitation: The letter of invitation issued by the inviting employer and stamped with the official seal of the inviting employer or that of the authorized department shall be uploaded to the system.

3. Relevant credentials for qualified R visa applicants who are foreign high-end talents (Category A) up to the Evaluation Criteria for Foreigners Employed in China (Trial):

(1) Those who are selected in domestic programs for talents introduction: should submit relevant certificates, credentials or supporting documents containing the selected persons (such as officially released list).

(2) Those conform to the internationally recognized identification criteria for professional achievement: shall submit the relevant certificates or credentials of such reward or award.

(3) Those who fulfill the market demand for government-encouraged jobs: shall submit the relevant credentials of the employer (please refer to the Guide to Application for Foreigner’s Work Permit (Trial)) and the relevant credentials as a talent, e.g. a certificate of work qualification in a Chinese employer or a letter of invitation by an employer to provide corporate management or technical support.

(4) Those innovative and entrepreneurial talents: shall submit investment certificates such as an enterprise capital verification report (actual payment of registered capital) issued within 12 months and relevant credentials for talents to own major technological inventions, patents and other independent intellectual property rights or proprietary technologies.

(5) Outstanding young talents: shall provide postdoctoral certificate(s).

(6) Applicants with 85 points or above: shall provide credentials.

4. Applicant’s passport or international travel certificate: Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate. The valid period of the passport shall be no less than six months.

5. Applicant’s bareheaded and full-face photo taken no more than six months ago: The full-faced bareheaded electronic photo shall be frameless with a white background carrying the facial features clearly shown, and clean without any spots, flaws or ink defects. Hats or other head coverings are only allowed if worn for religious reasons without obscuring any facial features.

6. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the issuing authority.

VII. Notes

1. Foreign talents who meet the market-oriented salary standards of Shanghai with an annual salary in China of RMB 600,000 Yuan and taxes of RMB 120,000 Yuan in Shanghai shall also submit documents such as an employment contract (dispatch letter). Shanghai Administrative Department of Foreigners may timely adjust the salary standard in accordance with the needs of economic and social development and the supply and demand of human resources.

2. In salary-related applications, both the employer and the applicant shall submit a letter of commitment (including the monthly (/yearly) salary for foreign nationals, monthly (/yearly) tax amount in Shanghai, place of tax payment, signed by the applicant and stamped with the official seal of the employer), the receiving or decision-making authority may require the employer to provide the corresponding tax payment certificate in handling the next business.

3. Applicants with 85 points or above shall provide the highest degree (academic qualification) certificate, vocational qualifications, Chinese proficiency certificate (HSK Chinese Proficiency Test Certificate), employment contract (dispatch letter), proof of annual salary in China, work qualification certificate, etc.

4. The involvement of local encouragement extra credit in the score-based system refers to that, urgently needed talents who meet the needs of the economic and social development of Shanghai, an industry association identified by the competent department at a higher level or the competent department of the industry may issue a letter of recommendation and give an extra credit up to 10 points. They mainly include other foreign nationals invited by foreign-funded R&D centers in a real need; other foreign nationals invited by state-owned enterprises and their secondary subsidiaries, global or regional headquarters of the world’s top 500 enterprises, national high-tech enterprises, state-recognized enterprise engineering research centers, engineering laboratories, engineering technology research centers, enterprise technology centers and local technological innovation service platforms in a real need; innovative and entrepreneurial talents recommended by the competent department of talents at the district level; other special expertise in urgent need of Shanghai.

5. For foreigners who enter China for work on R visa, the employer shall apply for the Foreigner’s Work Permit as required by the policy for Foreigner’s Work Permit issued by the Administrative Department for Foreigner’s Work in China.

6. The reception authority or the decision-making authority may request the employer to submit corrected version if there is any discrepancy between the Chinese translation and the original.

7. Upon approval online, the employer shall print out the Confirmation Letter for Foreign High-end Talents after its being issued automatically by the system.

8. Policy Release

For policies, guides, and some sample forms and commitments for Foreigner’s Work Permit, please refer to the website of the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs) at http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/, and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms at http://ftsh.sgst.cn

9. Employers and foreign talents shall ensure the authenticity of what they have submitted and been committed to, and actively cooperate with the approving authorities in interviews and operational and post-operational supervision and verification. For those who make false promises, the approving authorities are entitled to cancel administrative decisions in accordance with laws and regulations, and suspend the handling of work permits for employers, agencies and foreigners. Violations of laws and regulations shall be lawfully dealt with.

VIII. Examination and Approval Period

Preliminary review period: one working day (until the complete and qualified documents are submitted).

Review period: five working days (from the day when the documents are accepted online).

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

IX. Reception Way and Department

1. Reception Way

Only Online Reception

Please directly access to the website of the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (The State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs of Ministry of Science and Technology of the PRC) at https://fwp.safea.gov.cn

2. Reception Department and Address

Reception department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China) shall be responsible for reception and examination.

Address: Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners’ Work Permit and Residence Permit)

3. Issuing Authority

Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs shall be responsible for decision-making.

4. Reception Time

Hotline: 800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile phone)

V.Guide to Application for Foreign High-level Talents Qualification

17 Application for Foreign High-level Talents Qualification

I. Applicable Objects

(I) Basic Requirements for Employers

1. Employers shall be established by law with actual business premises, pay taxes and social insurances according to law, without serious illegal and dishonest acts; the employment of foreigners shall be for special needs and the appropriate candidates are in short supply domestically in China, while the post doesn’t violate any government regulations; the salary or remuneration for those foreigners shall not be lower than the local minimum wage.

2. For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

(II) Basic Requirements for Applicants

1. Capable applicants shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

2. Capable applicants who come to Shanghai for scientific and technological cooperation, academic exchanges or starting a business shall meet the provisions in Recognition Standards of Foreign High-level Talents.

3. The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

II. Legal Basis

Implementing Opinions on Further Deepening the Reform of the Systems and Mechanisms for Talent Development and Speeding up the Construction of Science and Technology Innovation Center with Global Influence (No. 19 [2016] the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee), issued by the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee and Shanghai Municipal People’s Government

III. Standards for Documents Provided

1. Non-Chinese credentials shall be translated into Chinese and stamped with the official seal of the employer (except for passports and international travel certificates).

2. All the documents required should be stamped with the official seal of the employer.

IV. Documents Required

1. The employer’s legal registration proof.

2. Official letter for application issued by the employer to Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs.

3. Application Form of Foreign High-level Talents Qualification

4. Information page of the passport or of the international travel certificate.

5. Those who apply for work residence permit (with Talent option) should submit employment contract or employment certificate; those who apply for R visa should submit the intent employment agreement of the employer or the invitation letter of the inviter.

6. Documents proving his/her meeting one of the provisions in Recognition Standards of Foreign High-level Talents.

(1) Foreign high-end talents: should submit the Foreigner’s Work Permit (Category A); those whose “average salary income is no less than 6 times the social average salary income of the previous year in Shanghai” should also submit the tax payment certificate of the previous year.

(2) Well-known scholars and experts: Certificates of award or program winner are required; those experts who hold leadership or important positions in foreign government agencies, well-known international organizations or NGOs should provide employment certificate.

(3) Technological innovation talents: Those experts and scholars who hold deputy senior or higher titles (positions) or major leadership positions in the units of education, scientific research, press and publication, sports, health and others in Shanghai or who enjoy the same treatment in these units should submit the employment letter or certificate of deputy senior and higher professional technical titles (positions) or the proof of appointment for professional and technical positions of deputy senior level or above (enjoying the same treatment) issued by the employer; the foreign core members of the team undertaking major national or municipal programs, and those of the leading team in scientific research and innovation, should submit the proofs of the program undertaken and certificate of core members; those key foreign researchers, foreign engineers and other sci-tech talents who are well equipped with professional knowledge and practical competence, and work in the core team of scientific and technological innovation enterprises should submit professional competence credentials and certificate of core members; certificates of those high-tech enterprises and sci-tech little giant enterprises are required; those who start a business in Shanghai (with registered capital generally no less than US$ 200,000, personal shares no less than 30%, and as the largest shareholder) should submit investment proofs such as enterprise capital verification report (with registered capital paid in) issued within 12 months and independent intellectual property rights or proprietary technologies such as major technological inventions, patents, etc. if there is any; those talents that meet other recognition standards of this category should submit relevant certification documents.

(4) Enterprise talents: The approval certificates issued by relevant commercial departments to headquarters of multinational companies in Shanghai, R&D centers, investment companies, foreign-invested companies encouraged in Shanghai, foreign-invested advanced technology companies, or foreign-invested product export companies are required; the capital verification report (with registered capital paid in) and other supporting documents issued within 12 months are required for those enterprises with registered capital no less than US$3 million and those private enterprises; certification documents issued by relevant departments at national or municipal level are required for those enterprise engineering research centers (identified by the development and reform department), engineering labs (identified by the development and reform department), engineering technology research centers (identified by the science and technology department), enterprise technology centers (identified by the industry and information technology department), and Shanghai technical innovation service platforms (identified by the science and technology department); for those who have special expertise and outstanding professional competence, and those senior technicians urgently needed in Shanghai, certificates and proofs of relevant competence are required.

