Recently, the General Office of People's Government of Sichuan Province issued the Regulations for Application of Residence Permit for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Residents (hereinafter referred to as "the Regulations"). According to the Regulations, Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents who have lived in the province for six months or more, providing they meet certain other requirements such as having stable jobs and accommodation or studying in the province, are eligible to apply for a residence permit. And the application is voluntary. For Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents who are under 16 years old, their guardians can apply for the residence permit on their behalf.

　　Under the Regulations, the public security agencies shall issue the residence card to those who apply for the card or renewal of the old one, or those who apply for a new one in about 20 working days upon acceptance. Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents engaged in relevant activities in the province have the right to use the residence card when asked to present identity certificate, and relevant agencies and individuals shall acknowledge such document for identification.  

　　Holders of the “Residence Permit” for Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan residents are entitled to employment as well as participation in social insurance and housing fund schemes. In addition, people's governments at or above the county level and relevant departments shall provide the following basic public services to holders of the residence permit for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents: compulsory education in the place of residence; free policy advice, occupational guidance, job introduction, employment and unemployment registration, and employment information inquiry provided by public service agency for employment; same access to public health service such as health record, health education, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, children's preventive vaccination, maternity and child care, as well as health management for the elderly and patients with hypertension and diabetes; free access to public cultural and sports services such as public libraries, museums, cultural centers, memorial halls, art galleries, sports venues and venues for the display and teaching of intangible cultural heritage; legal services such as legal aid;  other basic public services granted by the state and the place of residence.