The southern metropolis of Shenzhen has eased restrictions on household registration, or "hukou," to attract more talented individuals.
A new regulation, effective Thursday, relaxed the process for applying for a hukou, which determines whether residents can access social services, including education and medical care. Restrictions on education level and technical skills were also eased. According to the 13th Five-Year Plan, Shenzhen's population will reach 14.8 million by the end of 2020. However, currently, only 3 million people are permanent residents of the city, according to government figures.
