Explainer: China's new K visa for foreign tech talent taking effect on October 1

On October 1, a new chapter in China's immigration policy will begin as the country will introduce a new visa category for young science and technology talent.

"To promote exchanges and cooperation between the professionals between China and the rest of the word, China will add a K visa to its ordinary visa categories," the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun announced on Monday.

The new K visa category was introduced in August following a decision by the State Council. Applicants must meet the qualifications and requirements set by the relevant Chinese authorities and submit supporting documentation.

Compared with the existing 12 ordinary visa types, K visas offer greater convenience in terms of the number of permitted entries, validity period, and duration of stay.

After entering China, K visa holders can participate in exchanges in education, culture, science and technology, as well as relevant entrepreneurial and business activities.

Except for specific age, educational background, and work experience requirements, K visa applications do not require a domestic employer or entity to issue an invitation. The application process is also expected to be more streamlined.

The new rules will take effect on October 1. Guo said that Chinese embassies and consulates will soon release detailed information on K visa applications.

The decision comes as part of China's ongoing efforts to streamline visa rules and promote international exchanges. As of the end of July, China had introduced unilateral visa-free entry or mutual visa-exemption agreements with 75 countries.

"The introduction of the K visa, designed specifically for young foreign professionals in science and technology, is more than just an adjustment to entry regulations. It is a strategic move that places China at the forefront of the global competition for talent," Djoomart Otorbaev, former prime minister of Kyrgyzstan, also a professor of the Belt and Road School of Beijing Normal University, wrote in an article published on September 27.

"In a world where innovation is the decisive force shaping national power, this change is nothing less than revolutionary," the expert noted in his article titled "China's K visa an ace in the global battle for talent."

(With input from Xinhua)