Hainan to ease permanent residence application for certain foreigners

South China's Hainan province will ease the permanent residence application for more high-level foreign talents, according to the Entry and Exit Administration Bureau of the Hainan Provincial Department of Public Security.

Foreigners who have invested in innovative enterprises in Hainan for three consecutive years and have a good tax payment record can apply for permanent residence upon the recommendation of the provincial government.

In addition, long-term visas and residence permits will be issued to more foreigners, including those doing business, working or studying in the province, the administration bureau said.

Foreign talents, who are invited by China's universities, scientific research institutes, and well-known enterprises for technology cooperation and trade, as well as their team members and supporting staff, will be able to get their visas or resident permits valid for two to five years.

Hainan is also considering setting up immigration affairs service centers or stations in areas with a large population of foreigners to make their working, studying, and living in the province more convenient.