China is launching a new K visa category on October 1, aimed at attracting young STEM professionals globally, including from Kenya. This initiative follows a State Council resolution signed by Premier Li Qiang, offering significant opportunities for independent researchers, entrepreneurs, and students.

• The K visa will offer greater flexibility in terms of permitted entries, duration of stay, and overall validity compared to existing Chinese visa types.
• Applicants will not be required to have a domestic Chinese employer or host institution.
• This move is a major boost for Kenya's STEM pathway, facilitating collaboration between Kenyan innovators and Chinese institutions.