Feb 1, 2026: Visas, Jobs... 12 New Incentives for Foreigners

Hainan Province has officially released the Measures of Haikou Jiangdong New Area on Supporting the Concentration of Foreign Talent, introducing 12 targeted policies designed to attract and support foreign professionals.

The policy will take effect on February 1, 2026, and remain valid for three years.

I. Entrepreneurship Made Easier

1. Rent and Property Fee Subsidies

Eligible enterprises may receive subsidies of up to 50 percent of rent and property management fees during the first two years, significantly reducing start-up costs.

2. One-off Incentives

After one year of operation, enterprises may qualify for a one-time subsidy ranging from RMB 30,000 to RMB 100,000, based on leased floor area.

3. Employment Subsidies

Enterprises will receive employment subsidies of RMB 2,000 per employee per year, encouraging business expansion and job creation.

II. Incubation and Capacity Building

Beyond financial incentives, the policy provides comprehensive development support:

1. Free Entrepreneurship “Starter Package”

Foreign talent may apply for 7–14 days of free accommodation in talent apartments and 3–12 months of free co-working space. One-stop services including entrepreneurship mentoring, investment and financing matchmaking, market research, and job placement support are also provided to accelerate project growth.

2. Support for Emerging Business Models

New forms of business such as e-commerce livestreaming are encouraged, fostering a dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem for foreign talent.

3. Expanded Internship Opportunities

Enterprises are encouraged to offer internship opportunities to international students from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, helping local companies build a reserve of globally oriented talent.

III. Quality-of-Life Support

1. Healthcare Services

Top-tier hospitals within the zone will establish green channels for foreign professionals, offering appointment scheduling, priority examinations, and hospitalization coordination. Full-time Category A and B foreign talent will be covered by commercial medical insurance. In addition, a medical service guide for foreign nationals will be released, providing information on international hospitals and ensuring barrier-free access to healthcare.

2. Diverse Education Options for Children

Guidance services will be provided to assist foreign talent’s children in enrolling in public schools during the compulsory education stage. Key high schools within the zone will be supported in establishing international programs, offering multiple education pathways.

IV. Housing and Living Support

1. Housing Allowances

Category A foreign talent will receive RMB 1,500 per month, and Category B foreign talent RMB 1,000 per month, for up to three consecutive years.

2. Living Allowances

Category A foreign talent will receive RMB 1,000 per month, and Category B foreign talent RMB 500 per month, also for up to three consecutive years. Housing subsidies are granted under a “higher-not-duplicated” principle when combined with provincial-level talent housing benefits.

V. Enhanced Administrative Services

1. More Flexible Visa and Residency Policies

Outstanding international students may benefit from simplified visa extensions, while long-term foreign employees may apply for residence permits valid for one to five years, enhancing stability.

2. One-Stop Service Window for Foreign Talent

A multilingual service counter will be established at the Jiangdong government service center, with dedicated foreign-language staff assisting in work permits, residence permits, and policy consultations.

VI. International Community Development

1. Jiangdong International Talent Community

An integrated, international, one-stop service platform will be created to foster a globally oriented, community-based living environment and help foreign professionals quickly integrate into local life.

2. Cultural and Professional Exchange Activities

Regular events such as career forums, international cultural festivals, and themed holiday activities for foreign talent will be organized to strengthen professional networks and cross-cultural exchange.

VII. Seamless Communication Services

1. On-site SIM Card Services

Foreign professionals will be offered on-site appointment services for SIM card registration provided by China’s three major telecom operators, saving time and effort.

2. Reliable Cross-border Connectivity

Efficient, stable, and high-quality communication services will be ensured, particularly for cross-border communications, keeping foreign talent connected with the rest of the world.

VIII. Clear and Accessible Guidance

Bilingual signage and wayfinding systems will be improved in key areas of Jiangdong New Area, and multilingual living service guides will be provided to ensure smooth travel, administration, and daily life for foreign residents.

Source: OT-Team(G)