Overview

• Effective October 1, the K visa targets young science and technology professionals and removes the need for a local employer sponsor.
• Reporting describes a typical applicant as roughly 18–45 with at least a STEM bachelor’s from a well-regarded institution, but work rights, duration, fees, and eligible school lists remain unconfirmed.
• Weibo discussions surged to massive view counts, featuring job-competition worries and xenophobic comments, especially toward Indian nationals, prompting defenses from People’s Daily and Global Times.
• CNN found application portals at several Chinese embassies not yet active during the national holiday, and the Foreign Ministry has said missions abroad will detail requirements.
• Analysts link the rollout to talent competition with the United States after a new $100,000 H-1B fee, while experts warn language barriers, work culture, and China’s political climate could limit uptake despite a stated domestic talent gap.