China will replace green cards issued to foreigners with “smart card” versions beginning in July. Under the new directive from the Ministry of Public Security, holders of foreigners’ permanent residence cards can apply to renew the current permits with a new one embedded with a readable chip that contains identity information. The card can be swiped at various government agencies and institutions, making it easier and faster for foreigners to carry out some procedures such as buying train tickets. The introduction of the new green card is part of efforts by the government to attract more skilled foreigners to settle in China. In the 10 years after 2004 when the green card scheme was introduced, 7,356 foreigners have been granted permanent residency, even though more than 900,000 foreigners were working in China last year. The number of cards issued has risen recently, with 1,576 foreigners approved for permanent residency last year, 163% more than in 2015. But many green card holders still view the document as merely symbolic rather than of practical use. Many officials do not recognize the card. The Ministry of Public Security said it is aware of the issue and would rename it the Foreigner’s Permanent Residence Identity Card. The new name, in both Chinese and English, would be printed on the card. Zhang Jianguo, Director of the Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, said that foreign talent was an “indispensable source” of the nation’s innovation strategy.