Those eligible for new residence permits

Shanghai expatriates in these categories can apply for five-year residence permits, instead of the typical one-year visa:

Foreigners who have been named an "Honorary Citizen" for their contributions to the country's prosperity may apply for a five-year residence permit, as may beneficiaries of the Magnolia Honorary Award and Magnolia Memorial Award.

Foreign high-level talent, special talent and foreign celebrities can apply for a residence permit of three to five years, as can those with special or unique talents that are deemed hard to find in China.