China is taking a bold step in the global competition for skilled talent with the launch of a new “K” visa from October 1, 2025. The visa is designed to attract young foreign professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), even without a local job offer.
Geopolitical analyst James Wood highlighted the move in a post on X, noting that the initiative reflects Beijing’s Talent-Strong Nation Strategy, a policy framework championed by Premier Li Qiang. “The contrast couldn’t be clearer: US/UK → walls up, costs up, fear up. China → visas simplified, opportunities expanded, innovation accelerated,” he wrote. Advertisement
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Eligibility: Foreigners aged 18-45 with a bachelor’s degree or higher from recognised universities or engaged in STEM research.
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