Beijing’s household registration system gets a makeover

Beijing will launch its first points-based application system for permanent urban resident's permits on Monday, according to the capital's Human Resources and Social Security Bureau.

The system, which is aimed at stabilizing their living situations of nonnative residents, will be open to applicants once a year, the authority said on Wednesday.

Points will be granted based on factors including age, educational level and entrepreneurial ability, among others.

The first round for applications will run from Monday until June 14, with applicants able to register and fill out online forms on the bureau's website.

Applicants need to meet four preconditions: They must possess a Beijing residence permit, be below retirement age (under 55 for women, 60 for men), have made social security contributions for the past seven years, and have a clean criminal record.

The system is part of an overall reform of the household registration process.

Plans to introduce a points-based application system were first announced in August 2016, with a view to guaranteeing people's legal rights and attracting talented nonnative residents who want to live in the capital long term.