China has introduced a new K-visa program aimed at attracting skilled professionals in science and technology, in a move seen as a direct challenge to the United States’ dominance in recruiting global tech talent.

For Indian IT expert Vaishnavi Srinivasagopalan, who has worked in both India and the U.S., the K-visa could open new career opportunities in China. “It’s like China’s version of America’s H-1B visa,” she said, adding that the new pathway makes working abroad easier for people like her.

Beijing unveiled the K-visa last month as part of a broader push to strengthen its innovation base and close the talent gap with the U.S. Unlike China’s existing R-visa, the K-visa doesn’t require applicants to have a job offer before applying, making it more flexible and appealing to international professionals.

The rollout comes amid tightening U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump, including sharply increased H-1B visa fees, which have made the U.S. less attractive to many foreign students and workers.

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Experts say Beijing is seizing the moment to project itself as an open destination for skilled workers and investors. “China sees the U.S. immigration squeeze as a golden opportunity to welcome global talent,” said Barbara Kelemen of Dragonfly, a security intelligence firm.

However, the move has stirred debate at home, where youth unemployment remains high. Some young Chinese job seekers fear foreign professionals might add to the competition.

Despite these concerns, analysts say China’s efforts to lure overseas experts reflect its determination to lead in fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and robotics.

Source: AP