China · Researcher Visa
K Visa — Young Foreign Science and Technology Talent
Official name K Visa — Young Foreign Science and Technology Talent (October 2025)
K visa introduced by State Council Decision Amending the Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigne…
K visa introduced by State Council Decision Amending the Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (Order [2025] No. 814), gazetted 7 August 2025, effective 1 October 2025. Targets young foreign science and technology talents (under-40 with bachelor's+ in STEM from globally recognised universities, with research/teaching/professional experience). Streamlined application — no Chinese employer/inviter required at application stage; documentary proof of academic/professional standing suffices. Multi-entry, longer validity, longer stays per entry than M; permits both…
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | bachelor |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| Health Insurance Required | No |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the K Visa — Young Foreign Science and Technology Talent (October 2025)?
K visa introduced by State Council Decision Amending the Regulations on Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners (Order [2025] No. 814), gazetted 7 August 2025, effective 1 October 2025. Targets young foreign science and technology talents (under-40 with bachelor's+ in STEM from globally recognised universities, with research/teaching/professional experience). Streamlined application — no Chinese employer/inviter required at application stage; documentary proof of academic/professional standing suffices. Multi-entry, longer validity, longer stays per entry than M; permits both…
Can I bring my family on the K Visa — Young Foreign Science and Technology Talent (October 2025)?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the K Visa — Young Foreign Science and Technology Talent (October 2025) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway can lead to permanent residence, subject to meeting the residence and other conditions. We do not publish a qualifying timeline for this route because we have no official source stating one; check with the relevant authority for the current residence requirement.
Are there alternative pathways to China?
Yes. China offers 11 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our China country page.
What is the cost of living in China?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Beijing: €1,440/mo; Shanghai: €1,550/mo; Shenzhen: €1,271/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Official source
Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:
Data last verified: 2026-06-22 · See our methodology
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