Shenzhen Entry and Exit Requirements Update
July 15, 2015
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Shenzhen has recently updated its entry and exit requirements for foreign nationals coming to the city for work or business travel. This article summarizes the changes and the implications for businesses and their sponsored foreign nationals.
Visa-free travel for Taiwanese residents
From 1 July 2015, Taiwanese residents are eligible for visa-free travel to mainland China using only a Compatriot Travel Certificate, which allows these travelers to enter, stay and reside in the country.
The new regulation was implemented by the Ministry of Public Security and is effective throughout the country and not just in Shenzhen.
Additional requirements for Philippine nationals
The Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Bureau now requires Philippine passport holders to provide additional documents relating to their job position when applying for the Z Visa Invitation Letter. These include:
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Resume;
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Diploma; and
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Qualification certificates related to the job position applied for.
If the applicant is unable to provide the requested additional supporting documents, their application may be delayed or rejected.
Faster application and renewal of Residence Permits
Since 5 June 2015, the processing time for initial applications and renewals of Residence Permits has been shortened to seven working days, from ten working days previously.
New requirements for Work Permit applications and renewals
The new system introduced by the Labor Bureau means there are two steps for Work Permit applications and renewals:
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Submit an online declaration; and
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Hand over all documentation to the Bureau.
Since June 2015, all supporting documents must be uploaded in 1:1 JPG format. Documents required may include:
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Passport copy;
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Up to date resume;
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Copy of diploma, including a translation;
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Copy of physical examination report; and
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Scanned copy of the employment contract.
Summary
As a result of the authorities becoming more efficient, the Shenzhen application process itself is becoming more efficient. However, the authorities have also adopted stricter evaluations of applicants. Consequently, applicants must show eligibility in the very first step when applying for a Z Visa Invitation Letter.
Once a foreign national is in China and wishes to apply for a Work Permit, the authorities will thoroughly review applicants as they complete their online application. By doing so, the authorities intend to ensure a smoother ongoing process and shorter processing time overall.
