China Launches New Visa Programme for Foreign Students

CHINA: On Wednesday, China launches a new visa programme for foreign students of Science and Information Technology. China has adopted such measures to stand ahead of the other world powers.

China opens doors with the K visa:

In August, China introduced its new K visa. The new visa programme aimed to attract young scientific and technological talent from abroad. Unlike many other visas, the K visa does not require applicants to be invited by a local employer or institution.

According to state media, the new policy is meant to simplify immigration for skilled individuals. On Tuesday, People’s Daily wrote, “Against the backdrop of some countries retracting, turning inward, and sidelining international talent, China has keenly seized this important opportunity and promptly introduced this policy.”

State news agency Xinhua added that K visa holders will enjoy greater flexibility. It reported, “K visas will offer more convenience to holders in terms of the number of permitted entries, validity period, and duration of stay.”

While the official description highlights “young foreign scientific and technological talents” as eligible, the precise age, education, and work experience requirements have not been clarified yet. Still, Xinhua noted that recipients will be able to engage in exchanges across education, culture, technology, entrepreneurship, and business.

The US takes a different path:

The US is heading in the opposite direction. The Trump administration has recently imposed sudden, costly changes to its H-1B visa program, which has long been essential for the tech industry.

H-1B visas allow companies to bring in highly skilled workers such as scientists, engineers, and software developers for an initial three years, with the option of extension. However, the new rules now include a one-time $100,000 fee, sparking concern in the tech sector.

Pushback against rumors:

China has defended its new visa initiative from criticism. On Tuesday, People’s Daily dismissed concerns of an immigration problem. It said, “The so-called ‘immigration crisis’ will not materialise; we should have cultural confidence.”

China is positioning itself as a more welcoming destination for global talent. A move that could reshape the competition for skilled workers in science and technology.