The Sixth Session of Zhejiang University “Guiding Horizon” International Faculty Salon Series was Successfully Held

On June 6, 2025, Zhejiang University’s (ZJU) Zijingang Campus successfully hosted the sixth session of the “Guiding Horizon” International Faculty Salon Series on the third floor of Alumni Building Zijingang campus. The session centered on themes of latest developments in exit-entry immigration policies and employment of high-level talents, application for permanent resident permits, foreign exchange facilities by Bank of China, taxation, refund process and ZJU financial services. International faculty and staff members over 12 countries from diverse academic disciplines attended the event.

Deputy Director of the HR department Gao Jie opened the session with a warm welcome to the delegation. In her opening remarks, she emphasized the importance of the event in enhancing international faculty’s understanding of recent policy and services concerning immigration, bank exchange, individual tax declaration procedures, and institutional financial services. She expressed hope that the salon would serve as a valuable platform to clarify processes and promote service transparency for the ZJU international community.

Ma Yichao, Police Officer at Hangzhou Entry-Exit border inspection departments briefly presented topics, including the visa-free transit policy, online customs declarations, and self-service clearance systems. All of these are part of the 240-hour transit visa exemption policy, which was officially implemented on December 17, 2024. Under this policy, eligible citizens from 54 countries are permitted visa-free entry into China through any of 60 designated ports in 24 provinces and stay within specified areas for up to 240 hours. To improve accessibility and user experience, the visa-free transit application process has been fully digitized and is now available in multiple languages. Additionally, features such as QR code scanning at entry points and simplified printing services highlight China’s continued efforts to welcome international visitors and attract global talent.

Officer Li Kehui, from the Hangzhou Exit-Entry Immigration Office, delivered a presentation focused on policy package for visa and residence permit application procedures. She elaborated on eligibility for China’s “Green Card” or the prestigious Five-Star Card, with special reference to faculty based in Hangzhou Chengxi Science and Techonology Innovation Corridor. Officer Li detailed the submission process, supporting documentation, and the strategic importance of this policy in retaining global talent.

A representative from the Bank of China introduced foreign exchange purchase services for foreign workers in China and briefly discussed documents required in individual salary purchase foreign exchange. The presentation emphasized streamlined services across major branches in Bank of China, featuring real-time currency conversion, competitive exchange rates, and dual-track processing systems catering to both individuals and institutions. The presentation also introduced enhanced compliance oversight, digital platforms, and quota management mechanisms, all together ensuring secure and efficient foreign exchange operations for international clients.

Ms. Wang Weiding from ZJU General Administration Office, Financial Department introduced interpretation of Individual Income Tax Policy”. She highlighted individual income tax calculation (tax rates 3%–45%), app-based annual tax declarations and tax exemption standards for international faculty. Ms. Shui Tiantian, from ZJU, Financial Information Technology Management Office, briefly introduced ZJU financial systems and its uses. Ms. Li Ruimin, Zijingang West Accounting Sub-Center, Financial Department introduced frequently used financial reimbursement regulations.

During the Q&A session, faculty raised concerns about tax deductions, service accesses, and airport biometrics. All questions were addressed professionally, and contact details were exchanged to facilitate follow-up consultations and support for the international academic community. This salon series not only deepened foreign teachers' understanding of China's relevant policies but also highlighted ZJU's ongoing commitment to enhancing its international service framework.