Mainland China: New Combined Work and Residence Processing Window Launched in Hangzhou

The Hangzhou Science and Technology Bureau and Hangzhou Public Security Bureau have partnered to launch Hangzhou’s first dedicated service window for foreign work and residence permits. This new “one-stop” window, located at the Chengxi Sci-tech Innovation Corridor Immigration Service Center of Hangzhou Exit-Entry Administration Bureau in Yuhang District, is accessible to all foreign nationals working in Hangzhou. The window streamlines the application process for foreign nationals entering Mainland China by allowing the simultaneous processing of work and residence permits. Previously, applicants had to secure a work permit before applying separately for a residence permit. With this new system, employers can now submit a single online application on behalf of their foreign workers. Once the pre-review process is complete, applicants complete the remaining steps onsite, receiving both permits together. This simplifies the process by reducing onsite visits and integrating information systems, cutting the overall processing time to approximately 10 business days, down from 20 days. Following this initial launch, the government plans to extend these dedicated service windows to additional urban areas to offer foreign workers more convenient, efficient, and user-friendly services.