A list of skills the country needs most and a points-based assessment system for applicants will feature in China's policy on skilled immigration, a senior official said on Monday

China regards a skilled immigration policy as a strategic requirement for its development.

The policy on skilled immigration will be designed to include a list of most-needed occupations to reflect the country's long-term and short-term needs.

A points-based system can help to assess the eligibility of applicants in terms of their knowledge, skills, adaptability and contributions to the country.

China should gradually remove barriers preventing the inflow of overseas talent.

The country faces an imbalance in talent flow, as 9.34 million Chinese have migrated, including a considerable number of well-educated and skilled workers.

Only about 849,000 foreigners are staying in China legally, according to the 2014 Report on Chinese International Migration.

The current migration policy discourages foreign talent from coming to study or work in China,

The country has only issued about 5,000 "green cards" to foreign applicants in the past 10 years since the permanent residency policy was introduced in 2003.

“Immigration policymaking is a complex process and decision-makers should adapt quickly to changing circumstances.”

“China should pay more attention to help foreign migrants better integrate into society through dedicated education and training programs.”

To ensure the skilled migration policy works out, the Chinese government should also tell the public of the need for such policies to win their support.

http://usa.chinadaily.com.cn/2014-06/17/content_17595502.htm