China launches K-visa to attract global tech talent as US H-1B rules tighten

China is moving to attract global science and technology professionals through a new K-visa programme, which has begun drawing attention from skilled workers, including those from India. The scheme, introduced last month, is being widely viewed as Beijing’s answer to the US H-1B visa, especially at a time when US immigration norms have become stricter.

For professionals like Vaishnavi Srinivasagopalan, an Indian IT specialist who has worked in both India and the US, China could now be a viable alternative. She says the K-visa’s flexible terms, notably, the ability to apply without having a confirmed job offer



make it an appealing option for those exploring global opportunities.

The K-visa is meant to complement China’s existing talent visas, such as the R-visa, but comes with fewer entry barriers. The move aligns with Beijing’s broader push to compete with the US in high-tech innovation, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, semiconductors and robotics.

Experts say China sees the current uncertainty surrounding the H-1B system in the US, including increased fees and stricter eligibility checks, as an opportunity to position itself as more welcoming to foreign talent.