HAIKOU /China/, June 18. /TASS/. The authorities of the southern Chinese province of Hainan are taking additional measures to attract highly qualified foreign specialists, China News Service reported. According to the publication, new provisions for attracting personnel to the Hainan Free Trade Port will take effect in June 2025.
These provisions include special measures for foreign specialists, such as opportunities for education, support for entrepreneurship, simplified residence procedures, and other benefits that provide legal guarantees for foreign specialists working in Hainan. The local authorities support the recruitment of highly qualified foreign personnel to higher education institutions, according to the resource. Full-time foreign employees at Hainan universities can participate in student assessments, programs recognizing highly qualified specialists, and competitions.
To encourage employment and entrepreneurship among foreign specialists, the new regulations provide a number of practical measures. Foreign technical specialists can apply for jobs or start businesses in Hainan and apply for residence permits for themselves and their family members. Additionally, "green channels" have been established for currency transactions, enabling the transfer of legal earnings, including salaries and income from intellectual property commercialization, overseas.
Citizens of 85 countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Hainan Province, and foreign specialists can obtain a visa upon arrival at Haikou and Sanya airports. There are 13 visa offices in eight cities and counties in Hainan that simplify the relevant procedures for foreigners. Foreign specialists working in Hainan can obtain a residence permit valid for up to five years. Those who meet the relevant criteria are eligible for permanent residence.
New provisions have been introduced that permit highly qualified foreign specialists to lead major scientific projects. The establishment of research centers by foreign companies in Hainan and the development of cross-border financing mechanisms are encouraged as well.
Additionally, foreign specialists can now hold senior positions in organizations related to the Hainan Free Trade Port, budgetary organizations, and state-owned enterprises in the province.