Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Xiamen

About Golden Visa Law in Xiamen, China

"Golden Visa" is a widely used informal term for pathways that allow foreign nationals to obtain long-term residence or permanent residence in a country by investing, working, or contributing in other economically or socially valuable ways. In China, and therefore in Xiamen, that concept aligns with a mix of national and local immigration policies - primarily the foreigner permanent residence permit, long-term residence permits, talent visas, and special local incentives targeted at investors and high-level professionals.

China administers residence and permanent residence for foreigners through national laws such as the Exit and Entry Administration Law and implementing regulations, while municipal governments - including Xiamen - may operate talent introduction policies, points-based systems, and preferential measures to attract investment and key personnel. Xiamen has been active in promoting foreign investment and high-level talent, which can affect eligibility criteria and processing through local public security and administrative bodies.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Applying for long-term or permanent residence involves complex legal, administrative, and documentary requirements. A lawyer with experience in immigration and corporate law can help in many situations including:

- Assessing eligibility under multiple pathways - investment, employment, family reunion, or outstanding contribution - and recommending the best route.

- Structuring investments or company ownership to comply with immigration and corporate law and to strengthen an application.

- Preparing and organising supporting documents - business records, tax certificates, notarizations, legalizations, translations, and public security filings - to meet Chinese evidentiary standards.

- Dealing with local variations in policy and practice in Xiamen, including points-based talent systems and local incentives.

- Responding to requests for supplementary information, defending against refusal decisions, and handling administrative reviews or appeals.

- Coordinating with other professional advisors such as tax accountants, corporate service providers, and medical exam centres to complete the application package.

- Ensuring compliance with post-approval obligations - residence reporting, permit renewals, tax registration, and any business-monitoring requirements.

Local Laws Overview

The legal framework relevant to foreign long-term and permanent residence in Xiamen includes both national immigration law and local Xiamen and Fujian administrative policies. Key aspects to be aware of are:

- National Immigration Law Framework: The Exit and Entry Administration Law and related regulations govern visas, residence permits, and permanent residence. The National Immigration Administration and the Ministry of Public Security set standards and procedures.

- Foreigners' Permanent Residence: Permanent residence is granted under criteria such as long-term investment, stable economic contributions, sustained employment, family reunion, or exceptional contributions. Requirements and evidentiary standards are stringent and subject to national-level approval with local processing.

- R-type Visas and Talent Policies: China issues special visas and long-term residence permits for high-level foreign talent and urgently needed professionals. Xiamen may operate a points-based talent system and offer incentives for technology, research, and investment that can facilitate residence permits.

- Investment and Company Rules: Business-related applications often rely on evidence of legitimate investment or business operation - company registration, tax filings, employment of staff, and valid business scope. Local economic development zones may have additional rules or incentives.

- Document Requirements - Notarization and Legalization: Foreign documents often need notarization and consular authentication or other recognised certification, plus certified Chinese translations. Criminal record certificates and health checks are commonly required within a specified validity period.

- Public Security Bureau (PSB) Administration: Local PSB exit-entry administrations are responsible for application intake, review, interview, and decision. They also manage residence registration and permit issuance after approval.

- Tax and Social Insurance: Residency status may trigger tax obligations and social insurance registration. Local tax bureaus and social security offices have separate rules that should be considered when planning residency via investment or employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a "Golden Visa" in Xiamen?

"Golden Visa" is not a formal Chinese legal term. In Xiamen it generally refers to pathways that allow long-term residence or permanent residence - such as permanent residence permits, R-type visas for high-level talent, or long-term residence permits linked to employment or investment. Each pathway has its own criteria and administrative process.

Who is eligible for permanent residence in China from Xiamen?

Eligibility categories usually include significant investors, long-term legal residents with stable work and tax records, family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents, and foreigners who have made outstanding contributions. Exact eligibility and evidence requirements are governed by national rules and implemented locally, so individual cases vary.

How does Xiamen’s local policy affect my application?

Xiamen may offer preferential programs for certain industries, foreign-invested projects, or highly skilled professionals. Local talent programs and economic development zone incentives can make it easier to qualify for residence permits or speed up processing. However, core legal standards remain national and final approval typically involves higher-level authorities.

What documents are typically required?

