KUALA LUMPUR - Authorities in Shenzhen are now systematically rejecting renewal applications for Category B and C foreign work permits from individuals aged 60 and above, signalling a major shift in the city’s approach to managing overseas talent.

According to recent employer guidance issued by China Briefing, the stricter policy has been implemented gradually since early this year, with age now treated as a firm eligibility threshold for permit renewals, as reported by The Macao News.

In the past, some foreign workers were able to secure extensions beyond the age of 60, provided they met documentation and compliance requirements.

However, under the current approach, earlier approvals are no longer considered precedents for new or ongoing applications.

The change affects foreign professionals holding Category B and C permits in Shenzhen. Under China’s classification system, foreign workers are grouped into three tiers: Category A for high-end talent such as senior executives, leading technical experts and recognised academics; Category B for most professional and skilled employees, including managers, engineers, researchers and teachers; and Category C for lower-skilled, short-term or quota-based roles, including interns.

For foreign employees aged over 60, the only option to continue working legally in Shenzhen is to transition to Category A status.

Employers must demonstrate that the individual meets national criteria for high-end talent and formally apply to change the employee’s permit classification.

Applicants who fail to meet Category A requirements are no longer eligible to renew their permits under Category B or C, leaving no alternative pathway for extension once their existing permits expire.

China Briefing said the move reflects a broader effort to standardise the administration of foreign talent nationwide, with Shenzhen often serving as a testing ground for tighter enforcement measures.

The guidance also noted that the policy underscores China’s focus on attracting high-level expertise while reducing reliance on older foreign professionals in mid- and lower-tier roles.

Employers in Shenzhen have been advised to review the age profiles and permit categories of their foreign staff, begin renewal planning well in advance, and incorporate age considerations into future recruitment and workforce strategies.

Failure to do so, China Briefing warned, could result in operational disruptions when affected employees’ permits approach expiry.