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This is the latest information that I have with regards to �permanent residence� status. The Chinese government has just recently (August 15, 2006) instituted a �Green Card� system for foreigners living in mainland China. But don�t get too excited.

To date only 3000 foreigners have received �permanent resident� status in China, while 230,000 foreigners have what are called: �Long Term Resident Permits�, which are good for 5 years.

The regulations for eligibility are also difficult to qualify for as an �average Joe�:

- High level foreign personnel who hold posts in businesses which promote China�s economic, scientific and technological development or social progress.
- Foreign citizens who make relatively large direct investments in China.
- Foreigners who have made outstanding contributions or are of special importance to China.
- Foreigners who come to China to be with their families.
- Marriage to a Chinese National for at least five years.

The first three you can probably throw out the window. As far as coming to China to be with your family; this pertains to let�s say an American born Chinese (ABC), who is relocating to China to live with his immediate family or if the family member is a foreigner but holds permanent resident status. Which leaves the last option: marriage to a Chinese National for at least 5 years. Hold on all you young single Chinese women, don�t start lining up just yet! This comes with what I�ve been told additional requirements (although all are not necessary, but the more you have the better off you will be): owning a home/apartment, owning a business, owning a car, a large bank account and having a child.

If you are lucky enough to be granted a �Green Card� this will allow you to come and go without the need of a visa, travel within China (provincially) without having to re-register with the local police each time. It will carry some weight when it comes to securing a bank loan, opening a business and just plain �status�.

Remember, everything we do here as foreigners in China is provisional, as fast as you may get it, it can be taken away. If anyone else out there has any information that could be helpful or is contrary to what I have said, please let us know. I am married to a Chinese woman and I have 2 years to go before I can apply � will keep you updated!