Guangdong extends the validity period of foreign talent visas

Guangdong science and technology department and Guangdong public security bureau have issued policies in January to extend the duration of work visas for foreign talents and identified many other convenience measures for them.

According to the policy, foreign high-level talents and urgently needed talents can apply to the Chinese foreign visa authorities for an R visa with a validity period of up to 10 years and a maximum stay of 180 days using a confirmation letter issued by Guangdong science and technology department. Their spouses and dependants can also apply for the same type of visa with the same validity period and multiple entry points.

For foreign talents who need urgent entry, they can apply for temporary visa entry (within 30 days) directly at the port visa authority of the province with a confirmation letter or invitation letter issued by Guangdong science and technology department. They can then extend their length of stay after entry.

The procedures for the processing of foreign talent confirmation letters shall be submitted by the inviting unit to the Guangdong science and technology department, and submitted online at the Foreigners to China Work Management Service System. A confirmation letter can be obtained in 5 working days, and the relevant information will be exchanged with the embassy or consulate of the country (region) where the applicant is located.

In addition, the government's policy also focuses on simplifying the procedures for foreign talents to work in Guangdong for a short period of time, especially for those coming to China for management, technology, scientific research, teaching, guidance, and consulting.

Foreign talents who need to work in Guangdong within 90 days can apply for the F visa directly to the visa authorities in China according to the invitation letter issued by Guangdong science and technology department. After entry, they will be exempted from work and residence permits. Foreign talents who need urgent entry but fail to apply for the F visa at the visa authorities in China may apply for a temporary visa at the port of Guangdong province with an invitation letter issued by Guangdong science and technology department.