From 1 December 2024, foreigner work-permit services moved to an integrated electronic social-security-card model. Applications, extensions, changes and cancellations are handled online; existing physical permits remain valid until renewal or modification. Original documents can still require verification, so the system should not be described as eliminating every physical step.
Foreign workers and employers applying for or maintaining work permits.
Primary: Shanghai Municipal People's Government ↗
Corroborating: State Council — integrated card report ↗
Verified 2026-08-02 · methodology