Shanghai details new hukou policy

SHANGHAI: This city, with one of the strictest population controls in the country, is opening its gates wider to talent by approving hukou, or permanent residency, to experienced professionals from other provinces.

The policy, announced yesterday, marks the first time Shanghai has clearly spelled out the requirements to approve a permanent resident. Shanghai also becomes the first major city to loosen its control on the hukou system.

To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must have held a Shanghai residency certificate and have been in the city's social security system for at least seven years. Applicants must also be taxpayers, have obtained vocational qualification at medium or high levels, have never violated family planning policies, have clean credit and no criminal record.