Q: I am an international student who recently completed undergraduate studies in bioengineering, a STEM field, at a university in Yibin, Sichuan province. I passed my thesis defense and completed all academic studies at the end of May 2026.

I would like to inquire about the possibility of applying for a one-year residence permit for private affairs in Shanghai:

1. Regarding the graduation certificate: Since I have not yet passed the HSK Level 5 exam, the university has informed me that it cannot issue my official graduation certificate until I do so. At present, I only have a "proof of graduation" or "certificate of completion" issued by the university, confirming that I have completed all required credits and passed the defense. The official graduation certificate is not expected to be available until December 2026. Can the certificate of completion serve as a substitute for the official graduation certificate when applying for a one-year residence permit for private affairs for job-seeking purposes?

2. Regarding the duration of stay: My current student residence permit will expire on July 30, 2026. If I move to Shanghai, can I apply directly to the Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration Bureau before my residence permit expires to convert my student residence permit into a residence permit for private affairs? If I remain in Shanghai after July 30 while my application is being processed, would my stay be considered legal?

3. Regarding language requirements: I have not passed the HSK Level 5 exam, but I do hold a bachelor's degree in a STEM field. Will the absence of an HSK Level 5 certificate affect my eligibility for this type of residence permit? Can bioengineering graduates benefit from any simplified procedures available to STEM talent?

4. Regarding the application process: If I wish to apply before July 30, 2026, do I need to cancel my existing student residence permit in Yibin, or can I go directly through the Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration Bureau for a change of status?

A: Please find below the responses to your questions:

1. Regarding completion of studies:

If you have not yet obtained your graduation certificate, whether your studies are considered completed will depend on the content of the proof of completion issued by your university.

2. Regarding legal stay in Shanghai:

You may remain in China before your current residence permit or visa expires, provided you do not engage in activities that are inconsistent with the purpose of your visa or residence permit.

3. Regarding application requirements:

Please refer to Information Sheet A029 on the official website of the Exit-Entry Administration Corps of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau for the documents required to apply for a residence permit for private affairs for innovation and entrepreneurship purposes.

Applications may be accepted if the relevant requirements are met. For key disciplines or majors, applicants must have graduated from a leading university in China or an internationally renowned university, as specified in Information Sheet A029.

4. Regarding cancellation of the residence permit:

You are required to cancel your current residence permit within 10 days of completing your studies.

Source: Exit-Entry Administration Corps of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau