Shenzhen Launches Integrated Online Platform for Work Permit and Residence Permit Applications

The situation

Shenzhen launched an integrated online platform, the Shenzhen Foreigner Integrated Service Management Platform, for employers to simultaneously submit foreign nationals’ Work and Residence Permit applications which are then processed and issued at the same time.

A closer look

• Shortened processing time. As a result of the integrated process, the government will be able to process Work and Residence Permit applications in as few as seven business days; previously, it took at least 15 business days and the work permit was issued before the residence permit.
• Data sharing between authorities. The application documents and information will be shared between the Foreign Expert Bureau and the Public Security Bureau in Shenzhen through the integrated platform.  
• Registration required. In order to file the applications using the platform, employers must complete a one-time registration on the Shenzhen Foreigner Integrated Service Management Platform.

 

Impact

• Streamlined processing. Foreign nationals seeking to work in Shenzhen will find a streamlined process for applying for Work and Residence Permits, allowing them to commence work earlier due to reduced processing times.
• Decreased data input. Additionally, since two government agencies have access to the platform, employers will not need to input the same data multiple times in order to sponsor foreign nationals.

 

Background

• Innovation to attract talent. In recent years, Shenzhen has been making an effort to attract international, highly-skilled professionals to the city. Specifically, the city of Shenzhen is part of the Greater Bay Area, which is currently being developed by the Chinese government as part of an economic plan to advance technology and innovation and increase infrastructure in the region. The new online platform is part of this drive, making it more convenient for employers and foreign nationals to submit Work and Residence Permits.
• Streamlined online processes in other cities. The move to an online platform for immigration applications in Shenzhen follows the implementation of an online system in Shanghai for the submission of work permits.

 

Looking ahead

Further details on the online platform are expected to be issued as the platform begins its trial phase.  Fragomen is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.

Fragomen in China is Fragomen (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., operating exclusively as an immigration consultancy and not as a law firm in China. This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].