5 Minute Read
• In more changes to foreigner's employee regulations - China has just changed how its work permit will be dealt with. It will now be merged with an electronic social security card,
• We’ve found this handy guide about: How to use the electronic social security card. As is often the case, the implementation is still ongoing and a lot of questions remain unanswered - but this is what we know for now.
• Please leave questions in the comments, and we’ll do our best to find the relevant answers.
In the future, foreign nationals can also use the social security card APP to register and complete identity verification using their name, work permit number, or social security number, and then receive an electronic social security card that includes their work permit information (workplace, position, work address, social security payment records, etc).
As is often that case, the implementation is still ongoing and a lot of questions remain unanswered. For example: employers most likey won't be able hold work permit cards anymore, this might force all companies to provide social security, etc.
What is social security?
According
to Chinese law, foreign workers hired by Chinese employers, or expats
who are sent to work in their foreign employers' branches or
representative offices in China, are required to join the social
security program that covers basic endowment insurance, basic medical
insurance, work-related injury insurance, unemployment insurance, and
maternity insurance.
The
fee must be paid by both the employer and the employee. Employers must
register their foreign employees with the social security scheme within
30 days of receiving their work permits.
What are the changes in the Foreigner's Work Permit?
Starting December 1, 2024, foreign nationals entering China for working purposes will no longer need to obtain a physical work permit. The application, renewal, modification, and cancellation of a Foreigner’s Work Permit can be fully managed online through the Service System for Foreigner’s Working in China. That said, however, there may be special circumstances where application, renewal, modification, and cancellation have to be submitted on-site.
After entering China, foreigners can download the Electronic Social Security Card App and register using their name, work permit number, or social security number. Upon completing identity verification, they will receive an electronic social security card containing their work permit information.
For those who have already obtained a physical social security card, the electronic version will automatically provide equivalent services.
Existing physical work permits remain valid under the “no change, no replacement” principle, with integration into the new system occurring during renewal or modification processes.
Eliminating the need to apply for a physical Foreigner’s Work Permit will significantly streamline processes, saving time and reducing administrative burdens for both employers and foreign employees.
Currently, within 15 days of entering China, the company should apply for a Foreigner’s Work Permit for their foreign employee. The application should be filed through the Service System for Foreigners Working in China by submitting the following documents:
Application form for Foreigner’s Work Permit;
Verification of past employment;
Verification of education or a verification of professional qualification;
Criminal record certificate;
Physical examination record for foreigners or overseas Chinese;
Copy of the job contract or appointment letter;
Passport;
ID photo; and
Information of accompanying members.
Documents required by the applicant’s employer:
Registration form;
Business license and organization code certificate;
ID information of the employer/agent who is responsible for the registration; and
Industry license documents.
The SAFEA in charge must verify the documents and decide whether to approve them in 10 working days. For Tier A talents, this time could be reduced to five working days. Upon approval, the foreigner’s Work Permit in China shall be issued on-site.
Will the work visa application be affected?
No, the work visa application process remains unchanged. Employers in China must still apply for a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit on behalf of the foreign national. The foreign individual must obtain a Z visa for work at a Chinese consulate or embassy abroad using this notification letter.
Will the foreigner’s resident permit be affected?
After entering China with a Z visa, foreign nationals can apply for a Resident Permit at the entry-exit bureau of the public security bureau in their city of employment. They may present either the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit or the electronic social security card containing work permit information, eliminating the need to first obtain a physical Foreigner’s Work Permit. This streamlined process reduces application time for foreign nationals. Relevant authorities can verify the necessary information through the electronic system, view the e-card directly, or scan the QR code on the work permit for immediate access.
Can foreigners apply for a physical social security card?
Yes. Employers or foreign nationals may register for social insurance through the online service platform or a designated agency using the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit or the electronic social security card. The social security agency will verify the individual’s work permit information through the work system, issue a social security number, and provide a physical social security card for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
With a single card, foreigners can access both their work permit information and social security benefits much more conveniently than before.
What if you already have physical social security card
If a foreigner has already obtained a physical social security card, the electronic social security card will automatically provide standard services in sync.
Key changes to work and residence permits
The new system eliminates the need for physical work permit cards for those arriving in China. Applications for new permits, renewals, amendments, and cancellations will be handled entirely online. For those currently holding a physical card, it will remain valid until the next renewal or change, at which point the cardholder will transition to the integrated digital system. This transition reduces reliance on physical documentation and aligns with global trends toward digitization in immigration and employment processes.
Upon arrival, foreign workers can download the electronic Social Security Card app and register using their name, work permit number, or social security number. After completing real-name and real-person verification, they will receive a digital Social Security Card containing their work permit details. This integrated card will serve multiple purposes, simplifying identity verification and access to services.
The process for residence permit applications will also see improvements under the new system. Foreigners entering China with a Z-visa and a work permit notification letter will be able to proceed directly with their residence permit applications. Immigration authorities will verify work permit information digitally, either through the centralized system or by scanning the QR code embedded in the electronic Social Security Card. This will eliminate the need for additional paperwork and significantly reduce processing times.
Implementation and Support
To support the implementation of this integrated system, the government is making extensive technical and procedural preparations. Local authorities will expand the functionality of the Social Security Card, making it a more versatile tool for foreigners. System upgrades and equipment enhancements are underway, and interface standards will soon be released to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, comprehensive training programs are being organized for administrative staff to address potential concerns and ensure the system operates seamlessly.
The introduction of this integrated system underscores China’s commitment to improving the work and life experiences of foreign professionals. Employers and foreign workers alike are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes and prepare for the transition to this more streamlined process.
Source: 人力资源社会保障部, 人社部, newlandchase.com
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