The first Taiwan compatriot has officially settled in Fujian province following the implementation of ten new optimized exit-entry services on Jan 1. The services are designed to encourage and facilitate Taiwan residents to settle down in Fujian.

These measures, introduced by China's National Immigration Administration, aim to make it more convenient for Taiwan compatriots to live and develop their careers in Fujian.

Fujian was designated as a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council in September.

To realize this vision, China's National Immigration Administration unveiled ten new entry-exit policies on Nov 6, streamlining procedures and enhancing convenience for Taiwan compatriots residing in Fujian.

Chang Li-Chi, a researcher at Huaqiao University in Xiamen, Fujian, became the first Taiwan compatriot to settle in the province. He was granted the residence permit for Taiwan residents of the People's Republic of China by an immigration officer on Jan 1 at the Xiamen Public Security Bureau, marking the implementation of the policy.

Under the new policies, residents of Taiwan can now apply for household registration with entry-exit management departments at the county level or above in Fujian, should they choose to do so.

The approval process for these applications has been reduced from 20 working days to just 10.

Moreover, the policies offer a range of application options for Taiwan compatriots to obtain the permit, including online platforms, customs offices, and designated centers. The processing time for permit applications has also been shortened from seven working days to five.

The policies are part of a broader strategy to promote cross-Strait integrated development and peaceful reunification.