China’s New K Visa Targets Global STEM Talent Amid AI Race
2 Min Read
The launch of the new K visa is being hailed as a landmark step in China’s bid to secure global technological leadership and attract young international talent.
Effective from 1st October, the visa will be open to international youths holding undergraduate or STEM degrees from leading global institutions, as well as early-career professionals engaged in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research. Unlike other visa categories in China, the K visa promises multiple entries, longer validity, and extended stays, with applications no longer requiring sponsorship from a local employer.
Charles Sun, founder and managing director of China Education International, described the policy as “a powerful signal that China is not only open for business but is actively and competitively seeking to attract the world’s best and brightest minds”. He added that provisions allowing spouses and children to accompany applicants could play a key role in convincing top-tier professionals to relocate long-term.
The introduction of the K visa comes as China steps up its global talent strategy to compete with the United States in fields such as artificial intelligence. A recent Studyportals report highlighted that interest in AI degrees in China rose by 88% between January and July 2025 compared with the same period in 2024, while demand for similar courses in the US dropped by 25%.
This talent race is unfolding against a backdrop of growing skills shortages. According to Harvey Nash’s Digital Leadership Report 2025, AI has created the fastest-developing tech skills gap in over 15 years, pushing companies such as Meta to offer record sign-on bonuses to secure expertise.
Despite surging interest in China, the US remains a dominant player, with international students making up 70% of full-time graduate enrolments in AI-related programmes.
Analysts suggest that whichever nation succeeds in attracting the brightest minds will not only shape the future of technology but also gain an edge in economic growth, security, and global influence.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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