A new regulation will allow foreigners who have permanent residence in China to share the same rights and duties as Chinese nationals with the exception of political rights and duties, according to a December 11 statement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

The regulation, jointly created by 25 ministerial-level departments, says that permanent foreign residents will be granted national treatment in terms of employment, investment, purchasing homes, gaining professional titles and obtaining an education for their children.

According to the regulation, children of foreigners who possess permanent residence cards will be able to enjoy compulsory education in their place of residence.

Permanent foreign residents will also be able to enjoy social insurance and purchase homes using publicly accumulated housing funds, the regulation says.