Expatriates can apply for resident permit extensions online as part of five new services, the Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration said.

Starting on January 2, foreigners can submit an online application and then bring all required documents to the administration’s office in the Pudong New Area on the appointed date. Residence permits will then be issued within one hour.

Chinese will be allowed to apply for passports online. However, they can go to any entry-exit offices around the city.

Online applications will shorten wait times. Shanghai residents will now get their passports within an average of seven weekdays, compared to 10 previously. People from out of town will receive their passport within 15 days now instead of 30.

Taiwan residents will be allowed to apply online for the Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents. The permits will be ready within four workdays, one day less than now.

Residents who have traveled to Taiwan can apply for another visit at self-serve machines at entry-exit offices around the city.

This service is currently only available to people who want to visit Hong Kong or Macau again.

For further information, people can visit http://crj.police.sh.cn/eemis_tydic/