Common documents include passport, completed application forms, passport photos, proof of legal status in China, a police clearance certificate from the home country, a medical examination report, proof of investment or business registration, tax certificates, employment contracts and pay records, and notarized and translated supporting documents. Document requirements and validity periods vary, so check with the local exit-entry administration or a lawyer for current specifics.

How long does the application process take?

Processing times vary by category and case complexity. Simple long-term permits may take a few weeks to a few months. Permanent residence applications or cases requiring higher-level review can take several months to over a year. Local backlog, completeness of documentation, and additional verification can affect the timeline.

Can I apply if I own property in Xiamen?

Property ownership alone is rarely sufficient for permanent residence in China. Property can be helpful as supporting evidence of local ties, but most investment-based or talent-based pathways require additional economic contribution, company operation, employment, or qualifying income and tax history.

Will getting permanent residence affect my taxes?

Residency status can affect tax residency and reporting obligations. China taxes residents on worldwide income under certain conditions. You should consult a tax advisor or lawyer to understand your obligations in China and in your home jurisdiction before and after obtaining long-term residence.

What happens if my application is refused?

If an application is refused, administrative remedies may be available - such as applying for administrative review, filing an appeal, or bringing an administrative lawsuit depending on the grounds of refusal. A lawyer can advise on the merits of appeal and represent you in administrative procedures.

Do I need a local lawyer or can I use a lawyer from my home country?

It is highly advisable to work with a mainland China-licensed lawyer or law firm with experience in immigration and the Xiamen local practice. Foreign lawyers may advise on international aspects but cannot represent you before Chinese authorities. A local lawyer understands PSB procedures, required certifications, and local practices.

How much does it usually cost to hire a lawyer for Golden Visa matters in Xiamen?

Costs vary by firm, the complexity of the case, and the stage of engagement - initial consultation, document preparation, application filing, or appeals. Expect fees for professional services and separate fees for notarizations, translations, medical exams, police checks, and government application fees. Ask for a written fee estimate before engaging a lawyer.

Additional Resources

When seeking reliable information and administrative support in Xiamen, consider these types of resources:

- Xiamen Municipal Public Security Bureau - Exit-Entry Administration - the local office handling visa and residence permit processing.

- Fujian Provincial Public Security Bureau - may issue provincial guidance and oversee local PSB operations.

- National Immigration Administration and Ministry of Public Security - for national rules and policy updates.

- Xiamen Municipal Government - for local economic, investment, and talent policies that may affect eligibility.

- Local tax bureau and human resources and social security bureau - for tax and social insurance implications.

- Notary offices and translation service providers - for document preparation and certified translations.

- Established local law firms and immigration specialists - for legal advice, application support, and representation.

- Embassies and consulates - for information on obtaining required documents from your home country such as police certificates and notarizations.

Next Steps

If you are considering applying for long-term or permanent residence in Xiamen, follow these practical next steps:

- Initial Self-Assessment - Review your background against common eligibility categories - investment, employment, family reunion, or exceptional contribution - and list the documents you currently have.

- Consult a Local Immigration Lawyer - Book an initial consultation with a China-licensed lawyer experienced in Xiamen practice. Provide the lawyer with your documents and a clear outline of your goals.

- Prepare Documents - Coordinate notarizations, consular authentications, certified translations, medical exams, and police clearances as instructed. Start early - these steps can take several weeks.

- Consider Corporate and Tax Advice - If your application is business-related, consult corporate and tax advisors to align company structure, tax filings, and employment records with immigration requirements.

- Submit Application and Monitor Progress - Work with your lawyer to submit a complete application to the local exit-entry administration. Keep copies of all submissions and track timelines closely.

- Be Prepared for Follow-Up - Authorities may ask for additional evidence, interviews, or background checks. Respond promptly and through your lawyer to avoid delays.

- Plan for Contingencies - Discuss appeals or alternative immigration pathways with your lawyer in case of refusal or shifting local policy.

- Maintain Compliance After Approval - Understand and follow post-approval obligations including residence registration, permit renewal rules, and tax and social insurance compliance.

Final note - Immigration law and local practice change over time. This guide provides a practical overview but is not a substitute for professional legal advice tailored to your personal situation. Engage a qualified local lawyer early to protect your interests and improve your chances of a successful outcome.