China aims to capitalize on the restrictions imposed by the US government on the H-1B visa foreign workers hiring program.
From October 1, 2025, China will launch a new ‘K Visa’ aimed at attracting foreign young science and technology talent.
China’s launch of the K Visa comes at a time when the Trump administration is making it tougher for US companies to hire foreign workers via the H-1B visa program.
$100,000 H-1B Fee
Starting the 2026 H-1B visa season, US companies will be required to pay a one-time fee of $100,000 for filing a petition to hire a worker from overseas.
H-1B visas are sought-after work permits by highly skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations, enabling them to move to the US, settle with a green card, and eventually obtain U.S. citizenship.
After the H-1B visa fee increase, which ranges from $1,000 to $100,000, the likelihood of foreign workers securing job offers from US companies has significantly diminished.
At a time when other nations are restricting immigration, China, with its K Visa, is sending a different message: ‘qualified talent is welcome here’. This could boost China’s ‘soft power’ among global youth in science and technology.
China’s K Visa
The biggest attraction of K Visas is that the application process will not require a sponsor or Chinese employer. There will only be requirements related to the age, education, or work experience of applicants.
K visas will be issued to young foreign scientific and technological professionals who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree or above in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) from renowned universities or research institutions in China or abroad, or who are engaged in relevant professional education or research at such institutions.
K visa applicants have to meet the conditions and requirements for young foreign scientific and technological talents. The K Visa requirements will be set by the relevant competent authorities of the Chinese Government.
The K visa will offer greater convenience to holders in terms of the number of entries, validity period, and length of stay.
Upon entry, holders can engage in educational, scientific, and cultural exchanges, as well as entrepreneurship and business activities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with relevant agencies, is expected to publish K Visa guidelines before October 1 about detailed application procedures, required supporting documents, and the possibility of online submissions.