Shanghai has expanded its recognition of professionals holding overseas occupational qualifications to attract talent from around the world to further boost its vitality.

The Shanghai List of Recognized Overseas Occupational Qualifications (2.0), released by the Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau on Nov 15, has expanded the list of recognized overseas occupational qualifications, or Category A, to 111 items, up from 48. 

Holders of these qualifications can receive support services, including prioritized entry and exit, and handling of work permit and residence permit. 

Among the 111 qualifications, 22 are classified as Category B, or urgently needed ones, with extra premium services provided.

Another 33 qualifications are deemed in category C, and the holders can acquire corresponding professional titles in China. Their overseas professional experience, work achievements, and innovative contributions may be considered as evaluation criteria. 

Furthermore, category D, a new supplementary list, has been introduced, aiming to facilitate mutual recognition between Chinese and overseas professional qualifications, certifications, and technical titles in fields such as construction, finance, accounting, and human resources.

Check the full list of recognized overseas occupational qualifications here.

Services for eligible talents

Individuals holding qualifications under category A are eligible for the following support services: 

• Foreign nationals may apply for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to five years with an invitation letter from relevant organizations. Alternatively, they can obtain a work-type residence permit valid for up to five years with a work permit.
• Eligible foreign nationals can apply for a work permit of a corresponding type. For foreign professional talents, the age limit can be extended to 70 years. For high-end talents, they can obtain a permit valid for up to five years. 
• Foreign nationals can receive extra points when applying for Shanghai's Overseas Talent Residence Permit (Card B).
• Overseas work experience can be recognized as equivalent to domestic work experience in China.

The following services are available for those with qualifications under category B:

• Eligible foreign nationals can apply for a high-end foreign talent work permit, with no restrictions on education, age, or work experience.
• Eligible foreign nationals can be recommended by authorities of key national development areas to apply for permanent residency in China. Their foreign spouses and minor children can apply along with them.
• Foreign nationals can apply for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to five years. Eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for a Confirmation Letter for Foreign High Level Talents, which enables them to apply for a talent visa (R visa) valid for up to 10 years.
• Foreign nationals starting a business in Shanghai can apply for a relevant residence permit with the required documentation.

Since the inaugural version of the list was released in 2023, Shanghai has completed two rounds of professional title recognition for overseas qualifications, with 118 professionals from foreign-funded, private, and state-owned enterprises obtaining senior professional titles.

Sources: chinanews.cn, Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau