China’s Ministry of Public Security is set to relax its immigration rules, opening the door to more highly skilled overseas workers and allowing a greater number of foreigners the opportunity to become permanent residents, the South China Morning Post reported. The Ministry added that the rule changes, which will take effect from August 2019, will also allow top talent from overseas to apply for long-term visas and make it easier for budding overseas entrepreneurs to start a business in China.

"Pilot programmes show these policies are very valuable and have clear effects," said Chen Bin, head of foreign nationals management department with the State Immigration Administration. "The impact is wide and the demand is high. They will effectively promote opening up and social and economic development.”