China has launched a new visa category for young science and technology specialists as part of its push for technological innovation and self-reliance. Eligible young science and technology professionals would be able to apply for “young talent” K visas from October 1. It did not define the category but the Talented Young Scientist Program has an upper age limit of 45 and the Outstanding Young Scientists (Overseas) Fund Project sets the upper age range at 40.
CCTV reported that the K-type visa would be issued to young foreign professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) who had graduated from “renowned” domestic or overseas universities or research institutions, or those who were engaged in related education or research at such institutions. Details about the requirements would be posted on Chinese embassy and consulate websites, it said.
“The K-type visa has specific requirements regarding age, educational background, or work experience, and does not require a domestic employer or inviting entity. The application process will also be more streamlined,” it said. China already has 12 categories of ordinary visas, but the K-type visa will be more convenient for holders in terms of the number of entries, the validity period, and the duration of stay, according to the report.
Beijing aims to become a tech superpower by 2035 and sees skills as essential to reaching this goal in its rivalry with the United States. The Talented Young Scientist Program aims to attract researchers from Asia and Africa to work in China while the Outstanding Young Scientists (Overseas) Fund Project encourages top-level natural scientists and engineers to go to China. Top universities in China have also offered competitive salaries and bonuses to attract foreign researchers, the South China Morning Post reports.
