Policy Information

Differences in Convenience of Entry and Exit

Residence permit holder

Individuals holding a residence permit can enter and exit the country multiple times during the validity period of the permit, which typically ranges from 1 to 5 years. Each entry and exit still requires a complex verification process.

Permanent residency holder

Permanent residency holders can freely enter and exit the Chinese border with their five-star card and valid passport, enjoying convenient customs clearance procedures. They can also use self-service customs clearance channels, which are almost the same as the entry and exit experience of domestic residents, without worrying about complicated procedures such as visa expiration.

Employment and entrepreneurial opportunities

Residence permit holder

Foreigners holding work permits can legally work in China, but the employer and the unit on the residence permit must be consistent. If they want to change jobs, they need to reapply for a work visa and permit, which is a cumbersome process. If you need to change your purpose of residence in China, you need to apply for a new residence permit.

Permanent residency holder

Permanent residency holders have absolute freedom to work in China, without the need for a work permit. They can freely choose their work city and employer, and also participate in social security and various medical and pension insurance in accordance with the law. In terms of entrepreneurship, foreign-invested enterprises can be established through technology investment or investment in accordance with the law, and enjoy employment and entrepreneurship policy support similar to that of domestic residents.

Children's educational rights and interests

Residence permit holder

Children of residents holding residence permits who receive education in China can refer to relevant policies on residence permits, but overall there are still significant differences compared to five-star card holders in terms of enrollment requirements and scope of application.

Permanent residency holder

Five star card holders' accompanying children who enroll in compulsory education can enjoy the same policy treatment as domestic resident children if they meet the conditions (subject to the policies of the local enrollment department). The education administrative department in their place of residence will handle the enrollment and transfer procedures according to the principle of nearest enrollment, without charging fees other than those stipulated by the state, providing strong guarantees for their children to receive high-quality education in China.

Convenience of transportation and travel

Residence permit holder

Individuals holding a residence permit have relatively convenient transportation options, but they still need to bring their passport and residence permit documents. In some cases, it may not be as convenient as using an ID card, and travel efficiency may still be affected.

Permanent residency holder

They can directly swipe the five-star card to handle the relevant procedures, which is convenient and fast. For example, when taking domestic flights, you can directly purchase tickets online and swipe your five-star card to use the self-service channel, which is basically the same as the experience of domestic residents using their ID card for travel, greatly improving the convenience and comfort of travel.

Buying a car and obtaining a driver's license

Residence permit holder

Individuals holding a residence permit may apply for a motor vehicle driver's license, but additional supporting documents may still be required for purchasing or registering a vehicle.

Permanent residency holder

They can apply for a "People's Republic of China Motor Vehicle Driver's License" with a five-star card, and enjoy the same treatment as Chinese citizens in purchasing and registering vehicles, easily realizing the freedom of buying and driving.

Accessibility of financial services

Residence permit holder

Individuals holding a residence permit may have some convenience in handling financial transactions, but may still need to provide additional proof documents for some transactions, which may prevent them from fully enjoying the same financial service benefits as domestic residents.

Permanent residency holder

Handling financial services such as banking, insurance, securities, and futures enjoys the same rights and treatment as Chinese citizens. They can directly use their five-star card to handle business, making account opening, remittance, and purchasing wealth management products more convenient. They can freely choose the type of wealth management product and enjoy comprehensive services provided by financial institutions, fully protecting their financial rights and interests in China.