The first high-end foreign talent citizen card (R) in Zhoushan. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhoushan in East China's Zhejiang province recently issued first high-end foreign talent citizen card to a foreign expert working at the Zhejiang Marine Development Research Institute, local media reported on Dec 17.

Holders of the high-end foreign talent citizen card can enjoy the same benefits as locals in public transport, healthcare, borrowing of books from Zhoushan Library, and discounted scenic spot tickets.

How to apply for the high-end foreign talent citizen card?

High-end foreign experts can make an application to the foreign expert and science and technology cooperation office of Zhoushan science and technology bureau two weeks after receiving the A-class foreigner's work permit.

After the application is approved, the applicant is required to produce a photo at a designated site with the valid passport and work permit that is valid for more than 180 days.

Spouses of high-end foreign experts can also apply for the high-end foreign talent citizen card as long as they provide their marriage certificate or notarial certification.

The Zhoushan science and technology bureau has also compiled policies concerning foreigners working in China and the introduction of foreign experts, and organized sabbaticals for foreign experts in the city to help them get better accustomed to local life.