China this week launches its new “K visa” programme aimed at attracting young foreign STEM graduates, offering entry, residence, and work rights without the need for a job offer. The move comes just as the U.S. introduces a steep new $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visas, creating incentives for skilled workers to look elsewhere.
Immigration experts said the visa could appeal to Indian and other STEM professionals frustrated by U.S. sponsorship and lottery requirements. Analysts noted the timing as symbolic: while Washington is raising barriers, Beijing is lowering them to project openness amid trade tensions and slowing growth.
Still, hurdles remain. China’s language and cultural barriers, vague eligibility requirements, and limited citizenship pathways could blunt the programme’s appeal. Other countries including South Korea, Germany and New Zealand are also competing with looser visa policies.
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K visa vs. K pop:
