Ningbo launches 'Join in Card' for expats

[Video/Ningbo Evening News]

Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has launched the "Join in Card", which is a new all-in-one service card simplifying expat life in China by consolidating essential services like work permits, social security, and transportation into one card.

Dave Towey, deputy head of the School of Computer Science at the University of Nottingham-Ningbo, was the first recipient of the card in Ningbo on Feb 21. He immediately tested the card by using it on the subway, where he was able to swipe and board without buying a temporary ticket, not to mention enjoying discounts.

The "Join in Card" is part of a broader reform to integrate services for foreign nationals in China. This new card merges work permits, social security, and other key services into one package, eliminating the need for separate work permits and social security cards. It provides expats access to a wide range of services, including government services, healthcare, public transport, and retail benefits.

According to the Ningbo bureau of human resources and social security, the card allows expats to handle administrative tasks across 19 departments, make medical payments at local healthcare facilities, and use public transport in cities nationwide. This integration has significantly reduced processing times and costs, improving convenience for international workers.

Ningbo has seen a growing international population, with over 7,700 foreign residents recorded in 2024. As a hub for international trade and economic development, the city continues to attract international talent.

Towey, who has lived in Ningbo for years, said that the "Join in Card" helps him feel more integrated into the community and offers the same public service benefits as local residents.