Recent work permit application policies are now being strictly enforced nationwide across China. These updates could affect new, renewal, and amendment applications for foreign employees in Category A and B work permits. The updates are outlined in this alert.
Salary Requirements for Category A Work Permits
Historically, foreign employees applying for Category A work permits based on salary criteria were required to earn six times the local average social salary (社平工资). During the COVID-19 pandemic, certain cities—including Beijing and Shanghai—implemented temporary relaxations to this requirement.
Effective immediately, all cities have resumed standard enforcement. Applicants seeking Category A work permits under the six times salary criterion must now strictly meet the local average social salary multiplier requirement. These salary thresholds are subject to annual adjustment based on government-announced social salary figures.
Age Limit Requirements
The age ceiling for Category B work permit applications has been standardized at 60 years. The officer might provide some age relaxation for renewal application cases.
Below are some sample impact scenarios for employers and employees:
| Scenario | Previous Policy | New Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| New Category A Applications (Beijing Example) | Monthly salary of RMB 47,500 eligible for Category A; criminal record and degree authentication waivers available | Monthly salary of RMB 71,622 (annual income above RMB 859,464) required |
| Category A Renewal Applications | Renewals processed under original approval criteria | Employees not meeting current new Category A salary thresholds may be downgraded to Category B and may be required to submit criminal background checks and degree authentication |
| Category B Applications (4 times Salary Basis) (Beijing Example) | Monthly salary of RMB 31,700 eligible | Monthly salary of RMB 47,748 (annual income above RMB 572,976) required |
Advice for employers
- Review current expatriate compensation packages against updated local salary thresholds to ensure ongoing Category A eligibility
- Assess renewal timelines for existing Category A permit holders and other employees under salary-based pathways, evaluating potential reclassification risks
- Prepare supporting documentation in advance (criminal background checks, degree authentication) for employees who may be impacted
- Monitor annual social salary announcements to anticipate future threshold adjustments
This news alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For further clarification or assistance with specific cases, please contact us at [email protected] or your designated immigration services team.
