Selected foreign nationals can apply for visas lasting up to five years under a new regulation, Xinhua News Agency reported on Dec 11.

Five top-level administrations, including the ministries of human resources and social security and public security, have published rules aimed at giving foreign residents more privileges.

According to the report, under the new regulation overseas experts can get visas of two to five years. The current maximum is two years.

Foreign spouses and children of Chinese elites returning to the country can also receive long-term visas and residency permits, according to the regulation.

Meanwhile, overseas experts will also enjoy a "green channel" that ensures their visa application is handled in a quick and convenient way, Xinhua reported.

The ministries said the regulation will attract more foreign elites to China and enrich the country's policy of talent introduction, the report added.