Statistics from the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau show that by March, some 13,000 foreigners have registered to make their permanent residence in Shenzhen, accounting for half of the total number in Guangdong province. Nine foreigners are expected to become the first batch to obtain their "green card" in Shenzhen.

In 2004, Shenzhen started to accept foreigners' application for such "green cards" and so far, 21 foreigners residing in Shenzhen have made their applications. Head of the Entry and Exit Management department of the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau Wang Deming revealed recently that they had approved nine applications, although it might take some time before all the administrative procedures are completed.

Wang said that a growing number of foreigners coming to Shenzhen year on year to make investment, do business, work or study in the city. They come from 111 countries and mainly belong to four categories: representatives of foreign business enterprises, those working in joint venture companies, those working in educational and cultural fields, and foreign students. Available statistics show that in 2005, 3.4 million foreigners arrive in Shenzhen through port, increasing 17% than 2004.
 
Editor: Yan