A People's Republic of China foreign permanent resident ID card. [Photo/WeChat account: GZWS411665430]

Permanent residence is a kind of foreigner's residence qualification. Usually, a country's government allows foreigners who meet certain conditions to reside permanently in their country according to its own laws and regulations.

A permanent resident is still a foreigner and not a citizen of their country of residence. As a result, they do not enjoy citizenship of their country of residence.

Foreigners who have obtained permanent residence in China can enter or leave China by presenting valid passports and permanent residence certificates. They do not have to go through additional procedures, such as obtaining a visa.

Special personnel, employees, investors, accompanying family members, and foreigners who need to reunite with their Chinese relatives can apply for permanent residence in China.

Foreigners with permanent residence qualification in China may apply for a replacement or reissue of their permanent residence cards if the content of their permanent residence cards has changed or if their cards have been damaged or lost.

Permanent residents who want to become Chinese citizens must apply for naturalization and obtain government approval.