SHANGHAI has introduced a special card for high-level talent that puts them on par with local residents even before they get their permanent residence permits.

With the card, they can make appointments, seek consultations and enjoy priority while applying for administrative approval and certificates. The cards can be used to enroll children into local schools, help family members applying for local permits, housing subsidies and other governmental benefits. The all-purpose card was introduced after being tested out in Putuo District two years ago.

The announcement was made at a ceremony over the weekend to issue certificates to 115 new members of the city's Thousand Talent Program and to establish a scientific and technological innovation center for overseas returnees.