Recently, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced that starting from December 1, 2024, the foreign work permit will be merged with the social security card. The information from the original work permit will be integrated into the social security card, providing greater convenience for foreigners working and living in China. On November 25, the website for foreign work permit applications in China issued a notice stating that from November 29 to December 1, the integration of the foreign work management service system with the card will officially commence.
Here are the updates:
1. Optimizing Work Procedures
a. Work Permit Processing
Foreigners can now apply for, extend, modify, and cancel their work permits entirely online through the work management service system. There is no need to obtain a physical work permit upon entry. For those who already hold a physical work permit, the "no change, no replacement" principle applies, and the integration of the permit with the social security card will be handled during extension or modification applications according to the new system procedures.
b.Work Visa Processing
This process remains unchanged. Foreigners still need to apply for the "Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit" within China and use this notification to apply for a Z visa for work in China from abroad.
c. Obtaining an Electronic Social Security Card
After entering China, foreigners can download the electronic social security card app on their mobile phones. By registering with their name, work permit number, or social security number, and completing real-name and real-person authentication, they can receive an electronic social security card that includes work permit information. If a foreigner has already obtained a physical social security card, the electronic social security card will provide standard services in sync.
d. Residence Permit Processing
Upon entering China with a Z visa, foreigners can use the "Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit" or the electronic social security card containing work permit information to apply for the appropriate residence permit at the local public security entry-exit department. Relevant departments can verify work permit information through the information system or directly by scanning the QR code on the electronic social security card.
2. Providing Convenient Services
a. Participating in Social Insurance
Employers or foreigners themselves can use the "Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit" or the electronic social security card to register for social insurance through the online service platform or at service agencies. Social insurance agencies will verify work permit information through the work system, establish a social security number for eligible foreigners, and issue a physical social security card through the social security card management service department.
b. Work Permit-Related Services
The electronic social security card will also provide services such as work permit information inquiry and download, QR code verification, and message notifications.
c. "One Card" Services
Local human resources and social security departments will utilize both physical and electronic social security cards to provide foreigners with services such as business information inquiries and benefit claims. In regions where conditions permit, these services will be further expanded to include more "one card" applications.
HiTouch is fully prepared for the integration of work permits and social security cards. Once the specific implementation details are released, employers and foreign employees can stay updated on the latest policy through HiTouch channels. This will ensure they are well-informed about the new procedures and requirements.
Source: Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security
