Not everyone needs the green card — for most people a long-term residence permit (1-5 years, renewable) is the more realistic path.
Work residence: the most common. Enter on a Z visa, then convert to a work-type residence permit valid 1-5 years, renewed with your contract. Foreign teachers, engineers and executives all fall here.
Study residence: X-visa holders get a study-type permit tied to their program; after graduation you can transfer to work residence (with an employer) or apply for the 2-year post-graduation stay piloted in some cities.
Private affairs residence (S): for accompanying family (spouse, children, parents), tied to the main applicant's status.
Retirement/long-term family visits: some cities run "family reunion" schemes for ethnic Chinese and those married to Chinese citizens; Hainan, the Greater Bay Area and others pilot talent and retirement policies.
Key reminder: apply to renew 30 days before each permit expires. Overstaying is illegal residence and can jeopardize future applications.
