Number of 5-Star Card Holders in Shanghai Exceeds 10,000

According to the Shanghai Immigration Bureau, more than 10,000 foreigners have received the 5-Star Card, a permanent residency card given to foreigners in China, since its implementation on December 1, 2023. The 5-Star Card, which can be called China’s Green Card, provides foreigners living in China with approximately 10 years of residency and certain social benefits.

**Example of 5-Star Card or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card**

What is the 5-Star Card?

The 5-Star Card is a new version of the permanent residency card issued by the Immigration Administration of China for foreigners, and takes its name from the five-star element added to the document. Launched in December 2023, the card allows holders to independently use it within China, providing access to over 300 public services, including finance, education, and healthcare, without needing to present a passport. The new card number has been increased from 15 to 18 digits, with the first digit, “9,” identifying the holder. Application requirements include six categories such as investment, employment, and family reunification, and must meet conditions such as permanent residency and tax registration. Cardholders enjoy visa-free entry and exit to China, the ability to purchase real estate, and school enrollment for their children, but should note that prolonged absence from the country may render the card invalid.

What are the Application Requirements for a 5-Star Card?

Worked in Shanghai for 4 years. Having resided in China for at least 6 months each year, having an annual salary at least 6 times the average annual salary of the region, and having an annual personal tax exceeding 20% of the annual salary. Currently, the annual salary requirement is 880,000 RMB.
Holding a PhD degree and a valid work permit.
Have an employment-typed residence permit noted with “Talents” for over 3 years and having a valid work permit.
Marriage: Being married for 5 years to a Chinese citizen or a foreigner holding a 5-Star Card, having resided continuously in China for 5 years, and having stayed in China for at least 9 months each year.
Special Zone: Overseas Chinese citizens who have worked for at least 4 years in key national development zones or “mass entrepreneurship and innovation” (hereinafter referred to as “Double Innovation”) demonstration areas, such as the Shanghai Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, or China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone Lin-Gang Special Zone, have proper tax records, and reside in China for at least 6 months each year.
No criminal record and good residency record.

Benefits of the 5-Star Card

It grants a long-term residence permit valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 18.
Treated as Chinese citizen, no work permit is required, and you can work for multiple companies.
You can use the 5-Star card for entry and exit, no visa required and saving time on visa applications.
You can use the card at train stations and airports, eliminating the need for manual checks.
Use it for processes such as income tax declarations, banking, and establishing a company in China; real name verification via e-channel is more efficient.