Guangzhou and Foshan introduce mutual recognition for foreign talent

The technology bureaus of Guangzhou and Foshan have jointly issued measures to streamline work permit applications for foreign talent and enable mutual recognition between the two cities. The measures took effect on Feb. 3, 2026 and will remain valid for two years.

Key points:

· For the first time in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the two cities have established a mutual recognition mechanism for high-end foreign talent (Category A).

· An exemption list applies to foreign professionals who already hold work permits in either city. When transferring employment between Guangzhou and Foshan, applicants no longer need to resubmit their highest academic degree certificates. Proof of prior work experience is also waived if the job role remains unchanged.

· For intra-company transfers within multinational corporations or corporate groups, applicants who file a new work permit application within 30 days of transfer are exempt from providing criminal record certificates and medical examination reports.

· For eligibility metrics tied to multiples of the average wage, authorities will use Guangdong Province’s previous-year average annual salary of urban employees (as published by the Guangdong Human Resources and Social Security Department). This prevents differing local salary baselines from affecting talent status during transfers between Guangzhou and Foshan.

· There is no age limit for high-end foreign talent (Category A). The upper age limit for professional talent (Category B) is aligned with China’s statutory retirement age.

· Outstanding foreign graduates with master’s or higher degrees from reputable domestic or international universities who have secured employment are exempt from the prior two-year work experience requirement. A similar exemption applies to young foreign science and technology professionals urgently needed for national, provincial, or municipal research projects.

· Foreign professionals who previously held mid-level or higher positions, or who held associate professor or higher academic titles at recognized universities or research institutions in China or abroad, will be directly recognized as Category A talent if they establish technology enterprises or conduct research in Guangzhou or Foshan.

· If a high-tech company relocates between Guangzhou and Foshan, the work permit category for its foreign executives and technical staff will remain valid.

· The two cities will also strengthen exchanges among foreign experts and support their participation in addressing core technological challenges in key industries.