When China first announced a new visa targeting foreign professionals in science and technology in August, it largely went unnoticed. But the K visa, which went into effect on Wednesday, was thrust into the public spotlight last week, when an Indian outlet referred to it as China's H-1B - a reference to the US visa for skilled workers. Indians dominate the H-1B programme, making up more than 70% of the recipients in recent years.
The Indian media report was picked up widely in China, igniting public concern over whether the benefits extended to foreigners would exacerbate competition in a sluggish job market - especially in a country that has not been a major immigration destination for foreign professionals.
Despite uncertainty about whether the visa will allow foreigners to work in China or merely enable easier access into the country, tens of thousands of users on Chinese social media have criticized the programme. One comment reflected the sentiment: We have so many bachelor's degree holders, not to mention even more with master's and doctoral degrees. We already have a surplus of domestic talent - and now you're bringing in foreign college graduates?
The backlash intensified to a point that state media outlets have intervened to calm public anxiety. The Global Times published a commentary advocating for the K visa as a chance for the world to see a more open and confident China in its new era.
The K visa, which applies to individuals working in STEM fields, is characterized by authorities as a visa for exchanges related to education, science and technology, culture, as well as entrepreneurship and business activities. Notably, applicants for the K visa will not require backing from a local employer and will benefit from a more flexible duration of stay and validity period.
Nevertheless, public skepticism continues, underscored by xenophobic sentiments aimed particularly at Indian nationals. The online conversations are indicative of broader apprehensions regarding preferential treatment for foreigners.
As China seeks to attract global talent while the US tightens its immigration policies, the K visa represents a strategic move. However, its success will depend on how well it is communicated, the government's ability to address domestic concerns, and whether it provides genuine opportunities for foreign professionals in a tightly controlled political climate.
The Indian media report was picked up widely in China, igniting public concern over whether the benefits extended to foreigners would exacerbate competition in a sluggish job market - especially in a country that has not been a major immigration destination for foreign professionals.
Despite uncertainty about whether the visa will allow foreigners to work in China or merely enable easier access into the country, tens of thousands of users on Chinese social media have criticized the programme. One comment reflected the sentiment: We have so many bachelor's degree holders, not to mention even more with master's and doctoral degrees. We already have a surplus of domestic talent - and now you're bringing in foreign college graduates?
The backlash intensified to a point that state media outlets have intervened to calm public anxiety. The Global Times published a commentary advocating for the K visa as a chance for the world to see a more open and confident China in its new era.
The K visa, which applies to individuals working in STEM fields, is characterized by authorities as a visa for exchanges related to education, science and technology, culture, as well as entrepreneurship and business activities. Notably, applicants for the K visa will not require backing from a local employer and will benefit from a more flexible duration of stay and validity period.
Nevertheless, public skepticism continues, underscored by xenophobic sentiments aimed particularly at Indian nationals. The online conversations are indicative of broader apprehensions regarding preferential treatment for foreigners.
As China seeks to attract global talent while the US tightens its immigration policies, the K visa represents a strategic move. However, its success will depend on how well it is communicated, the government's ability to address domestic concerns, and whether it provides genuine opportunities for foreign professionals in a tightly controlled political climate.