(5) Young talents: should submit certificates of doctorate (degree).

7. Letter of commitments by the employer and the employee.

8. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority or the decision-making authority.

V. Procedure

1. The employer submits an application for recognition to the reception authority, providing application documents as required.

2. Within five working days from the date of acceptance, the reception authority will review the documents and, if eligible, submit them to Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs for review.

3. The Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs will review and make a decision within 10 working days upon receiving the documents. If approval is granted, a Recommendation Letter for Shanghai Foreign High-level Talents’ Handling Entry and Exit will be issued online, and it can be downloaded and printed.

VI. Examination and Approval Period

1. Preliminary review period: five working days (after the online acceptance).

2. Review period: ten working days

In case of special circumstances requiring an extension of time limit, the reception authority or the decision-making authority shall handle the matter as appropriate.

VII. Reception Way and Time

(I) Reception Way

1. Online Reception

Access to Government Online-Offline Shanghai (http://zwdt.sh.gov.cn/govPortals/index.do) via ECA (electronic certificate authority), switch to the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, click “Foreigner’s Work Permit in China”, then click “Foreigner’s Work Permit in China (>90 days)”, to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Or, access to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China directly via Government Online-Offline Shanghai (https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp).

2. Reception Department and Address

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center / Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China)

Municipal Reception Address:

Address: Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners’ Work Permit and Residence Permit)

(II) Reception Time

Hotline: 800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile phone)

VI.Guide to Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange (Trial)

18 Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange

I. Applicable Objects

(I) Basic Requirements for Employers

2. For pre-approval by the industry competent authority by law, it shall be approved.

(II) Basic Requirements for Applicants

1. Capable applicants with qualified professional skills or knowledge shall have a clearly-defined employer in China and shall be at least 18 years old in good health and without criminal record.

2. Those applicants shall engage in urgently needed jobs in China and can make contributions to China’s economic and social development.

3. The laws and regulations which have special provisions, if any, for the employment of foreigners in China shall prevail.

4. Those applicants shall have remuneration from a legal job in Shanghai.

II. Legal Basis

Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange’s Shanghai Branch on a Trial Program of Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange

III. Procedure

Please fill in the Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange on the Service System for Foreigners Working in China (https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp). Download and duplex-print it to be signed by the applicant and affixed with the official seal of the employer before it is uploaded to the system. There is no need to wait for the results of the preliminary review. The applicant or the handler shall present the original documents at the reception windows.

IV. Applicant

The employer or the foreign talent. (The employer shall send a handler who has registered at the Service System for Foreigners Working in China to submit the paper documents at the reception windows.)

V. Documents Required

(I) New Applicant

1. Foreigner’s Work Permit

2. Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange

3. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority

(II) Change (of employer, remuneration, etc.)

1. Foreigner’s Work Permit

2. Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange (Old Version)

3. Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange (New Version)

4. Other documents: Documents provided as required by the reception authority.

VI. Notes

1. Please safely keep the Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange and present it to the handling bank every time when handling remuneration foreign exchange business.

2. The Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange shall be valid for two years.

3. If the Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange has expired, been changed, etc., and balance transfer is to be registered, please submit the original copy at the reception window for renewal, and transfer the balance to the new pass.

4. The Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange carries important information, and shall not be replaced if lost. In case of a loss, remuneration foreign exchange business shall be handled at the bank counter upon your valid ID, labor contract, income certificate and income tax certificate.

5. The Fast Pass on Foreign Talents Remuneration Foreign Exchange shall be duplex-printed.

VII. Reception Way and Time

(I) Reception Way

1. Reception at the Window

Reception Department: The Administrative Center of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms (Shanghai S&T Talents Development Center/Shanghai Service Center for Foreigners Working in China)

Municipal Reception Address:

Windows 1-4, Shanghai Science & Technology Administrative Service Center, 1F, Jimao Building, 1525 West Zhongshan Road, Xuhui District

Windows 17-19, 3F, 1500 Minsheng Road, Pudong New Area (Single Window for Foreigners’ Work Permit and Residence Permit)

For other sites, please refer to the list of names and addresses of the handling authorities (at the website of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs) http://stcsm.sh.gov.cn/wzj/ and the website of Shanghai R&D Public Service Platforms http://ftsh.sgst.cn

2. Online Reception

(II) Reception Time

Hotlines:800-820-5114 (Landline)

400-820-5114 (Mobile Phone)

VII.Windows for Handling Foreigner's Work Permit in Shanghai

This Guide is written in multiple languages. In case of any discrepancy, the Chinese version shall prevail.

Matters not mentioned in this Guide shall be subject to the relevant administrative provisions of the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs. The Shanghai Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs is responsible for the interpretation of this Guide.