China: New Visa for Young Scientific and Technological Talent Forthcoming
August 19, 2025
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At a Glance
- The Chinese government has announced the introduction of a new visa category, the K visa, effective October 1, 2025.
- The K visa is designed for young foreign scientific and technological talent and is expected to offer more flexibility than other visas in terms of the number of entries, validity periods and permitted durations of stay, as well as a streamlined application process.
The situation
On August 14, 2025, Chinese Premier Li Qiang signed a State Council decree promulgating amendments to the Regulations of the People’s Republic of China on the Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreign Nationals. Among the changes is the addition of the K visa to the list of ordinary visa categories.
A closer look
- Scope. The K visa will be applicable to foreign nationals recognized as young scientific and technological talent, enabling them to participate in exchanges, science and technology events and activities, entrepreneurship, and business activities in China.
- Eligibility. Eligible applicants will include those who have:
- Graduated from recognized domestic or international universities or research institutions with a bachelor’s degree or higher in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields; or
- Engaged in professional education or scientific research work in relevant fields at such institutions.
- Benefits. The K visa is expected to offer more flexibility than other visas in terms of the number of entries, validity periods and permitted durations of stay, as well as a streamlined application process.
Impact
This visa is expected to broaden access to global talent, particularly for organizations seeking to collaborate with foreign innovators and researchers without formal employment arrangements.
It is not yet clear whether or which work activities would be allowed under this visa. We will publish updates when the government clarifies the situation.
Background
By adding this new classification, the government aims to make the country a more attractive destination for promising young talent in science and technology, in line with its strategic priorities for innovation and global collaboration.
Looking ahead
Specific visa criteria and procedural details will be published on Chinese government websites soon. Fragomen will monitor developments and 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].
