China’s new K visa is meant to lure foreign STEM talent. Instead it’s drawn criticism
Online commenters raise concerns about the programme’s impact on local employment in a tight job market
Competition, a struggling job market and immigration fears are fuelling criticism in China of the country’s new K visa programme, a scheme designed to attract foreign STEM talent.
Public policy analysts said greater transparency, clearer messaging and strict oversight were needed to address domestic unease.
The K visa is aimed at young foreign graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and offers them streamlined entry, residence and employment opportunities – even if they do not have a job offer or an invitation letter.
Beijing has said that eligibility will hinge on factors like age, educational background or work experience, but there are few details, with Chinese diplomatic missions expected to release further information later.