Hiring expats is now easier under trade zone policies
Print Edition
NEW policies and administrative rules in the Shanghai Free Trade Zone make it easier to hire expatriates. The search is on for seasoned professionals.
In August, Pudong New Area unveiled a set of 14 rules that include lowering the application requirement for the Foreign Expert Certificate and simplifying procedures for application.
In the past, for companies, only expats in managerial positions could apply for the certificate. The new rules broaden that to include technical specialists, such as senior engineers.
The new rules also don’t require annual renewal to keep a foreign employment permit.
This has all been good news for the Zhangjiang High-Tech Park, which became part of the Free Trade Zone in April.
Weili Mao, 58, a US citizen and general manager of Shanghai WLH Bio-tech Corp in Zhangjiang, was among the first expatriates to benefit from the easier certification process. In the past, his work permit allowed him to be employed in China only until he was 60.
“We are relieved that Mao can upgrade to the Foreign Expert Certificate so that he will not be restricted by age,” said Guo Yuting, a personnel official at WLH Bio-tech. “Our job is also much easier because we don’t have to prepare loads of documents and renew his permit every year.”
It took her two visits to a special application window in early August to submit all the required documents on behalf of Mao. Three weeks, his Foreign Expert Certificate was granted.
“It is really convenient to have such a window so close to our company,” Guo said.
Still, some restrictions apply.
The Foreign Expert Certificate requires review every two or five years, and applicants over 65 need to submit supplementary documentation, including insurance and letters of commitment from the applicant, the employer and a family member.
Pan Dahui, an official in charge of senior talent services at the center, said the application process for the Foreign Expert Certificate and the Employment Permit will soon be unified.
Wooing foreign professionals remains a priority in the Free Trade Zone.
Official data showed that more than 10 senior managers from multinational companies have applied for permanent residency status.
And four foreign students in China have been granted work permits for the Free Trade Zone since the new policy.
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