Shanghai expands talent pool with household registration changes

Graduates who earned master's degrees from research institutes and institutions of higher education in Shanghai this year and those employed at qualified institutions in the city can apply to have their hukou, or household registration, moved to the city, local authorities announced on Tuesday.

Qualified employers include Party and government departments, public institutions, social organizations and social service agencies.

They also include reputable enterprises contributing to the industrial development direction of the city with registered capital of a minimum of 1 million yuan ($149,000), according to the policy which was released by four departments, including the Shanghai education and human resources authorities.

The new policy is another step the city is taking to expand its talent pool.

Last year, the application was limited to master's degree graduates from some elite universities and personnel employed in key departments there.

A local hukou is essential for city residents in China as it grants access to public health insurance, education and the ability to purchase property.