China’s Government Launches Integrated Card for Expatriates in China

published on 23 December 2024 | reading time approx. 3 minutes​

In terms of simplifying procedures, the Integrated Card reduces the number of physical cards. In the future, there will be no physical work permit for foreigners. All processes, including application, extension, change as well as deregistration, will be completed online. For expatriates whose physical work permits are still valid, they can apply for the Integrated Card when the current one needs updating, pursuant to the "No update, no change" principle.

In terms of convenience services, employers can register their expatriates for social security online or through social security agencies. With the Integrated Card, expatriates can query and download work permit information, verify QR codes, receive message notifications, receive benefits and subsidies, and access other services. Further "all-in-one" services may be launched in pilot areas.

The procedures above do not simplify the verification of Work Permit application documents. The competent authority still needs to check the authenticity of relevant materials, such as medical examination reports. The existing regulations on social insurance contributions for foreigners also remain unchanged.

The application process for foreigners entering China for the first time is illustrated below:

Work permit and social security card are critical documents for expatriates working and living in China. This policy aims to optimizes the process. However, from the perspective of social security management, the digitization and consolidation of information may make it easier for social security bureaus to keep track of data such as the entry, exit and residence of foreigners, as well as their social security contributions.​

According to Article 97 of the Social Security Law of the PRC and Article 3 of the Interim Measures for the Participation in Social Security of Foreigners Employed in China, foreigners employed in China and their domestic employers are required to pay social security contributions. However, in some regions, due to historical reasons, the payment of social security contributions is not fully compliant. For example, in Shanghai, according to the "Notice of the Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau on Several Issues Concerning the Participation in Social Insurance for Foreigners Working in Shanghai or Obtaining Permanent Residence" ("Notice No. 38 [2009]"), it is possible to stipulate in the employment contract regarding social security contributions, which has been interpreted by some employers as not being mandatory, although this Notice is in contradiction with the Social Security Law that came into effect in 2011. However, Notice No. 38 [2009] has already expired on 15 August 2021. Shanghai has therefore aligned itself with the national regulations. The introduction of the Integrated Card could be a good opportunity for the authority to check compliance with social security payments.