Companies and institutions would have to apply to the Guangzhou Foreign Experts Bureau for authorization before they were allowed to employ foreign experts in the city, the Guangzhou Daily reported Tuesday.

The new rule applied to all of Guangzhou's education institutions, scientific research institutes, news media, publishers, cultural and sports organizations, among others, the report said, citing a recent announcement by the bureau.

A successful application for an authorization would require a series of qualifications, the report quoted officials at the bureau as saying. An applicant must be an independent legal representative, with a professional certification.

Meanwhile, an applying company or institution is also required to produce a valid document stating the need for foreign expertise, and its ability to provide foreign employees with necessary working conditions, living facilities and personal security.

After obtaining an approval, the company or institution must obtain a work permit and a residency permit for its foreign employees upon their arrival in the city.

Foreign experts are also reminded to sign employment contracts only with authorized companies and institutions.

(Shenzhen Daily September 7, 2005)