Foreign professionals, looking to work and live in Beijing, have more reasons to make the city home after the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security unveiled new measures to attract expats at the China International Fair for Trade in Services 2023.

　　The latest edition of the Beijing Foreign Vocational Qualifications Approval Catalogue (BFVQAC) (Version 3.0) covers 122 international vocational qualifications. Notably, seven of these qualifications fall under the "Urgent Shortage Catalogue."

　　In addition, the "Catalogue of Human Resources Development for the National Integrated Demonstration Zone for Expanding Opening-up in the Services Sector and the China (Beijing) Pilot Free Trade Zone (Version 2023)" identifies 15 important sectors, including chip design and financial technology services. It also identified 18 occupations, such as pharmaceutical industry workers and optical instrument testers.

　　Originally introduced in 2021, the BFVQAC has undergone two revisions. Version 3.0 expands its coverage to 12 key areas, including science and technology, finance, and new-generation information technology.

　　These certificates are recognized in 15 countries and regions, including UK, the U.S., international organizations and renowned industry associations.

　　In Version 3.0, the age limit for work permit applications has been raised to 65 years, regardless of education, degree or work experience. In some advanced industries, this age limit is further extended to 70 years.

　　Meanwhile, the city offers six upgraded services for individuals with skills listed as urgently needed in the catalogue. Foreigners can apply for a "Confirmation Letter for High-Level Foreign Talents," which grants entry and exit privileges. They can also apply for visa documents and permanent residence based on their high-level talent status.