Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card (Five-Star Card)

Overview

The Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card is China's permanent residence document. The current version, activated on 1 December 2023, carries the five stars of the national flag, which is why it is widely called the Five-Star Card. It is issued by the National Immigration Administration to foreign nationals whose permanent-residence applications have been approved, and it works as a standalone identity document for things like accommodation registration and booking transport, without needing your passport. Permanent residence in China is selective: it is generally reserved for defined groups such as high-level talent, long-term workers meeting set conditions, investors, and family of Chinese citizens or permanent residents. Good to know: the English portal is partial and the detailed eligibility categories sit in Chinese-language regulations, so confirm the current rule on the official page.

Eligibility

Application pathway

1. 01

   Check the route fit

   Identify which permanent-residence category you fit and confirm you meet its conditions.

2. 02

   Build the evidence pack

   Assemble the category-specific evidence (talent, work, investment or family) and supporting documents.

3. 03

   Submit through the official channel

   Submit the permanent-residence application to the National Immigration Administration.

4. 04

   After approval

   After approval, collect your Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card and use it as your identity document in China.

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Related routes

• R Talent Visa (high-level and urgently needed talent)

  For you if you are a recognised high-level expert or have skills China urgently needs: the R visa is the talent route, normally used alongside a top-tier Foreigner Work Permit and, after arrival, a residence permit.

• Z Work Visa (with Foreigner Work Permit and Residence Permit)

  For you if a Chinese employer has offered you a job: the Z visa is the standard route into paid work in mainland China, used together with a Foreigner Work Permit and, after arrival, a residence permit.

• Q Family Reunion Visa (Q1 and Q2)

  For you if you are family of a Chinese citizen or a permanent resident of China: the Q visa is the family-reunion route, with a long-stay Q1 (leading to a residence permit) and a short-stay Q2 for visits.