Shanghai loosens control on hukou policy

Source: China Daily | 02-24-2009 11:27

This city, with one of the strictest population controls in the country, is opening its gates wider to talent by approving hukou, or permanent residency, to experienced professionals from other provinces.

The policy, announced yesterday, marks the first time Shanghai has clearly spelled out the requirements to approve a permanent resident. Shanghai also becomes the first major city to loosen its control on the hukou system.

To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must have held a Shanghai residency certificate and have been in the city's social security system for at least seven years. Applicants must also be taxpayers, have obtained vocational qualification at medium or high levels, have never violated family planning policies, have clean credit and no criminal record.

The policy gives priority to those with a senior vocational qualification, those who work at schools and hospitals in the suburbs, pay high taxes or insurance rates or have significant investments here.

Shanghai has a population of 19 million people, six million of whom do not have a permanent residency.