As the US tightens its immigration rules, China is opening its doors wider for young professionals. Beijing has announced a new ‘K visa’ for international science and technology talent. The visa, signed into law by Premier Li Qiang, will come into effect on October 1, according to state media agency Xinhua.

The new category adds to China’s existing 12 ordinary visa types and is designed to make it easier for skilled foreigners to enter and stay in the country.

As the US tightens its immigration rules, China is opening its doors wider for young professionals. Beijing has announced a new ‘K visa’ for international science and technology talent.

Unlike many existing visa types, applicants will not need an invitation from a domestic employer. Instead, they must meet the eligibility rules set by Chinese authorities and provide supporting documents.

China said the move was meant to strengthen its global talent strategy.
“The country’s development requires the participation of talent from around the world, and China’s development also provides opportunities for them,” officials said.

The government added that the K visa would promote international cooperation and exchanges among young science and technology professionals.

This step is part of China’s broader push to relax visa restrictions. By the end of July 2025, China had unilateral or mutual visa-free agreements with 75 countries.

The National Immigration Administration reported that foreign nationals made 38.05 million trips to or from China in the first six months of 2025, a rise of 30.2% from last year. Of these, 13.64 million trips were visa-free, showing a sharp 53.9% increase compared to 2024.

US tightens H-1B visa rules

US President Donald Trump announced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applications. The new rule applies to all petitions filed after September 21, 2025, including those for the FY2026 lottery.

“This is an important, initial, and incremental step to reform the H-1B visa programme to curb abuses and protect American workers,” said the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in a new FAQ document.

The H-1B programme has been a key route for international graduates to remain in the US after finishing school. India has been the biggest beneficiary, with 71% of approved visas last year, while China was second with 11.7%.

While the US tightens its doors, China is positioning itself as a destination for young global professionals. The contrast between Trump’s six-figure visa fee and Beijing’s new K visa could shift choices for many ambitious graduates looking for opportunities abroad.