China has officially introduced a new visa category, the “K visa,” designed to attract young and highly skilled professionals worldwide, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The policy, approved in August, will take effect on 1 October 2025 and revises China’s entry–exit regulations for foreigners.
Often described as the “Chinese version” of the US H-1B work visa, the K visa comes at a time when many countries are tightening their work-visa policies. The move is considered a strategic step to recruit top-tier talent, especially after the United States introduced a USD 100,000 annual fee for each H-1B application, unsettling Indian IT workers and service firms.
Seizing this opportunity, China has streamlined its process. The K visa is positioned as an alternative pathway for skilled professionals, particularly from South Asia, who may now consider China for work and research.
According to the Ministry of Justice, the K visa will be available to young science and technology talents who have graduated from leading universities or research institutions, in China or abroad, with at least a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field. It will also apply to young professionals employed as lecturers or researchers at such institutions.
Applicants will need to meet the criteria set by Chinese authorities and provide supporting documents, including proof of academic qualifications and professional or research experience. Full details of the requirements will be published through Chinese embassies and consulates.
Compared to the existing 12 standard visa categories, the K visa offers notable advantages:
Unlike most work visas, applicants will not need a sponsor or invitation from a Chinese company, making the process significantly easier.
Once in China, K visa holders will be permitted to participate in academic exchanges in education, culture, science, and technology, as well as entrepreneurial and business activities.
This policy is part of Beijing’s wider effort to make the country more open to international exchange and to strengthen its role in the global competition for talent.
Navigate the trading markets and Discover a world of opportunities.
Bullwaves is a trading name of Equitex Capital Limited (Registration No. 8434948-1), a company authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (the "FSA", licence no. SD185) with legal registered address in CT House, office number 9A, Providence, Mahe, Seychelles and physical address in Office No. Al9C, Providence Complex, Providence, Mahe, Seychelles.
ETX Services Limited with company registration number HE455407, a company registered in Cyprus with registered address Archiepiskopou Makariou lll 160, 3026 Limassol is appointed as Independent Representative and Distributor.
ETX Services Ltd is not the Licensed Entity in the EU but only acts as the Service entity for Equitex Capital Ltd.
Risk Disclaimer:
Over-the-counter derivatives are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing your initial capital rapidly due to leverage. You should consider whether you understand how over-the-counter derivatives work and whether you can afford to take the high level of risk to your capital. Investing in over-the-counter derivatives carries significant risks and is not suitable for all investors.
When acquiring our derivative products you have no entitlement, right or obligation to the underlying financial asset. Equitex is not a financial advisor and all services are provided on an execution only basis. Information is of a general nature only and does not consider your financial objectives, needs or personal circumstances. Important legal documents in relation to our products and services are available on our website. You should read and understand these documents before applying for any Bullwaves products or services and obtain independent professional advice as necessary.
Regional Restrictions:
The information or services described on this website is not directed at or offered to residents of Belgium, Israel, Iran, Maldives, North Korea, United States, Afghanistan, Belarus, Central African Republic, China, Iran, Russia, Cuba, Libya, Nicaragua, Palestinian Authority/Gaza/West Bank, Venezuela and to jurisdictions on the FATF and EU/UN sanctions lists or any other person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local laws or regulations. For more information please contact our support. Clients who onboarded via www.bullwaves.com can contact our support team at support@bullwaves.com.For complaints please email us at compliance@bullwaves.com
For complaints please email us at compliance@bullwaves.com