Family Support Policies

To ensure a smooth and supportive living and working environment for foreign high-level talent in China, local governments have introduced a series of family-oriented support measures in line with national policies issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology. These include employment access for spouses, visa options for parents, medical care services, and elderly support. Key policies are outlined below:

1. Spouse Employment Support Program

Eligibility:

Principal applicant holds a valid Certificate of Foreign High-Level Talent

Spouse has obtained a residence permit with the “Family of Talent” designation

Policy Highlights:

No Industry Restrictions: Spouses are free to pursue employment in any sector without applying for a separate foreign work permit. This includes access to sectors typically restricted for foreign workers (e.g., education, finance, healthcare).

Streamlined Process:

Principal applicant presents the Talent Certificate

Spouse submits a notarized and officially translated marriage certificate (authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) for record filing at the local Foreign Experts Bureau

Upon approval, the relevant work authorization or residence endorsement is issued (name of document may vary by location)

Equal Social Security Access: Eligible spouses may participate in the local social insurance system (pension, medical, unemployment, maternity, and housing fund) and enjoy benefits equivalent to local employees, such as maternity subsidies and housing loan eligibility

Note: Specific processing times and documentation requirements may vary by city. In some locations, approval can be completed within 3–5 business days.

2. Parental Visit and Elderly Support Plan

Visa & Residence Options:

Q2 Family Visit Visa:

Up to 5-year multiple-entry visa

Maximum stay of 180 days per entry (exit required once per year)

S1 Long-Term Residence Permit:

Available to foreign parents aged 75 and above

May apply for a 2-year residence permit upon submission of a notarized financial support affidavit from the principal applicant

Medical Services:

Designated Hospital Green Channel (Pilot Cities):

Priority registration for geriatric specialties (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology)

Bilingual navigation and assistance services at selected top-tier hospitals (e.g., Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, West China Hospital in Chengdu)

Subsidized International Health Insurance (Pilot Regions):

Reimbursement of 50%–70% of annual premium costs depending on age group

Annual reimbursement cap up to RMB 80,000 (subject to local policy)